Wales

Cae Mabon, Snowdonia

Last updated 9th June 2017

Why go?

Cae Mabon is an eco-retreat village near Llanberis, Snowdonia, run by the storyteller and children’s author Eric Maddern, and great for British camping lovers.

The site comprises of cabins and tents in the forest, built around a central roundhouse and a dining hall, with a rustic, close-to-nature feel. It’s very much a back-to-basics break with camping-style facilities. There’s also the cool Hobbit House with futon beds and a small heater, should you want a little more comfort from your camping trip.

Its open week for families each summer attracts children of all ages from babies to teenagers, although the majority of activities – bushcraft, pond-dipping in the stream – are geared towards slightly older children (8-12 years).

Activities

Songs and storytelling sessions around the fire each evening bring the whole camp together. The lesson on building a fairy den will also be a hit with little children and for parents, there’s a hot tub to relax in after the kids are asleep.

Food: It’s fully-catered with healthy vegetarian food, plus juice, fruit and hot drinks available all day.

Top tip: Take some wet-weather activities – an iPad with pre-downloaded films will help you get through rainy days that can be a regular feature in Snowdonia.

The lowdown

Price: A three-night family break at Cae Mabon (01286 871542) starts from £180, including all food and activities.

Travel time: Trains from London Euston to Bangor take 3 hours and 30 minutes, it is then 25 minutes to Cae Mabon.