Cool Down And Chill Out At This Summer
Cool down and chill out at this summer
Summer is almost here, and Adventure Parc Snowdonia is the perfect place to soak up the sun, have some fun, and create everlasting memories with people you’ll never forget.
We've got an exciting line-up of summer experiences to behold including:
• Surfing on our world-first inland surf lagoon
• Indoor high ropes course and adrenaline-fueled activities for all ages
• Hassle-free heated camping pods immersed within the woodlands or located along the lagoon
• Relaxing spa treatments and outdoor infinity pool at Wave Garden Spa
• Delicious local produce served at our on-site restaurants
• Stylish and comfortable rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia, located just next to all the action.
Surrounded and shaded by the rugged mountains and picturesque valleys of Snowdonia National Park, this is the perfect place to cool down and chill out this summer.
Don't wait! Book now and have something to look forward to
A Royal Pudding Party in Snowdonia
A Royal Platinum Pudding Party in Snowdonia
The Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia will serve guests a slice of luxury at the Royal Platinum Pudding Party - an afternoon tea to celebrate the Kings Coronation hosted by Fortnum & Mason’s Platinum Pudding Creator Jemma Melvin.
Jemma, now a host on Morning Live, will be at the event to stack her award-winning Lemon Swiss Roll and Amaretti Trifle which was crowned the official pudding of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Guests will be served with a selection of dainty finger sandwiches, sweet treats, and free-flowing tea for £25 per person on Saturday 6th May 2023 between 11am – 3pm. The hotel will be in full celebratory swing with décor, festive entertainment and more.
Guests can watch Jemma stack her famous Platinum Jubilee Trifle with all the action shared on Instagram for followers to replicate the process: www.instagram.com/hgisnowdonia.
Jemma’s famous recipe can be found here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/lemon_swiss_roll_and_4246
Afternoon Tea bookings: reservations@hgisnowdonia.com / 01492 353 353(reservations are essential and limited spaces are still available).
Easter Just Got Sweeter In Snowdonia
Easter Just Got Sweeter In Snowdonia
Create special memories this Easter with our line-up of family friendly activities to enjoy together in the beautiful surroundings of Snowdonia.
Explore the indoor, outdoor and water based adrenaline activities. Relax and soak up the views in the spa’s outdoor infinity pool. Replenish and reconnect over good wine and with local produce served delectably at our restaurants.
Here’s a round-up of experiences to enjoy this Easter at Adventure Parc Snowdonia.
FAMILY POD CAMPING
Adventure Parc Snowdonia’s heated camping pods are the perfect and hassle-free alternative to traditional tent camping. Pods are immersed within the woodlands or located along the lagoon, strategically capturing views of all the action. Starting from £50 per family of four.
SPRING SURF
Surf into spring with our world-first inland surf lagoon that provides a powerful and consistent wave - the greatest roll being for 150 metres at 6-7 metres per second. Perfect for beginners, pros and groups of friends and families looking for some skill-based fun
BOOK YOUR BEGINNERS LESSON NOW
WEATHER-PROOF FUN
Adventure Parc Snowdonia is home to unmatched indoor adrenaline facilities making it a guaranteed destination for fun – no matter what weather. Facilities were designed with world pros and include the
adventure climb, ninja assaults, extreme slides and indoor high ropes that are fit for adrenaline junkies and nature loving kids alike.
EASTER SUNDAY ROAST
Tuck into a selection of seasonal favorites and succulent roast lamb at Zephyrs, a restaurant revered by locals and visitors alike. With delicious local ingredients fresh from the rivers, coast and farms of North Wales, this is the perfect family treat this Easter.
RESERVE YOUR SUNDAY ROAST HERE
STEP INTO SPRING
…with a spring in your step. Rejuvenate with a self-care routine spring clean and book our seasonally inspired package which includes access to the spa and its famous outdoor infinity pool, a facial, foot treatment, a light lunch and a complimentary glass of prosecco as well as an Easter treat of 10% off your retail purchases.
