Idwal Cottage Youth Hostel

Just back from a fantastic three-night stay at YHA Idwal Cottage, and I can't recommend it enough. The location is absolutely unbeatable—right on the doorstep of Cwm Idwal, the Glyders, Tryfan, Devil's Kitchen, and the Carneddau. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a group, or a family, it's the perfect base for some of North Wales' best hiking, scrambling, and climbing. The hostel itself is spot on: super friendly hosts, cosy self-catering facilities, and convenient separate parking (just remember to register your vehicle!). This is trully invaluable in such a busy area. One particular highlight was a superb hike from the cottage up Y Garn, continuing over Foel Goch and Elidir Fawr before dropping down towards Bethesda. The route offered ever‑changing views across the Ogwen Valley and Pen Y Pass Valleys and out toward the coast over the Menai straights towards Anglesea, with each ridge revealing a new dramatic perspective. The mountain felt wonderfully alive—I spotted wild goats picking their way sure‑footedly across the steep slopes, a solitary wild pony grazing in quiet contentment on a secluded ridge, and crows and buzzards riding the thermals overhead, their calls echoing among the crags. As if the scenery weren't dramatic enough, I also watched helicopters on low‑level training exercises down in the valleys and across by Snowdon, while RAF Typhoon jets shook the very air with their thunderous, spine‑tingling fly‑pasts that roared through the valleys before vanishing as quickly as they came. As for the weather, I experienced three seasons in three days—if I'd arrived a day earlier, I reckon I'd have had the full set. Good old Welsh weather! Thank you that was a memorable birthday

4 months ago · via Google

Room 5 is right above the reception area, so near the front door which is loud (and the corridor fire door as well), rooms are fine, small but expected for a single room. Hostel is basic, no food provision and nearest shop is Bethesda, but you’re likely staying for the location which is ideal. Check in is 5-8pm only, to be aware of.

a month ago · via Google

Incredible location in ogwen valley, not too busy. clean - plenty of space in kitchen and dining room. Friendly helpful staff and beutiful building. Highly recommend.

a month ago · via Google

Another amazing YHA stay. We had the cabin, really spacious and warm with the storage heater. Perfect location and plenty of walks directly from here. Friendly staff, clean all around, limited fridge space as I guess the hostel was busy during the school half-term. Parking is free from 5pm-10am; if parking during the day, there's a £6 charge, still worth it.

a year ago · via Google