Trains to Betws y Coed chug through the Conwy Valley over ancient bridges and past waterfalls in what is Wales' most visually arresting railway journey, before coming to a halt in this charming town. The station dates back to 1868 and at first was mostly used by freight trains carrying slate out of Snowdonia until a tourist drive saw an increase in passenger carriages. The original station building was constructed by a local stonemason and survives today.
Betws y Coed is the most popular resort in northern Wales and a gateway to the wilderness of Snowdonia National Park. Nearby landmarks include Swallow Falls, Capel Curig - the UKs' wettest place - and Capel Garmon, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic burial chamber. Staying put in the town, make a beeline for the main street of Holyhead Road, with numerous inns, B&Bs and independent shops. The 14th century church of St Michael's is one of the oldest in Wales and also worth a peek.