Wales has almost 8000 square miles of staggering beauty. This rugged country is home to mountainous National Parks, remote coastlines, spectacular castles and heritage steam railways.
Here’s our top 5 must sees:
Snowdon:
At the heart of Snowdonia National Park, Snowdon is the tallest mountain in Wales and it’s also the busiest – it even has a welcome centre at the top. However, apart from the summit, you can escape the crowds as there are 6 paths up – all pretty strenuous and between 3 and 4 miles each way. Tip – the Ryd Dhu path is the quietest and the Pyg track, with its dangerous ridge section, should only be attempted by the very experienced. If serious hiking isn’t your thing, there’s a scenic rack and pinion railway to the summit. No matter how you get there, the views of the coast, mountains and lakes are phenomenal.
The Pembrokeshire Coast:
The Pembrokeshire Coast has dazzling beaches, hidden coves , wildlife packed cliffs and the picture perfect town of Tenby. You are spoilt for choice with beaches, our favourites include: Barafundle Bay – pristine, backed with dunes and pine trees and accessed by a half mile walk; Church Doors Cove – small and remote, but featuring spectacular cliff formations including a massive arch; and Castle Beach, Tenby – perfect sand (2 miles at low tide), an island and castle view, plus a backdrop of the pastel painted town. Tenby actually has 3 amazing beaches, plus don’t miss the 13th century walls and wandering amongst the colourful Georgian houses.
Conwy:
The 13th century town of Conwy has a world famous Castle, medieval city walls and is a World Heritage site. The spectacular 8 turreted castle is 700 years old. Don’t miss the medieval royal apartments and walking the whole circuit of the battlements for spectacular views of Snowdon, the town and the coast. The town is also enclosed by spectacular medieval walls complete with turrets and gateways – one of the best examples in Europe. Don’t miss walking the 1.2 kilometre ring with the best views of the harbour and narrow cobbled streets. We almost preferred the wall walk to the actual castle. To refuel, head to L’s Coffee & Books for huge portions of deliciously, healthy food and sublime cakes.
Porthdinllaen:
Porthdinllaen is our top coastal village in the UK. The old fishing hamlet sits directly on a sheltered beach and is only reachable by foot. It’s a 20 minute walk from the car park and involves a scramble/paddle at high tide. It’s home to possibly the best located pub in the world – the Ty Coch Inn– right on the beach. You can relax in the pub or kayak, swim or snorkel in the clear waters of the beautiful bay.
Caerphilly Castle:
Caerphilly Castle is our favourite castle in Wales (sorry Caernarfon). It’s dramatic and immense. At 30 acres, only Windsor is larger in the UK. The fortress has concentric ringed walls, the massive east gatehouse, vast battlements, a moat (and lakes) and even a leaning tower. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Cardiff area. Also check out the local Caerphilly cheese -mild, crumbly and delicious.