FAMILY STAYS
Surrounded by a breath-taking landscape of rugged mountains and picturesque valleys, Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia is located next to all the action of the surf lagoon, with a secret spa sanctuary hidden at the end. The hotel’s attentive service, surf inspired interiors and the locally sourced products and ingredients throughout provide a sense of place where visitors truly feel like they’re in Wales and enjoy coming back to time and time again.
The Waves are back – here’s how to make the most of them
The Waves are back
here’s how to make the most of them
Our waves are back and here’s how to make the most of your experience here in the foothills of North Wales at Adventure Parc Snowdonia.
Surf the Waves
Check out our ‘Just Surf’ sessions. For those with experience and confidence, you can paddle straight out into the water and enjoy consistently perfect waves to practice your skills.
Newbie? No problem
Learn to surf in a safe, controlled environment with our Beginners Surf Lessons. Group coaching includes 30-minutes in our surf academy where surfers aged 8-years and above can learn about water safety, body positioning and how to pop up and wipe out. Once you’re in the water you will paddle out to our beginner bay to catch your first waves!
BOOK YOUR BEGINNERS LESSON NOW
Get set to become a pro!
From absolute beginners through to advanced level surfers, we offer surf courses for all abilities from age 5+. Our consistent, perfect waves roll every 90 seconds, expert, fun and friendly surfing instructors and all the equipment you need in these beautiful surroundings - this the ultimate place hone your surfing skills.
CHECK OUT ALL OF OUR COURCES HERE
S’ UP Paddleboarders!
Flat-water stand-up paddleboard (SUP) sessions are an incredibly fun and accessible family activity.It’s a great entry-level sport and perfect for a mixed age/ability group. Where surfing meets canoeing, it’s a really fun and exhilarating way to enjoy being out on the water in the fresh air.
REFUEL AND RECHARGE AT OUR SURSIDE BAR & KITCHEN
Refuel after a full day of surfing, or boost your energy before your epic wave adventure begins, our Surf Side Bar & Kitchen serves amazing freshly-made sandwiches, salads, pastries, paninis, pizzas and more – all with views across our lagoon
SURF & STAY
Surf, stay and relax – book a room at the Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia and enjoy our warm Welsh hospitality, comfortable rooms with all the space surfers need (some with views overlooking the surf) and eclectic dining experiences at Zephyrs.
Family Breaks in Snowdonia
Family breaks in snowdonia
getting the most out of your summer holiday
One of the few positives to come from the pandemic was a newfound appreciation for our home turf. Alongside this, was the sweeping realisation that life is precious and so time spent together is incredibly important. For those reasons, 2023 should be the year you choose to prioritise making memories with family, friends and loved ones. The actual value of these special, shared experiences translates to better communication, a sense of connectivity and a deep appreciation for the natural world around us. As more and more people begin to prioritise health and mental wellbeing above all else, we believe the best breaks are measured in the number of smiles, not air miles.
Ultimately, you can choose whether your summer break is about the chaos of queues, cancellations and delays, or the calm of airy, open spaces and effortless experiences in nature. When you stay with us, you can start your mornings with a refreshing open water swim or paddleboard atop the lagoon, before enjoying a hearty breakfast in one of our onsite restaurants. Spend your days exploring the national park itself, or simply stay onsite with us and enjoy the endless activities we have on offer (including various weatherproof ones). Recognised around the world for its unparalleled beauty and unspoilt scenery, Snowdonia is a destination unlike any other.
EXPERIENCES ARE AMPLIFIED WHEN SHARED, PARTICULARLY BETWEEN FAMILY MEMBERS. OVERCOMING CHALLENGES TOGETHER ESPECIALLY MAKES FOR ENHANCED COMMUNICATION, INCREASED TRUST AND BETTER FAMILIAL RELATIONSHIPS.
Is Snowdonia a good choice for families?
Snowdonia is essentially an oversized adventure playground offering everything from the eponymous mountain range to the countless gorges and waterfalls hidden within the dense forests of the National Park. Along with crumbling castles, expansive lakes and endless rolling greenery, Snowdonia is home to the world’s first inland surf lagoon which also boasts an adrenaline indoors centre, ziplines and a luxury hotel and spa.
