Welsh Heritage Center

To the uninitiated, the Welsh language presents a pronunciation nightmare. Simply asking for directions to Aberystwyth or Llwyndafydd can turn into a daunting if not hilarious experience.

Enter Nant Gwrtheyrn, a language and heritage center on Wales’ spectacular and remote Llyn Peninsula. It specializes in inexpensive, intensive courses that can be as short as “Welsh in a Day” to those lasting a week or more.

Headquartered in renovated buildings of a granite-quarrying village founded in the 1800s, the center offers housing and full board at reasonable cost. In addition to demystifying the language, Nant Gwrtheyrn’s location is ideal for those wishing to explore the spectacular coastline and castle-studded interior of the Llyn Peninusla or tramp nearby Snowdonia National Park.

I was hosted by the heritage center on a day visit in June ’04. I took a half-day introductory class, learning greetings, how to ask for directions, basics of pronunciation etc., then toured the facility, met with the director and had lunch.

Course prices include tuition fees, an afternoon of speaking practice, meals and evening activities. The “daily” rate is $165 for three days, $265 for five or $535 for 12. For full board, it’s $245, $395 or $795, respectively; add £5 per night for a room to yourself.

For information, contact Nant Gwrtheyrn, Llithfaen, Pwilheil, Gwynedd, LL53 6PA, Wales, U.K.; phone 01758 750334, fax 01758 750335 or visit www. nantgwrtheyrn.org.

YVONNE HORN
Kenwood, CA