Our Story, Our Setting
A Peaceful Working Farm Stay in the Heart of North Wales
Highland Cow Camping is a small, family-run farm campsite near Llanuwchllyn and Bala, created for guests who want to experience the beauty of the North Wales countryside at a slower pace. Surrounded by open fields, mountain views, and the charm of rural life, our site blends traditional Welsh farming heritage with welcoming camping pitches and cosy cottages — offering a relaxed and authentic base for exploring Eryri
5* Reviews
Join the many happy guests who have experienced the peaceful charm of Highland Cow Camping.
Our Farm & Way of Life
Highland Cow Camping is proudly set on a peaceful working farm near Llanuwchllyn, where the natural rhythm of the countryside creates a calm and welcoming atmosphere for every guest. Farming has always been at the heart of this landscape, and we’ve carefully developed the campsite and cottages to sit comfortably within the surrounding fields and mountain views. Our iconic Highland cows are part of the character of the farm, adding to the unique rural experience that makes a stay here feel special and authentic. Rather than a busy commercial park, we focus on creating a small, friendly environment where guests can enjoy space, fresh air, and the slower pace of life that North Wales is known for.
Staying with us offers a chance to reconnect with nature — from peaceful mornings with birdsong to evenings spent watching the sunset over the hills. We believe that simple moments, genuine hospitality, and a connection to the land are what make a countryside break truly memorable.
Our Campsite Pitches
Tent Pitches
Enjoy a relaxed camping experience on our spacious grass tent pitches, each with electric hook-ups available for extra comfort.
Campervan Pitches
Our fully serviced hardstanding touring pitches are perfect for campervans and motorhomes, offering generous space and convenient 16-amp electric hook-ups.
Seasonal Pitches
Make Highland Cow Camping your home away from home with our seasonal pitches. Designed for guests who want to return throughout the year.
A Relaxed Stay Close to Nature
Highland Cow Camping was created for people who want more than just a place to sleep — it’s a base for relaxation, adventure, and meaningful time outdoors. Whether you’re visiting with a tent, touring in a campervan, or settling into one of our cosy self-catering cottages, you’ll find a laid-back setting designed to help you switch off from busy everyday life. Spacious pitches, practical facilities, and open views give you the freedom to enjoy your stay your own way, whether that means quiet evenings by a fire pit or early mornings exploring local trails.
Our location near Bala places you right on the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia), making it easy to discover mountain walks, scenic cycling routes, lakeside activities, and charming Welsh villages. After a day of exploring, guests often return to the farm for the simple pleasure of peace and quiet — a place where nature, comfort, and a warm welcome come together to create a truly relaxing North Wales escape.
Our Cottages
Ty Mawr
Ty Mawr is a charming countryside cottage set within the peaceful surroundings of Highland Cow Camping, offering a warm and comfortable retreat after a day exploring Bala and the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia).
Tal-y-bont
Tal-y-bont offers a peaceful home-from-home stay, combining traditional character with the comfort you need for a restful break in the Welsh countryside.
Peaceful Working Farm Setting
Experience a truly relaxing stay surrounded by open countryside, mountain views, and the charm of a friendly Welsh working farm. Perfect for switching off and reconnecting with nature.
Spacious Pitches with Modern Facilities
Enjoy the balance of rural camping and comfort, with fully serviced touring pitches, electric tent pitches, clean shower facilities, and practical on-site amenities designed for an easy stay.
Ideal Base for Bala & Eryri
Located near Llanuwchllyn and Bala, Highland Cow Camping is perfectly placed for walking, cycling, water activities, and exploring the stunning landscapes of North Wales right from your doorstep.
Things To do nearby
Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid)
Located at the southern tip of the lake, enjoy sailing, kayaking, and canoeing with Bala Adventure and Watersports.
Bala Lake Railway
A narrow-gauge railway running from Llanuwchllyn to Bala, offering scenic views.
Outdoor Activities
Excellent hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling routes are available, including the trails at Coed y Brenin.
White Water Rafting
The National White Water Centre on the River Tryweryn is nearby for high-adrenaline rafting.
Heritage & Culture
Visit the Llechwedd Slate Caverns or the Corris Craft Centre in nearby Machynlleth.
Sightseeing
Explore the nearby market town of Bala (approx. 5 miles), Lake Vyrnwy, or take a trip to the coast at Barmouth or Harlech beaches.
Local Produce
Visit Stori Beer & Wine or Cocoa Bala in Bala for local, artisanal treats.
Rainy Days
For rainy days, the Corris Mine Explorers and the Roomination Escape Rooms in Llanfyllin offer indoor fun.