Evolving naturally our world first Wavegarden Lagoon wave pool has grow into an award-winning destination for people and families to reconnect with nature and each other, we offer a vast range of different activities each inspired by the great welsh outdoors. Our Parc is home to ziplines, climbing walls, a surf lagoon, indoor assault course and very own Hilton hotel and spa.
Based in the awe-inspiring Conwy valley, the Parc is also conveniently close to a whole host of North Wales attractions including Zipworld, Conwy, Llandudno, Portmeirion and Bala. Promising a range of activities for both children and adults to enjoy, this bucket-list destination takes the very essence of adventure and distils it into an effortless, palatable experience that everyone can enjoy.
OUR ACCOMmODATION
A delightful stay with all of the modern comforts awaits in our Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia, which features a selection of different room types to suit your needs as a family. We offer family rooms that boast an extra sofa bed along with interconnecting rooms for added privacy and space. Alternatively, our woodland camping village is home to charming wooden pods that each feature two singles and one double bed. With a communal toilet and shower block, enchanting string lights and the great outdoors all around you, our pods are just like camping but with the added comforts of heating, lights and charging ports.
Get lost in the land of ancient legends, mammoth mountains and exhilarating adventure and you’ll likely find yourself right at home. Book your Welsh getaway today.
A Complete Guide to Climbing Snowdon
Climbing snowdon this summer
a complete guide to Wales' tallest mountain
Adventure Parc Snowdonia is desirably based for conquering Snowdon and many other mountains in the surrounding ranges. Just a short drive away from several of the carparks used to access the walking paths, we provide a comfortable, luxury base for those who want to get the best out of the great outdoors.
Wales is known for playing a pivotal part in the Three Peaks Challenge, and many of our guests take advantage of our Wave Garden Spa next door for a restful and restorative spa session for any aching muscles. Located in a prime position for outdoor adventure, our guests are able to curate their own itinerary based entirely around hiking Wales’ tallest mountain.
For that reason, we’ve compiled this short guide to scaling Snowdon.
About Snowdon
The highest mountain in both England and Wales, Snowdon, known in Welsh as Yr Wyddfa, is an iconic landmark that is climbed by over 500,000 people each year. The highest point of the Snowdon massif, the summit sits at 1085 metres above sea level and is flanked by the ranges of Glyderau, Carneddau, Moel Winion and Moel Hebog. Shaped by rocks formed during the Ordovician period, the typically alpine topography that we explore today is the result of glacial erosion and movements from millennia ago.
The craggy outcrop of Snowdon is characterised by its many cwms (valleys) which are home to several lakes. The largest lake, Llyn Llydaw, sits at a height of 440m up the mountain and features a causeway crossing that was originally built in 1853. Once the site of a 10ft dugout canoe, the lake is also the deepest, with depths of up to 58m.
Snowdon was the chosen training site for the first men to conquer Everest, Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay.
Which path to take up Snowdon?
There are a choice of six different paths for conquering Snowdon, which differ little in mileage but substantially in difficulty. The paths themselves are known as:
- The Snowdon Ranger Path – a good Snowdon walk for avoiding the crowds
- Pyg Track – the Snowdon path with the least elevation gain
- Miners Track – the best Snowdon route for views
- Llanberis Path – the easiest walk up Snowdon for beginners
- Watkins Path – the most challenging Snowdon route
- Rhyd Ddu – the quietest Snowdon trek
The Snowdon Ranger Path is the oldest and quietest path to Snowdon’s summit, taking between 6 and 7 hours to complete. Spanning 8 miles and climbing 936m in total, the path is named the ‘Ranger Path’ after John Morton. Morton was a local guide who used this route to take tourists up the mountain during the Victorian era. Starting out from the Llyn Cwellyn car park, the path is initially steep as it zig-zags up from the valley floor before evening out into easier terrain for the rest of the climb. While scenic and sweeping with views of the Nantlle Ridge, Moel Hebog and Mynydd Mawr, the path isn’t as dramatic as some of the other routes, which is perhaps why it is often quieter.
