Why is Bala Special?

Don’t take our word for it – official recognition by organisations or experts

The largest Welsh Cake in the World, made in Bala - certified by Guinness World Records

Things to do:

• North Wales: 4th in Lonely Planet's Top 10 Regions in The World!
• Canoe on the largest natural lake in Wales or walk around the lake
• Walk on the well-marked networks of path of a "Walkers are Welcome" town - officially recognised
• Swim in the lake the venue for open water swimming championships and triathlons including national selection
• Rafting and canoeing at the National WhiteWater Centre - canoe world championships venue
• Take a scenic ride, along the lake on the Best Small Railway 2012
• Cycle or drive over Bwlch y Groes the highest road pass in Wales
• Take a scenic drive over the Berwyn mountains to Pistyll Rhaeadr - the highest waterfall in Wales
• Cycle over challenging routes at the home of the Wild Wales challenge
• Visit Caerau Uchaf Gardens the highest garden open to the public in Wales and featured in "The Finest Gardens in Wales" by Tony Russell
• Visit Mary Jones World, awarded the "Best Told by Story" VisitWales
• Stargazing: Snowdonia is an International Dark Sky Reserve

Wildlife in abundance:

• Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid)  is a Ramsar wetlands site of international importance
• The home of the Gwyniad - a species of whitefish, which is unique to the area
• The lake shoreline is the only UK location where the glutinous snail is found
• The River Tryweryn is one of the few places in the UK where freshwater pearl mussels exist.
• The Lamprey, a rare eel-like fish is also found in the River Tryweryn

Sleep well:

• Bryniau Golau Bed & Breakfast - Winner of The Good Hotel Guide, The Best Welsh Guest House of the year, 'César' award and voted 2nd in the Sunday Times Ultimate 100 British Hotels, B&B section
• Palé Hall - not just special but unique!
• David Bellamy Gold Award - Bala Caravan Park
• Best Place to Stay – Holiday, Touring or Camping Park: Pen y Garth Lodge Park
• Rivercatcher Holiday Cottages - Silver Award National Tourism awards for Wales

Eat well:

• Michelin Star Restaurant at Tyddyn Llan
• Palé Hall: exectuvive Chef Michael Caines aims for two Michelin Stars

Shop without effort:

• Traditional shops including the "Best Butcher in Wales"

Don't just take our word for it - look at these independent recommendations:

• More about Bala
• Restaurants in Bala
• Hotels in Bala
• Things to do in Bala