Overview The first and only hostel in Wales to have been awarded the coveted five-star rating from Visit Wales, Plas Curig is a former YHA hostel given an impressive makeover. The staff is friendly, and a room is a fraction of the price of many charmless identikit hotel chains. The decor is colourful and there’s a spacious communal kitchen.

The views from the hostel over the hills and mountains are bound to tempt you out for a hike, or any number of outdoor activities on offer in the area. Owner Amy McIntyre says she was inspired by some of the beautiful hostels she found on her travels in Asia and wanted to bring “affordable luxury” to the UK. 

Wow factor Stepping out into the gorgeous Snowdonia National Park with babbling streams in the mountain village of Capel Curig, just a few miles from tourist fave, the village of Betws-y-Coed.

Rooms If you don’t fancy sharing one of the four-bed bunk dorm rooms, there’s the option of a family-sized room. All are clean and cosy.

Bill, please Dorm beds from £22.50pppn – cracking value.

snowdoniahostel.co.uk