The Pyg Track is the shortest route up Snowdon, with the least amount of elevation gain at 723m. Taking about 7 hours to complete, the Pyg Track (pronounced ‘pig’) begins at the Pen Y Pass car park, which must be pre booked in advance due to its popularity. A rough and rugged trail of 7 miles, this particular track has some sections of scrambling along Crib Goch, which means only experienced hikers and climbers should opt to follow it. Along this route, you’ll enjoy the ‘classic Snowdon view’ of Llyn Llydaw and Glaslyn, as well as the epic outcrop of Crib Goch and Y LLiwedd.
The Miners Track is often considered the best route for views, with sweeping scenery of both lake and mountain. Typically taking 7 hours to conquer, the Miners is 8 miles in total and begins very gradually, with striking views of the summit ahead. Also beginning from the popular Pen-Y-Pass car park, climbers taking this route during summer will need to pre-book their parking space and arrive early. Climbing 750m in total, the Miners track runs parallel to the Pyg trail which means you can take one up and a different one down if you’d like to mix things up.
The Llanberis Path is the longest route up Snowdon at 9 miles in length. It is also the most popular route, due to its accessibility and easy terrain. The Llanberis track starts out from Llanberis itself, where the ‘Path to Snowdon’ is signposted from the Royal Victoria Hotel. It is the best path to take if you’re heading up with children or for the first time, taking anywhere from 5 to 7 hours to complete. You’ll climb 975m over a longer period than the other tracks, making for an easier ascent.
The Watkin Path is the most challenging of the six trails, taking around 8 hours and climbing an impressive 1,015m over 8 miles. If you’re an experienced walker who really wants to ‘climb’ Snowdon, this is the path for you. The factors that make Watkin so difficult include loose scree near the summit, a small ridge section and steep climbs with loose, eroded rock underfoot. The Watkin Path is also considered the most rewarding, with unique features such as old quarry workers’ barracks, the Afon Cwm Llan waterfalls and the popular Watkin Pools, which make for a pleasant, scenic dip in bracing emerald waters during the descent. This trail begins from the car park at Pont Bethania, from which you’ll need to walk along a main road until you reach Hafod y Llan, where you’ll see the stone ‘Watkin Path’ pillar.
Finally, the Rhyd Ddu Path is the one to choose if you’re looking to avoid the hordes of tourists, being the quietest route of all six. Climbing a total of 895m in 7.5 miles, the path conveniently also has its own car park, the Rhyd Ddu car park. Providing both the classic view of Snowdon along with alternative angles of Nantlle Ridge and Moel Hebog, the trail covers a combination of ridge and stone path and can be combined with the South Ridge Path for a circular walk.
Where can I park for walking snowdon?
Most of the tracks up Snowdon begin from the Pen y Pass carpark, which must be pre-booked in advance. Other trails begin from Llyn Cwellyn and Post Bethania carparks, which are both pay and display. There is also a Sherpa bus service, which connects many of the starting points with many local towns including Betws y Coed, Llanberis and Caernarfon. Find out more about carparks for climbing Snowdon and the Snowdon Sherpa Bus Service here.
What to take with you when climbing Snowdon
As mentioned, the conditions on Snowdon (and in the surrounding peaks) are subject to volatile, drastic changes. For that reason, we recommend packing the following in a rucksack for your adventure:
- A waterproof jacket & trousers
- A hat and gloves
- Suncream & sunglasses
- Any required medication or inhalers
- Water
- High-energy snacks
- A map of the area & a compass
- Emergency supplies such as a whistle and a headtorch
- You might also want to take a camera and binoculars so that you can make the most of the scenery around you
What time of year is best for hiking Snowdon?
While the weather does vary during the seasons in this part of Wales, the conditions on the summit are always subject to change - for perspective, the summit sits at the same altitude as some of the lower ski resorts in the Chamonix Valley, such as Domaine de Balme. For that reason, the best time of year to climb Snowdon is during the summer months on dry, clear days.
