On the edge of the Snowdonia National Park sits the market town of Dolgellau on the River Wnion.

The town is located just north of the scenic coastline of Cardigan Bay but also within close reach of the dramatic beauty of Snowdonia’s mountain landscapes. The hill walking in the Mawddach Valley, which Dolgellau sits in, is some of Wales’ best and the views of mountains of the Cader Idris range are just as spectacular in winter as they are in the colourful blooms of spring and summer.

Around 2,600 people live in Dolgellau, which dates back at least as far as the 12th century. The picturesque ruins of Cymer Abbey just outside Dolgellau were part of a church that was founded in 1198 and Welsh ruler Owain Glyndwr held the last Welsh Parliament there in 1404.

Dolgellau translates, rather poetically, as “Meadow of Groves” and visitors to the town will enjoy exploring the winding streets, sprawling farm fields and horse riding or cycling paths around the area. Lovers of heritage railways love to come to Dolgellau, with narrow-gauge railways running at Corris, Fairbourne and Talyllyn nearby, as well as the Great Western line running through the town.

Tourism is a central part of the town’s economy, which has in the past centered around wool, textiles and tanning. Holiday cottages in Dolgellau are an ideal place to stay if you wish to explore Snowdonia, Cardigan Bay and the beautiful Mawddach Valley.