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An historic town with peerless views can now boast of having one of the globe's finest hotels nearby. It's another feather in the bow of a place with any number of attributes, not least its proximity to Wales' largest natural lake. Bala sits gracefully on the northern shores of Llyn Tegid, a freshwater glacial lake encircled by the towering peaks of Eryri (Snowdonia) . Welsh culture is embedded in a former market town which, more recently, has warily embraced tourism - and is sometimes overwhelmed by it . The area is a hub of outdoor adventure, both on the water and out of it.. Bala has its own heritage railway along with showcases of its cultural and historic links. Farming is a mainstay and, for visitors, numerous independent pubs and cafes provide welcome stops. Campsites and glamping locations have grown over the years but more luxurious forms of accommodation exist too. Perhaps the most illustrious is Palé Hall Hotel, now the distinguished winner of a MICHELIN Key award. This is a new distinction awarded by the MICHELIN Guide for hotels - equivalent to the Stars it's long given to restaurants. Palé Hall Hotel is one of three in Wales to feature on the inaugural global list of 7,000 hotels. The other two are Penmaenuchaf in Dolgellau , and Grove of Narberth. The trio have been given a one-Key award, along with 79 others in the UK, marking them out as "special". Just 14 British hotels have received three-Key accolades, awarded for being "exceptional". Palé Hall, near Llandderfel, has long been one of my favourite hotels in Wales, and I've stayed several times, writes Portia Jones of Wales Online . Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone With its illustrious history and lavish décor, this 18-room Victorian mansion is the perfect setting for a swanky escape on the edge of Eryri National Park, with access to trails, lakes, and adventure activities. A member of Relais and Châteaux, Pride of Britain Hotels and Celebrated Experiences, swish Palé Hall is independently owned by Anthony and Donna Cooper-Barney, who took over the hotel in 2024. The ambitious pair plan to add a spa and a second restaurant and potentially expand the number of bedrooms. They have also invested £200,000 to create exquisite Welsh art galleries. Arriving at this large countryside hotel is an experience in itself. The historic exterior, framed by gardens, woodland and a backdrop of rolling hills, creates an immediate sense of occasion. Inside is a curious mixture of grandeur and décor like a hipster fever dream. Imagine a grand staircase, chandeliers, and roaring fireplaces paired with patterned wallpaper and abundant taxidermy. Spacious rooms and suites are individually styled with thoughtful touches: some even have unique features like stained-glass roof lights, chrome bateaux baths, and antique beds. Take a moment to converse with the staff, and you'll quickly realise that dog-friendly Palé Hall is more than just your typical rural retreat. Its history is as enthralling as its architecture, dating back to the 15th century when the original house was first constructed. Built in 1871 by the renowned railway engineer Henry Robertson, the house exudes character and sophistication. Known for his ambitious railway projects across Wales, Robertson spared no expense in crafting a home that reflected his success. The hall, designed by architect Samuel Pountney Smith, stands as a symbol of elegance and grandeur with its honey-coloured stone and eclectic Jacobean style. Palé Hall's role in history goes beyond its famous guests. During the First World War, it functioned as a convalescent hospital, offering recovery and respite for wounded soldiers amidst its tranquil setting. It assumed a new role during the Second World War, providing sanctuary for evacuated children from urban centres. These young evacuees found safety, freedom, and an opportunity to explore the vast estate, creating memories that starkly contrasted with the chaos of the time. Over the years, Palé Hall has played host to an impressive roster of guests, including members of the Royal family. Queen Victoria was a visitor in 1889, entranced by the house and its picturesque surroundings. During her stay, she utilised a magnificent bath and slept in an ornate bed, both of which still reside in the now aptly named Victorian Room, one of the many opulent suites available for those looking to indulge. My preferred suite is the Churchill suite, named after the man himself. In the 1950s, the hall became a favoured retreat for Winston Churchill, who often stayed whilst hunting on the estate's vast grounds. The Churchill Room maintains this historical link, allowing guests to sleep in the grand room that once accommodated the wartime leader. This dog-friendly suite boasts a stunning vaulted ceiling, stained glass roof lights and exquisite wood-panelled walls. Behind a secret door (because who doesn't adore a room with a hidden door), there's a beautiful marble-lined bathroom where you can luxuriate in a copper and zinc bath whilst sipping a glass of fizz because, let's be honest, what's a bubble bath without prosecco, darlings? When it comes to food, you're in excellent hands. For a truly exceptional dining experience, a visit to the hotel's Henry Robertson dining room is a must. This elegant space, complete with its marble fireplace, ornate plaster ceilings, and chandeliers, sets the perfect scene for a fine dining feast. As an AA three-rosette and Michelin Green Star establishment, Palé Hall takes pride in delivering impeccable cuisine that celebrates the finest British and Welsh produce. The thoughtfully crafted dinner menu stands as evidence of the culinary team's expertise and innovation. Appetisers such as pulled pork croquette with burnt apple and radish salad establish the standard, whilst main