Ultimately, the months of July and August tend to offer the most stable conditions for climbing Snowdon, but you should plan ahead, avoid wet weather and always be prepared to call it off if necessary.
other important THINGS TO NOTE WHEN CLIMBING SNOWDON
Despite the busy-ness and popularity of Snowdon, fatal accidents still occur. Each year, the Llanberis Mountain Rescue Team responds to between 180-210 incidents, where volunteers risk their lives to save others. For that reason, you should be prepared for the elements and appropriately dressed in hiking clothing and shoes. The Llanberis MRT also recommends giving someone a copy of your route with timings, and knowing how to use a compass and a map - which you should have on your person. At the summit of Snowdon, the weather can be very different to the base, and the wind speed can accelerate by up to 3 times, meaning you should pack layers, high-energy snacks and always begin to descend if the weather takes a turn for the worse. All Snowdon car parks are incredibly busy on weekends, often filling up before 8am. It’s important you start out your adventure early in order to avoid descending in the dark. Finally - always take your rubbish with you.
Book your stay with us & climb snowdon
Want to conquer Wales' tallest mountain and enjoy an endless amount of adventures alongside it? Book your room today.
Bangor University Surf Team
BANGOR UNIVERSITY SURF TEAM
CHAMPIONING OUR LOCAL WELSH SURF COMMUNITY
At Surf Snowdonia, much of what we do is centred around encouraging everyone to get in the water and enjoy the benefits that come with doing so. We are firm believers that surfing not only strengthens our connection with the natural world but also raises awareness of crucial water safety. As part of our continuous pledge to support surfing in our local community, we often host Bangor University Surf Team (BUST), which is partially run by one of our very own - lifeguard & trainee instructor Maddie Garner.
BUST is a group of students from Bangor University who love to get out on the water, on the beach (or now the wave pool) and have a good time. It’s a free, student-led club with an elected committee that organises sessions, competitions, and socials for members. The team actively encourages as many people as possible to try surfing, which is new for a lot of people, along with promoting water safety and environmental awareness.
Surfing in Snowdonia with Bangor University Surf Team
Each year, new students who attend Bangor’s freshers fair are invited to join the surf team by going along to a taster session at a local beach, something which we’ve now hosted here on the parc. Thanks to its close proximity to the coastline, Snowdonia National Park and the great outdoors of North Wales, Bangor University is often chosen by students who already have an interest in adventure-based sports.
Speaking about their partnership with Surf Snowdonia, the team revealed:
“The wave pool is an amazing resource to us, providing guaranteed waves and expert instruction. We have been running sessions here since September last year every two weeks and it has been so rewarding seeing people improve and move up the wave levels.It also gives complete beginners more confidence to try different things in a more controlled environment than the sea.”
Beach cleans, charity balls & BBQs
Surfing creates a strong community of people who love the waves, whether it is the ocean or a wave pool, and with that, there is a level of respect for the natural environment that comes with it. The surf team have completed several beach cleans as part of Surfers Against Sewage’s big spring beach clean and ran a charity ball for Papyrus, who work for the prevention of youth suicide. We were honoured to provide a surf voucher as part of the raffle.
After a challenging period during COVID, the surf team have been able to return to their usual surf sessions, lessons and trips. All proving incredibly popular, the team even had to make a waiting list for the first time in the surf club’s history!
Hosting BBQs, parties, surf movie nights and even surf trips to the likes of Peniche, Portugal, the team are hoping that the future will hold even more charity events, competitions and of course, surf sessions. If you’d like to join the team or get involved with any of their events, you can find them on facebook here.
An Interview with Andrew Cotton
AN INTERVIEW WITH ANDREW COTTON
IN SESSION WITH BIG WAVE SURFER AND MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER ANDREW COTTON
Andrew Cotton is a man of many talents. Professional big wave surfer, top-level athlete, adventurer, guest speaker, qualified lifeguard and skilled plumber to boot.
