Your Ultimate Guide to North Wales' Most Instagrammable Spots
Snowdonia (Eryri) is one of the most visually striking regions in the UK, offering a rich mix of waterfalls, mountain scenery, woodland and distinctive landmarks. Whether you enjoy landscape photography, capturing moments on your phone, or simply exploring beautiful places, the locations below showcase some of the most memorable and photogenic spots within easy reach of Betws-y-Coed and Hendre Rhys Gethin.
The locations below have been chosen for their distinctive scenery, accessibility and visual appeal throughout the year. If you’re planning a trip, our luxury holiday lodges and cottages in Betws-y-Coed make an ideal base for visiting many of these locations.
Llyn Elsi - Quiet Reflections
Just over a mile from Betws-y-Coed, Llyn Elsi is a tranquil lake surrounded by woodland. In calm weather the surface becomes a mirror for the sky and trees, offering peaceful reflections that work well for dawn and dusk shots. This spot is particularly beautiful in soft morning light and late afternoon when the colours are warm and gentle. Tip: This location is particularly rewarding early in the morning or late in the day when the light is softer and the lake is calm.
Fairy Glen Gorge - Moss and Movement
Only a short distance from the village, Fairy Glen Gorge feels like entering a natural cathedral of mossy rocks and flowing water. The interplay of light and shadow over the river and rock formations makes it a great location for atmospheric images, especially on overcast days when colour and detail stand out. Tip: Overcast days work especially well here, bringing out the texture and colour of the rock and water.
Swallow Falls - Dramatic Water Scenes
A couple of miles from the centre, Swallow Falls is one of the most striking waterfalls in the region. The layered cascades create movement and texture in photos, and you can capture both wide landscape views and close-up drops. The falls are impressive after rainfall when the water is at its fullest, but still beautiful at gentler flows. Tip: The falls are most dramatic after rainfall, though quieter early morning visits allow more space for photography.
Tu Hwnt I'r Bont - Historic Bridge Charm
This fifteenth-century stone building beside the River Conwy is a favourite with photographers for its character and surrounding greenery. In spring and summer it is wrapped in lush foliage, and in later seasons the colours change, offering a different mood to each visit. Tip: Seasonal foliage changes the character of this spot throughout the year, making repeat visits worthwhile.
Llynnau Mymbyr - Twin Lake Panorama
About six miles from Betws-y-Coed, the twin lakes of Llynau Mymbyr offer wide-angle views of water and mountain skyline. On still days the lakes reflect the peaks of Snowdonia (Eryri), and the open vistas lend themselves to classic panorama photography. Tip: Clear days offer wide views across the water to the surrounding peaks, making this a popular panoramic viewpoint. Tip: Early morning or still conditions offer the best chance to capture clear reflections of the surrounding mountains across the water.
Tryfan and the Glyderau - Mountain Silhouettes
Roughly nine miles away, the majestic profile of Tryfan and the surrounding Glyderau range are striking subjects for mountain photography. These peaks catch dramatic light throughout the day and are especially rewarding at sunrise or sunset for silhouette and ridge compositions. Tip: Shoot during sunrise or sunset to highlight dramatic ridge lines and create strong silhouettes against changing light.
Portmeirion - Colour, Architecture and Costal Views
Around forty minutes from Betws-y-Coed, Portmeirion is one of the most distinctive and photographed locations in North Wales. Designed in an Italianate style, the village combines colourful buildings, landscaped gardens and coastal views across the Dwyryd estuary. It offers a completely different visual experience to the forests and mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri), making it a favourite for photographers and visitors looking for something unique. Tip: Visit early or later in the day to photograph the colourful architecture and coastal views with fewer people and softer light.
