TELLY daredevil Bear Grylls has said Snowdonia is his ultimate adventure destination – and even reckons a visit can make you a better person.

The 41-year-old star, who lives in Abersoch for part of the year, singled out the national park’s bold terrain and world class outdoor attractions as a paradise for adrenaline sports fans.

Speaking as official Ambassador for the Wales 2016 Year of Adventure campaign, he also praised the life-changing benefits of activities such as high-velocity zip lining, cave jumping, white water rafting and open-sea RIB riding, all of which are hosted in the area.

He said: “When you take people outside and get them to have a few adventures, the skills they learn are positivity, courage, determination and resourcefulness.

“Taking part in activities is about empowering people and we see people’s confidence and pride grow.

“Spending time doing something different and challenging yourself can really show people what they are made of.”

He added: “I’ve had amazing experiences in Wales with my Survival Academy; the beautiful, rugged and wild terrain of Snowdonia lends itself so well to so many activities and adventures.”

The SAS reservist, author and philanthropist, whose status as the world’s leading adventurer saw him instruct President Barack Obama in survival techniques in Alaska last year, also revealed his deep love for Mount Snowdon.

He said: “Snowdon is an international icon and encapsulates the spirit of Wales and the Welsh people. It’s a place where dreams are hatched and challenges fulfilled. I’m delighted to be an ambassador, Wales is where the adventure starts in 2016.”

Bear, who has a home on Saint Tudwal’s Island West, off the coast of Abersoch, is backed in his support of Snowdonia as a global outdoor pursuits destination by Clwyd South AM and Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, Ken Skates.

Mr Skates said: “The Year of Adventure will see a series of major events and activities of considerable international significance.

The year will build on world-first attractions, such as the biggest inland surfing centre on the planet at Surf Snowdonia and the fastest zip wire adventure on earth at Zip World, both supported by Welsh Government.”