He is now one of the world’s most respected big wave surfers, forming a critical part of the team that allowed Garrett McNamara to go down in the history books when, in 2011, Cotton towed McNamara into Nazaré, where he surfed a 78-foot wave. This was the largest wave ever surfed at the time.
These days, Andrew splits his time between Portugal and West Ireland for the big wave season, travelling the globe to scope out other spots such as Peahi in Hawaii, Mavericks in California and The Right in West Australia. However, this wasn’t always the case despite his early love for surfing. In order to secure some job stability, Cotton trained as both a lifeguard and a plumber before some promising partnerships meant that he was able to progress into a full-time athlete.
Andrew is also a motivational speaker, offering invaluable insight into topics such as facing and working with fear, setting and achieving goals, overcoming adversity and thinking creatively.
After lockdown forced her to take an extended break from competitions, Barton is back with a bang. In 2022 alone, she's competed in the ISA World Juniors in El Salvador, hit the shores of France, Spain & Portugal and returned home to reclaim her place on the podium at the Boardmasters Open.
AN INTERVIEW WITH BIG WAVE SURFER ANDREW COTTON
We recently caught up with Andrew after a session in our lagoon to talk about his upcoming events, what he thinks about wave pools and some memorable moments from his surfing career so far.
Hi Andrew, thanks for taking some time out to chat with us. What’s life like right now - are you training for anything in particular?
Well, of course, it’s summer and I’m in North Devon so there are only really pretty small waves. It’s a good time for me to work on injuries, my training programme, and equipment. There is some big wave action going on in the southern hemisphere, but I’ve decided to stay local this time. My season will start at the end Sept/beginning of October when I’ll head back to Portugal and train in Nazaré.
How was your session in the wavepool at Surf Snowdonia?
So it was quite funny actually because I was doing a challenge to swim in the 3 highest lakes in the UK with XTRATUF. These lakes are Red Tarn in the lake district, England, Loch Etchachan in the Cairngorms, Scotland and of course Llyn Llyffant or ‘frog lake’ in Snowdonia, Wales. Unfortunately, the conditions in Snowdonia meant that we were unable to access the lake without it being a safety risk - I was really blown away by just how quickly the weather changes up there, but the flip side of being unable to complete the swim was that we could visit Surf Snowdonia.
The wave itself was a really clean, nice experience. Some of the other wavepools I’ve visited previously can feel a bit intense, but at Surf Snowdonia you have these peeling lefts and rights that just make for a fun experience.
Where was your very first big wave experience? Do you remember what was going through your head at the time?
Well, what is a big wave? It changes at every stage of your surfing, doesn’t it? For me, my first big wave experience was during my teens at my local spot in Croyde. It was probably around 4-6ft and I was petrified, in my experience that was as big as it gets! As for what was going through my head though it was just really exciting, it gave me that buzz to want more.
Big wave surfing is probably as extreme as surfing gets. Do you think anyone is capable of becoming a big wave surfer, or that it takes a certain type of person?
I think everyone has their big wave - there’s really no size. Some people find a comfort zone and they are happy there, others want to push the boundaries and push themselves. That ultimately also transcends into other areas of life, not just surfing.
We know that you harness the power of fear and turn it into motivation, so what advice would you give to people who want to overcome their own fears?
You can learn to enjoy fear. There are ultimately two ways to go - you can see something scary and avoid it and it just becomes bigger, or you can take on that fear and even if you don’t completely conquer it, you’ll still come away with a real sense of satisfaction, and that’s the powerful thing.
I’ve seen first-hand from surfing with other surfers how they manage to enjoy the worst moments, which ultimately unlocks the door to exciting times.
You’ve had quite the career since becoming a full-time athlete. What words of wisdom would you give to your younger self?
I think for me now where I am, you can always get better - if I could go back and have a word with myself in my twenties, I’d be telling myself it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. There’s always time to progress! You know, I’m 42 now and I’m still making profess with my surfing, fitness, diet, recovery, everything.
