St Curig's Church "Praise be! Worship at the altar of divine renovation." REVIEW : This converted church is Capel's most stunning residence. Shoot pool under the ornate dome of the apse, chill on the comfy sofas and take breakfast in the contemporary mezzanine kitchen, where light through stained-glass windows dapples the room. For leg-weary walkers, the four-poster beds are heavenly. Passing through tiny Capel Curig, you could be forgiven for overlooking this place. Perched up on the hill at the western edge of the village, it looks pretty much like any other chapel in Snowdonia. But stop! Hit the brakes and head up the drive to the weighty front door. On the other side lies probably your most memorable night in North Wales. The four en-suite rooms would grace any plush hotel, with opulent fittings and (for the two doubles) hand-carved four-posters. This is a true romantic hideaway, but it's the body of the church that blows your socks off - stained glass, elaborate mosaics and domed ceilings. As an extra twist, it's owned by aristocracts. What could be more classically British? AUTHOR EXPERIENCE : Capel Curig's big draw is Plas y Brenin, the National Mountain Centre. Book yourself a course and learn the ropes for alpine climbing or even mountain leadership. You're in true climbing country here, so get your boots on and head to Pen-y-Pass for the Snowdon summit paths. If that's all a bit energetic, potter around the village and check out the bar in the rock face at Cobden's Hotel. CURIOUS FACT : Much to the chagrin of fussy locals, St Curig's has a garden hot tub. Don't forget your trunks! |