We stayed in Ty Mawr cottage for our anniversary and it was perfection. The views across the countryside are stunning, and the cottage itself has so much character. It was the perfect 'slow-down' break we needed. We spent our evenings by the fire pit under the stars. The hosts are incredibly welcoming and clearly take great pride in the farm. We cannot wait to return!
- Chloe and James
It can be hard to find a farm stay that is truly dog-friendly, but Highland Cow Camping got it spot on. As long as you keep your pups on a lead (which is only fair given the beautiful cattle nearby!), it’s a brilliant base. We stayed in Tal-y-bont cottage and it was so cosy and warm. The kitchen had everything we needed for a self-catering stay. Highly recommend for a relaxing break with your four-legged friends.
- Bethan R.
We’ve stayed at many sites across North Wales, but this is now one of our favourites. The hard-standing pitches are level and spacious, with easy-access electric hook-ups that worked perfectly for our motorhome. It’s a very tidy site with a lovely communal seating area. Being a working farm, it has such an authentic feel. We’ll definitely be looking into their seasonal pitches for next year!
- Sandra and Mike W.
Ideally located for anyone exploring the mountains near Bala. I booked a grass tent pitch for a few nights of solo hiking. The site is incredibly quiet, and the 'silence after midnight' rule is actually respected here, which is rare! I loved having access to a tumble dryer to dry off my gear after a rainy day on the hills. Waking up to the mist over the fields with the cows grazing nearby was pure peace.
- Gareth L.
Absolutely loved our stay at Highland Cow Camping! The views across the North Wales countryside were stunning, and the cottages were spotless and cosy. Waking up to the sound of birds and seeing the Highland cows nearby made it extra special. We’ll definitely be back.
- Hannah W
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a stay at Highland Cow Camping unique?
The heart of our site is our resident Highland cattle. Guests have the opportunity to view and photograph these iconic shaggy cows in their natural farm setting. For those wanting a closer encounter, we offer dedicated Highland Cow Experiences (bookable in advance) where you can learn about the breed, brush them, and even hand-feed them approved treats like carrots or apples.
Are dogs and other pets allowed on the site?
Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome at Highland Cow Camping (maximum of two per booking). however, because we are a working farm with free-roaming livestock, we have a strict zero-tolerance policy for dogs off leads. All dogs must be kept on a lead at all times to ensure the safety of our Highland cows and other guests.
What are the quiet hours and noise policies?
To maintain the tranquil atmosphere of the North Wales countryside, we ask for quiet talking only after 11 pm and complete silence after midnight. We do not allow sound systems or noisy devices at any time; however, acoustic instruments are permitted until 10 pm. Please note that generators and drones are strictly prohibited.
Can we have campfires or BBQs during our stay?
Absolutely. We provide metal fire pits for hire, and sustainably sourced wood is available for purchase on-site. To protect our grazing land, we ask that you do not light fires directly on the ground or use “disposable” BBQs on the grass. All fires must be fully extinguished by midnight.
What types of accommodation do you offer?
We cater to all types of outdoor enthusiasts:
Tent Pitches: Spacious grass pitches with optional electric hook-ups.
Touring Pitches: Hard-standing, level bases with electric hook-ups for campervans and motorhomes.
Self-Catering Cottages: Our two cottages, Ty Mawr and Tal-y-bont, offer traditional charm with modern comforts like fully equipped kitchens and heating.
Seasonal Pitches: For those who wish to make the farm their regular retreat in Eryri (Snowdonia).
What on-site facilities are available for campers?
Our modern facility block includes clean toilets and hot showers, a dedicated dishwashing room, and a laundry area with a washing machine and tumble dryer. We also provide a communal fridge-freezer and an outdoor seating area for all guests to enjoy.
Is the site suitable for families and children?
Yes, we are a family-friendly site. Children often find the open space and the chance to see Highland cows a highlight of their trip. We simply ask that children are supervised at all times due to the nature of the working farm and the proximity of large livestock.
What are the check-in and departure times?
Camping & Touring: Arrival is from 3 pm until 10:30 pm. Departure is by 11 am.
Cottages: Guests will receive specific arrival details following their booking, as times may vary slightly.
If you expect to arrive after 10:30 pm, please notify us in advance so we can assist you.
Are there any restrictions on group bookings?
Highland Cow Camping is a quiet, family-oriented destination. To preserve this environment, we do not accept bookings for stag parties, hen dos, or large groups of men. We also require a minimum of 6 metres between tents of different groups to ensure everyone has sufficient privacy.
Where is the site located and what is nearby?
We are located in Llanuwchllyn, near the town of Bala in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia). We are ideally placed for exploring Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid), hiking local mountain trails, or simply enjoying the scenic landscapes of North Wales. Free on-site parking is provided for all guests.
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