We’ve seen that your children, Honey and Ace, have inherited your talent for extreme sports. What would you say to parents that want to introduce their own children to surfing?
It can be challenging, and ultimately they have to really want to do it. I’ve just given them the tools and the options to pursue it if they want to. At the moment they’re both really into their team sports like football and rugby. Both are really capable in the water which is really great.
Wave pools like ours are springing up all over the planet. How do you think they can benefit the surf culture and growth of the sport in the right way?
Oh definitely, they absolutely have their place. For starters, it’s a safe environment that’s accessible to everyone and it’s great for surfers who can’t get to the beach every weekend, they can hit the pool and learn to surf whenever.
It’s totally not the route that I’ve gone within my surfing career, but it’s so much fun. It gives a repetitiveness to surfing which is really hard to replicate in the ocean. In that aspect, you’ll develop some muscle memory that will allow you to finetune, learn and practise before taking it all out into the ocean.
Late last year we saw your very cool partnership with Porsche & Sidetracked magazine - can we ask what your most memorable partnership experience has been so far?
I’ve been really fortunate with some of the opportunities I’ve had. Ultimately though, one of the most exciting things for me was to sign with Redbull - I’ve had a long list of injuries through big wave surfing, which could potentially be a huge red flag for some brands but they’ve been there to support me through those worst moments. They’ve been there to scoop me up and guide me through it.
And of course, being lucky enough to work on little fun projects with brands such as the three peaks challenge with XTRATUF.
Are there any specific practices you follow before heading out into big waves?
So if I’m going into big waves, I’m not trying to amp myself up, it’s a much more mindful practice. I’ll work on nasal breathing, 3 seconds in and 10 seconds out, focusing on the breath. I’ll visualise what I want to do that day and my goals. If you’re going into dangerous situations I think you really need to be going in with a level head.
Finally, describe big wave surfing in three words.
Accept, surrender & embrace.
Keep up to date with andrew's adventures
You can find out more about what Andrew is up to on his YouTube channel or on Instagram at @andrew_cotty
An Interview with Alys Barton
AN INTERVIEW WITH ALYS BARTON
ADVENTURE PARC SNOWDONIA AMBASSADOR & U18 EUROPEAN SURF CHAMPION
Alys Barton has been busy since her first season in 2017. Quickly climbing the ranks of women’s surfing, this Team England powerhouse calls the wild Welsh seas home, recalling her first surfing experience as being pushed into the waves on her dad’s Webber Shortboard at the Gower’s iconic Langland Point.
After lockdown forced her to take an extended break from competitions, Barton is back with a bang. In 2022 alone, she's competed in the ISA World Juniors in El Salvador, hit the shores of France, Spain & Portugal and returned home to reclaim her place on the podium at the Boardmasters Open.
A QUICK FIRE INTERVIEW WITH PRO FEMALE SURFER ALYS BARTON
We recently caught up with Alys to talk about her exciting year ahead, favourite surf spots, and what the future of female surfing looks like.
Hey Alys, thanks for taking some time out to chat with us - First up, what’s life looking like for you right now, is there anything in particular you’re training for?
Right now I am coming back off getting a second place in the Pantin Classic Qs and becoming European junior champion which I’m so stoked about! I am back at home now and getting ready for Boardmasters in mid August. Aside from competing I am always trying to push my surfing to become more progressive.
You recently joined the ISA World Juniors in El Salvador, what was that experience like?
This was an awesome experience. The team was amazing and everyone was supporting each other in and out of the water! It was such a great opportunity to have at a young age and I'm incredibly thankful.
We’ve been lucky enough to have you surf with us at Surf Snowdonia - what’s your favourite thing about surfing in a Wave Garden?
It’s so awesome! I haven’t experienced a wave like it before. It has power behind it which allows you to practice high performance surfing throughout the entire wave. It’s situated in such a picturesque location, and the great vibe at Surf Snowdonia definitely adds to the experience.
How do you feel about being an upcoming female surfer? Do you think there’s still work to be done to even the playing field between male/female surfing?
