Last updated: 13 July 2023
Previously: 2 July 2021
If you're familiar with the area around us, then you'll know that many visitors are drawn to North Wales for its water-based activities. When you stay at one of our North Wales Cottages and you want a thrilling experience on rapids, lagoons and rivers less than an hour's drive from our base, you'll find plenty of venues to explore.
Most, if not all the activities listed will need to be pre-booked so use our blog as a useful guide for getting in touch with each centre, or at the very least, take a quick glance to give you some ideas about what there is to do in the local area.
White water rafting at Llangollen
At Llangollen, lying east of Corwen and only a 15 minute drive away you can enjoy white river rafting with the White Water Warriors on the River Dee. So if you stay at one of our North Wales Cottages, this is something for everyone!
For the whole family (children must be 8 and upwards), you can book the 'White Water Rafting Experience', conquering the Serpents Tail and Town Falls as you raft down the river. Full safety briefings are given before you venture out and all safety equipment is included. For those who enjoy a slower pace (and who don't wish to get wet) you can view the rafters from Llangollen bridge.
The 'River Bugs Experience' is for children 12 and above - you take on the rapids on your very own raft (or River Bug). The venue has changing rooms and shower facilities too - so you can change and then enjoy refreshments at the Riverbanc cafe on site. Remember to be practical; bring a change of clothes, a towel, swimming costume and no flip-flops! Laced up trainers are required.
Rapid Horizons Outdoor Adventure also offer a half day experience on the River Dee at Llangollen. You can book kayaking, canoeing, rafting and tubing - a pub lunch is included to give you enough energy to stay the course!
Paddleboarding with your dog
At Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Coed Y Glyn Farm, Glyndyfrdwy, near Corwen, there's a range of activities from white water rafting to paddleboarding - on flat and white water. The centre also enables you to experience paddle boarding with your four legged friend! Remember to bring doggy treats, water, a towel and a snack for your dog. Only one canine on the paddleboard at any one time though please!
Water based activities at Bala Lake
The Bala Adventure and Watersports Centre offers canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, white water rafting and powerboating. On land activities include mountain biking, climbing and abseiling, archery and camp craft so the centre can cater for all whims and tastes.
Based in Snowdonia National Park, Bala Lake is the location for all the activities - courses are also available. The white water rafting takes place on the dam which feeds into Bala Lake and for those who enjoy a calmer, water activity there are boat trips you can book to enjoy the Bala Lake in much calmer conditions!
Surfing in Snowdonia, North Wales
Looking for a different experience when you stay at one of our North Wales Cottages? Why not visit Adventure Parc Snowdonia? Based at Dolgarrog, Conwy, the manmade lagoon provides a range of water sports and activities. If you enjoy surfing (tuition can be booked) you can ride the manmade waves. Beginners, intermediaries and advanced surfers have their own zones. Children as young as 5 ('Little Rippers') can enjoy the fun but a non-surfing adult will need to join them in the water.
Standup paddleboarding (you can chose to stand or kneel) is also on offer for children 8 and upwards. Open water swimming sessions can also be booked in advanced for a small fee. A floatation device is provided and wetsuit hire is available. For the open water swimming you must be 16 and over.
The centre also provides indoor activities - climbing, rope walking, a giant soft play area (for adults and children) and caving. If you fancy staying out in the open air, there's always the zip line which runs across the lagoon and offers fantastic views.
