15 units · Motorhomes, Tents5 acres · Harlech, Gwynedd, North WalesWith a name like 'Hideaway in the Hills' expectations of Dinas campsite were high. Thankfully, they didn't disappoint. Accessed by a single lane road and nestled in a picturesque Snowdonian valley, you really do feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem.
Small, quiet and family-friendly, Dinas Caravan Park is on mostly level ground and split between the stream-side lower field and the upper field, which is surrounded by tall oak trees. Each pitch comes complete with its very own picnic table. Campfires are, of course, what really add the cool to camping, and here they are enthusiastically encouraged. For just a couple of quid you can hire a metal fire box, then you're good to go. Firewood is helpfully brought round each evening and once those flames are flickering you can indulge in some scrumptious S'mores - toasted marshmallows with melted chocolate, sandwiched between two biscuits! Sit back and enjoy the sugar rush.
Dinas is truly a place of peace, and as such the owners ask that noise is kept to a minimum between the hours of 11pm and 7.30am, with music being a no-no. All this adds to the tranquil vibe and helps everyone get a good night's kip.
This truly is nature's playground – kids will be entertained for hours building dens in the forest, dams in the stream or playing on the swing. The campsite also has its very own lake where you can hire a Canadian canoe and take to the water, or bring a blow-up dingy or paddle-board and enjoy splashing around.
If you like your camping a little more luxe, then Dinas also offers glamping. The pre-erected bell tent comes complete with double bed, duvet, pillows and... wait for it... your own wood heated hot tub! Somewhere in between this and a regular tent is the camping pod; you won't be sleeping under canvas as it's made of wood (and even has a carpet), but it's not too far removed from an authentic camping experience, and feels a bit like sleeping in a snug den.
In truth you could quite happily spend your entire stay without venturing outside the boundary of the campsite, but then you would be missing out on some really special treats this area has to offer. The nearest beach is only four miles away and this section of coast boasts a plethora of unspoilt sandy stretches. Llandanwg beach is close by and has views across the peninsular and rock pools to explore. Shell Island (as the name suggests) is the place to head for some impressive additions to your crustacean collection. It also boasts some of the highest sand dunes in Wales to run up and roll down. Morfa Dyffyn beach is another fantastic stretch of sandy beach and if you prefer to do your sunbathing in the buff this is the place for you – walk half a mile along and you'll spot the sign which declares naturists are permitted to disrobe.
Of course the best way to explore this area is on foot and the helpful folk at Dinas provide walking guides for leisurely strolls or more taxing rambles in the area. There's also a little hill called Snowdon that's not too far away, too.
Potable water
Campfires
Showers
Trash