I think that surfing and all sports are changing quickly. Everyone is adapting everyday to how it’s changing, especially in the space of women/girls surfing. In terms of the playing field though, it’s evolved so much - the equal pay scenario being a great example!
Worst wipeout?
Ooo this is a good one I would probably say in Playa Hermosa Costa Rica. This wave is powerful and heavy but can be so awesome when you get a good one.
Best wave?
I love surfing in France and all the breaks there. The waves are always so fun and the people you meet in the water are so great !
Favourite Welsh surf spots?
I love surfing the reefs at home. They are usually quiet and you can score some pretty fun waves. I do also love surfing my local spots Llangennith and Langland ! The vibe in the water is brilliant.
Ultimate song on your pre-comp playlist?
Honestly? Anything Disney....
Are there any other female surfers that you look up to/follow on social media?
For sure! I definitely look up to surfers like Caity Simmers and Alyssa Spenser! I really enjoy these girls surfing.
Best advice for female surfers who might feel intimidated by a male-dominated lineup?
No one owns the lineup! Go out there and do your thing! Most importantly, have fun.
Inspired by Alys? Get in the water at Adventure Parc Snowdonia
Our all-new Water Parc Pass gives guests access to a fun-filled day on our inflatable assault course with inclusive access to kayaks and Red Paddle Co SUPs. There's plenty of parking along with hot showers and a choice of food, beverage and accommodation options. The coffee is good and the people are friendly - we can’t wait to see you.
We take great pride in our accessible, inclusive surf community where everyone can learn, practise and enjoy. Many of those who surf with us can also receive helpful tips on getting the most out of their session from our lifeguards and instructors who can be found in and around the lagoon. If you struggle with your confidence in the sea, or would love to introduce your child to surfing in a safe and controlled environment, our lagoon is the perfect place.
Want to keep up with Alys? Find her on instagram at @alysbartonsurfer and on TikTok at @alysoxleybarton
Welsh Adaptive Surf Championships: A Huge Thank You
WELSH ADAPTIVE SURF CHAMPIONSHIPS
A QUICK RECAP OF AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENT
The Welsh Adaptive Surf Championship is one that we are incredibly honoured to host here at Adventure Parc Snowdonia, and our second competition, that took place over the 1st & 2nd July, was a huge success.
We were privileged to welcome 20 adaptive surfers from all over the world including the USA, France and Israel, along with some homegrown UK talent including Liverpool-born Spike Kane, Bournemouth’s Tash Davies and our very own Llewelyn Williams, the man responsible for bringing this event to Snowdonia.
The driving force behind both this and our previous event, Abersoch local Llewelyn remembers when all of this was just a possibility. After posing the question of a Welsh championship while on tour at the US Open Championship, Llewelyn left with a list of over 40 interested surfers and the rest, as they say, is history.
Found at Sea: The inspiring stories of our surfers
Our legendary lineup of British Surfers took home several trophies, with Spike Kane claiming first in the sitting category and third in prone surfing, while Llewelyn won the kneeling category. Competing in the prone assist class, Tash Davies, who has been disabled since the age of 13 with a weakness in her arms, describes surfing as “a different challenge which I enjoy taking on.”
You can read more about the awe-inspiring stories of our surfers over at Nation Cymru.
We’d also like to give a special thanks to the sponsors of this event starting with The Mailing Room, a Bury-based family company with an interest in adaptive surfing. Also to AmpSurf, an organisation set up to inspire and rehabilitate people with disabilities, and Llywelyn’s family company, Hopalong Clothing, who also supported the event.
3C International Live Stream also played a huge part in making the event accessible for all those who couldn't attend, while our onsite supporters showed up in strong form to cheer on our athletes.
Learn to surf at Adventure Parc Snowdonia
Feeling inspired by our amazing athletes? Always wanted to try surfing yourself? Our 300m freshwater lagoon is the ideal place for learning to surf, with four different graded wave types ranging from beginner through to advanced. Running lessons, courses and free surf wave sessions in the mountains of Snowdonia, this is the ultimate surf spot.