Mr & Mrs Smith

Explore a little Welsh culture, enjoy the rugged beauty of the countryside and track wild mountain birds (including Peregrine falcons, buzzards, kestrels and kites) on a private 4x4 tour with the passionate, knowledgeable and charming Elfin Pugh, owner of Red Kite Safaris (+44 (0)1654 703160). Visit the village of Portmeirion on the southern shores of Snowdonia and pick up some of the famous pottery, sometimes at bargain prices. Adrenalin junkies can experience every imaginable extreme sport in these parts, from kitesurfing to horse riding – just ask the folk at Ffynnon to book you in.

The family-run Bella Italia (01341 422008) is Dolgellau’s newest restaurant and specialises in good-quality homemade Italian food. It has a cosy, relaxed atmosphere, and is ideal for families or informal dining. Dylanwad Da (01341 422870) is an excellent small, friendly restaurant and wine shop in the centre of Dolgellau. It has a reputation for serving good food and wine at a reasonable price. Combining stunning traditional and contemporary design with unparalleled panoramic views over Mawddach estuary and the Cader Idris mountain range, Bwyty Mawddach (01341 424020) offers a modern, luxurious menu made with the finest seasonal ingredients available. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, the George III Hotel (01341 422525) at Penmaenpool is a pub situated by the side of the beautiful Mawddach estuary. It’s a fantastic place to while away the time over a good bar meal or Sunday lunch. Fish is a speciality. The Old County Gaol Restaurant (01341 422554), in the cellar at Y Meirionnydd Hotel, is well known locally for serving quality local produce. It boasts one of the most comprehensive selections of Welsh wines in the region.