Betws Y Coed is a charming gateway to North Wales, famous for its stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and lush forests. It’s an ideal base for exploring a variety of tours that cater to different interests. Whether you’re after a scenic drive, a fun treasure hunt, or an underground adventure, Betws Y Coed offers options that highlight the region’s natural beauty and history. Personally, I love the Underground Caving Adventure — it’s a chance to follow in the footsteps of slate quarry workers and experience Wales’ industrial past firsthand, especially with challenges like climbing and abseiling that add a thrill for active visitors.
For those who prefer a more relaxed exploration, the North Wales Shore Excursion from Liverpool provides a well-rounded taste of the region’s highlights, including Conwy Castle and the picturesque village of Betws-Y-Coed. This tour offers a perfect day out for cruise travelers wanting to see both coast and countryside, all in one seamless trip. Meanwhile, the Snowdonia Treasure Hunt App adds a modern twist—turns out, discovering Snowdonia’s secrets can be just as fun with a smartphone in hand.
1. Liverpool North Wales explorer Shore Excursion StandardTour
At number 1, the Liverpool North Wales explorer Shore Excursion is a good choice for travelers arriving by cruise and wanting a full day of sightseeing. Starting from Liverpool, this 7-hour trip covers some of North Wales’ most iconic sights. The tour includes a stop at Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 13th century, renowned for its well-preserved walls and towers—perfect for history buffs eager to see medieval Wales firsthand. Then, you’ll continue to the charming village of Betws-Y-Coed, known as the “capital of North Wales,” offering quaint shops, cafes, and beautiful river scenery. The scenic drive through Denbigh Moors showcases the rugged beauty of the Welsh countryside, providing excellent photo opportunities.
This tour’s highlights include a coastal drive with views of the Irish Sea and a visit to St Asaph, one of Britain’s smallest cities. The itinerary is well-paced, giving you approximately two hours in Conwy and an hour in Betws-Y-Coed. Priced at $88 per person, reviews are solid, with a 3.8/5 rating from five travelers. While it doesn’t have the same exclusivity or personalized touch as private guides, it offers a reliable, rundown suitable for first-timers or cruise visitors seeking convenience and variety.
Bottom line: This tour balances cultural sights and scenic drives, making it a solid pick for those with limited time who want a taste of North Wales’ highlights.
$88 per person
2. Snowdonia Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass)
Number 2 on our list offers a completely different experience—an interactive, self-guided treasure hunt designed to uncover Snowdonia’s lesser-known spots. For $34.41 per group (up to 10 people), this 7-day pass lets you explore at your own pace using a dedicated app. You won’t need to carry guidebooks or gather tickets; simply start the game on your phone, follow the map, and visit hundreds of pins with clues and challenges. It’s perfect for families or groups who want a hands-on, engaging way to discover Snowdonia’s secret corners.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility and focus on finding off-the-beaten-path sights, all while enjoying friendly competition. You can complete challenges to earn points and climb the leaderboard, making it a fun activity for tech-savvy travelers who prefer independence. It’s a low-cost option that encourages exploration beyond typical tourist spots, and reviews note its effectiveness at revealing hidden areas. Plus, since no guide is needed, it’s accessible to almost anyone.
Bottom line: This self-guided treasure hunt is ideal if you’re comfortable with smartphones and want a tailored, interactive way to explore Snowdonia’s lesser-known wonders.
3. Betws-y-Coed: Underground Caving Adventure in Snowdonia
Lastly, for the adventure seekers, the Underground Caving Adventure in Snowdonia is the most immersive and physically engaging tour, earning a perfect 5/5 review score. This 5-hour experience takes you into the slate caverns and tunnels that once powered Wales’ industrial growth. You’ll explore the underground world with a headlamp, walking along tunnels, climbing ladders, and navigating narrow passages—just like the quarrymen did over a century ago.
What sets this tour apart is the variety of optional challenges, including abseiling, climbing, ziplining, and even a boat crossing within the caves. The guide shares fascinating stories about the history and culture of slate mining, making this more than just a physical challenge; it’s a chance to connect with Wales’ industrial heritage in a very tangible way. The tour is suitable even for mixed-ability groups, as activities can be adapted to comfort levels.
Reviewers praise the authenticity and excitement, with one noting, “It was the most fun I’ve had underground.” The experience is ideal for active travelers or those with a sense of adventure seeking a memorable, hands-on experience in Snowdonia.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled, historically rich experience and don’t mind getting a little muddy, this underground caving adventure is the top choice.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Betws Y Coed
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time frame, and interests. The North Wales Shore Excursion is perfect if you want a guided, all-in-one day trip with historical sites and scenic drives. The Treasure Hunt App suits independent explorers who enjoy tech and discovery, especially if you’re traveling with kids or a competitive spirit. For a physically active and immersive experience, the Underground Caving Adventure delivers a memorable adventure into Wales’ industrial past.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the underground tour, which can fill up quickly. Think about the type of experience you want—whether it’s a relaxing scenic drive, a fun and tech-savvy exploration, or an adrenaline-pumping underground adventure. Each of these tours offers something unique, so pick the one that best matches your travel style.
In summary, Betws Y Coed’s diverse offerings make it a versatile destination for every type of traveler. For a rundown, the guided North Wales Shore Excursion is great for first-timers, while the Snowdonia Treasure Hunt appeals to those who love a challenge. For active adventurers, the Underground Caving trip provides a memorable way to connect with Wales’ rich mining history. Whichever you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.