courses like the butter-roasted chicken with jumbo white beans and grain mustard sauce demonstrated the kitchen's capability to harmonise comfort with refinement. Don't overlook the afternoon tea at Palé Hall either. The offering represents a traditional yet refined experience, commencing with a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, each flavoursome morsel bursting with fresh, seasonal tastes. Upon the remaining tiers sit warm butter scones alongside an assortment of exquisite patisserie and sweet delicacies, all accompanied by tea or a glass of bubbles should you fancy indulging. "Set on 15 acres of riverside parkland in the Dee Valley , at the edge of the vast and wild Snowdonia National Park, Palé Hall is nothing if not secluded - a situation that only heightens the effect of its high Victorian opulence. "Over the course of its colourful history, it's played host to guests no less eminent than Winston Churchill and Queen Victoria herself. And in its current incarnation as a luxury hotel, it's among the finest in Great Britain. "The rooms and suites in the original house maintain their classic style, whilst the Garden Suites, located in the estate's refurbished coach house, adopt a more contemporary look. Each one is as luxurious as can be, blending modern comforts with traditional touches; the Victoria Room still houses the original bathtub of the property. "Due to its relatively small size, Palé Hall offers an exceptionally high standard of service, yet the atmosphere remains far from overly formal. "Leisure activities range from strolls in the garden to mountain climbing and everything in between; lunch, tea, and dinner are served in the Henry Robertson Dining Room." Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Should you have the wherewithal, Palé Hall serves as a splendid base for exploring Bala and its surrounds. The quaint lakeside town boasts a rich history, having been founded around 1310 by Roger de Mortimer of Chirk Castle under Royal Charter. In 1485, the army of Henry Tudor passed through the area en route to the Battle of Bosworth. In the 18th century, the town became a centre for the production of flannel, stockings and gloves. It also has strong religious link, as documented in the Mary Jones Pilgrim Centre, which narrates the tale of a Welsh girl on a sacred mission. In 1800, after saving money for six years, 15-year-old Mary Jones trekked 26 miles from Llanfihangel-y-Pennant to Bala to purchase a much-desired Bible. Her faith-driven journey inspired the formation of the British and Foreign Bible Society. At the Grade II-listed centre, you can trace Mary's journey and delve into the past through multimedia and interactive displays, exhibits, and activities. For railway enthusiasts, the Bala Lake Railway is a must-see. This charming narrow-gauge railway line skirts the southern shores of Llyn Tegid, offering a captivating hour-long journey from Llanuwchllyn to Bala on a vintage train. Local enthusiasts painstakingly restored the line after the original Ruabon-Barmouth railway closed in the 1960s. It operates vintage locomotives that once transported slate from the region's quarries, adding a dash of historical charm to your rail journey. This nine-mile trip runs from the village of Llanuwchllyn to the outskirts of Bala, four and a half miles away. Sit back, unwind, and take in the lush views of the lake, surrounding woodland scenery and the nearby mountains of Arenig Fawr, Aran Benllyn, and Aran Fawddwy. For outdoor lovers, Bala offers a variety of activities, such as rafting, fishing, swimming, and sailing. The National White Water Centre is based in Bala and is a must for adrenaline junkies. Here, roaring water is regularly released from a dam into the River Tryweryn – a steep, fast-flowing mountain river that creates predictable rapids all year round. It allows you to experience the thrills and spills of grade three-to-four rapids on a waterway spectacular enough to have welcomed international white-water competitions. For those passionate about walking, Bala serves as an entrance to Wales' most spectacular terrain. Towards the west, the soaring summits of Eryri present challenging and striking paths, whilst the more tranquil Berwyn Mountains eastwards deliver a feeling of wild, pristine splendour. Families can enjoy numerous gentle routes, including the Treasure Trail, which accommodates buggies and leisurely scenic rambles. Visitors may also enjoy a waterside amble following a designated route. Those drawn to heritage and tradition can explore historical walks such as the Town Trail, the Mary Jones Walk, and the Betsi Cadwaladr Trail. For those seeking wild aquatic escapades, the myth-laden Llyn Tegid boasts the most welcoming, crystal-clear waters for outdoor bathing. In the expansive waters of the enigmatic lake, you can enjoy a paddle, make a splash, or even brave an icy dip during the chillier months. For those confident in their swimming abilities, the Big Bala Swim, organised by Love Swim Run, offers a chance to participate in a structured swim event. The primary open-water route spans 4.5km, but for those seeking a more formidable challenge, there's a 9km swim that covers two lengths of the 4.5km course. After a day filled with adventure, there are plenty of independent pubs and cafes offer the perfect spot for a hearty meal and a pint. The historic Plas Coch Hotel, originally built as a coaching inn around 1780, serves up traditional Welsh dishes made with fresh local produce. Another former coaching inn, the White Lion Royal Hotel Restaurant, boasts a spacious dining room complete with log fires and a selection of Brains real ales. There's no shortage of charming B&Bs, guest houses, and inns in the town and surrounding area. Get all the latest Gwynedd news by signing up to our newsletter - sent every Tuesday Look for places near you
