There’s something about a Monday evening in June that just hits differently here in Snowdonia. I’m currently sitting out on the bench at the Rhiw Goch Inn, watching the sky turn a shade of bruised purple over the Rhinogydd mountains. It’s June 22nd, and the sun won't fully tuck itself behind the peaks until nearly 10 PM.
If you’ve ever found yourself scrolling through Reddit or Findaquestion wondering, "Where is the best pub for a sunset in North Wales?" or "Where can I get a decent pint after hiking Snowdon without the tourist traps?", well, pull up a chair. I’m Peter Dive, and I’ve spent more time scouting out the local watering holes than I probably should admit (it’s "research" for our own renovation, I tell my wife Leticia).
While I'm busy restoring our 16th-century Grade 2 listed inn back to its former glory, I’ve made it my mission to know exactly where the locals go when they want to avoid the crowds but keep the views. Whether you’re staying in our Lodge House, hiding away in The Hideaway, or pitched up at our Snowdonia campsite, here is the insider’s guide to the best grub and sunset views within an hour of LL41 4UY.
1. The Home Turf: Rhiw Goch Inn, Bronaber
Address: Rhiw Goch Inn, Bronaber, Trawsfynydd, LL41 4UY
Vibe: Unbeatable sunsets and "work-in-progress" charm.
I’m biased, obviously. But you don’t have to take my word for it, just look at the photos. Our campsite and holiday lets are positioned right on the edge of the hill, meaning the sunset happens directly in front of you. Currently, we’re knee-deep in the restoration of the main 16th-century tavern (the one the fire tried to take in 2018), but the grounds are open, and the atmosphere is electric.
If you’re staying with us, you don’t even need to drive. Grab a local cider, find a spot on the grass, and watch the Rhinogydd mountains light up. It’s the perfect end to a day of mountain biking at Coed y Brenin Forest Park (LL40 2HZ), which is just a few minutes down the A470.
2. The Lakeside Local: The Cross Foxes, Trawsfynydd
Address: Trawsfynydd, Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 4SB (approx. 5 mins drive)
Vibe: Proper village pub with a lake breeze.
Just down the road in the village of Trawsfynydd, you’ll find The Cross Foxes. This is a "proper" pub. If you’ve spent the afternoon walking around Llyn Trawsfynydd or trying your hand at fishing, this is your next stop.
What I love about this place is the honesty of the food, no-nonsense, hearty portions that you actually need after a day of Welsh "fresh air" (which usually means getting rained on at least once). If you time it right, the evening light reflecting off the lake nearby is spectacular. It’s a great spot for families, too, with plenty of room for the kids to be, well, kids.
3. The Historic Gem: The Grapes Hotel, Maentwrog
Address: Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog, LL41 4HY (approx. 10 mins drive)
Vibe: 17th-century atmospheric bliss.
If you’re looking for a bit of history, The Grapes is a must. It’s one of the oldest inns in the area, tucked away in the Vale of Ffestiniog. When I’m not obsessing over the stonework at Rhiw Goch Inn, I’m usually admiring the ceiling beams here.
The terrace is a hidden secret for sunsets. Because it sits slightly lower in the valley, you get these dramatic long shadows and golden light filtering through the ancient trees. It’s incredibly romantic if you’re staying in The Hideaway and want a "date night" that feels like stepping back in time.
4. The Coastal Gateway: The Golden Fleece Inn, Tremadog
Address: Market Square, Tremadog, Porthmadog, LL49 9RB (approx. 25 mins drive)
Vibe: Bustling gastropub with a quirky edge.
If you’ve spent your Monday exploring the beaches at Black Rock Sands or Porthmadog, stop at Tremadog on your way back to Bronaber. The Golden Fleece is legendary around here.
It’s got a bit of everything: cave-like rooms, a fantastic bar, and a menu that goes way beyond standard pub fare. The square in Tremadog is a sun trap in the late afternoon. It’s where the locals gather to talk about the latest mountain biking trails or the progress of the local renovations (everyone’s a critic, right?). It’s a bit of a drive, but at 25 minutes, it’s well within our 1-hour "gold zone."
5. The Riverside Retreat: Prince Llewelyn Hotel, Beddgelert
Address: Smith St, Beddgelert, Caernarfon, LL55 4YB (approx. 30 mins drive)
Vibe: Picturesque, riverside, and dog-friendly.
Beddgelert is arguably the prettiest village in Snowdonia, and the Prince Llewelyn is right in the thick of it. If you’ve been doing the Snowdon walks (the Watkin Path is a beast!), this is the perfect place to refuel.
Sitting by the river Colwyn as the sun starts to dip behind the Moel Hebog mountain range is a core memory kind of experience. It’s very family-oriented, so if the kids are restless after a day of hiking, the riverside setting provides just enough distraction while you finish your pint.
6. The Brewpub: Snowdonia Parc Inn, Waunfawr
Address: Waunfawr, Caernarfon, LL55 4AQ (approx. 45 mins drive)
Vibe: For the craft beer nerds and train enthusiasts.
For the real enthusiasts: those who want a pint that was brewed literally ten feet from where they’re sitting: head to Waunfawr. The Snowdonia Parc Inn has its own microbrewery.
It’s also right on the Welsh Highland Railway line. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching the steam trains puff past while the evening light turns the surrounding hills bright orange. It’s a bit further out, but the drive through the heart of the national park is worth the price of petrol alone.
Why Stay with Us at Rhiw Goch?
Living and working at Rhiw Goch Inn isn't just about providing a bed; it's about sharing this incredible corner of Wales. When people ask me why they should choose a holiday in North Wales over somewhere else, I just point to the horizon.
Our location in Bronaber means you are centrally located. You can head to the coast in 20 minutes, be at the foot of Snowdon in 30, or be tearing up the trails at Coed y Brenin in 5. And after all that? You come back to a place where the air is quiet, the underfloor heating in The Lodge House is warm, and the sunset is all yours.
Peter’s Pro-Tips for your June Visit:
- Book Ahead: Even though these are "secrets," Snowdonia is popular in June. If you’re heading to The Grapes or The Golden Fleece, give them a ring.
- The A470 is your Friend: We are perfectly positioned on the A470. It’s the artery of Wales and makes getting to these pubs a breeze.
- Check the Weather: A "Snowdonia Sunset" is 10/10 when the sky is clear, but if the mist rolls in, pivot to a pub with a fireplace (like The Grapes).
- Stay Local: Don't feel like you have to drive every night. Some of my best nights have been spent right here on our campsite with a disposable BBQ and the Rhinogydd mountains for company.
If you’re planning your next adventure, come and see what we’re building here. We’re restoring history, one stone at a time, and we’d love for you to be a part of it.
Ready to see the sunset for yourself?
Check availability and book your stay at Rhiw Goch Inn today!
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