Regardless of being born in Wales and spending a few years dwelling within the nation, I haven’t as but shared any content material about Wales on this web site. Effectively, that’s about to alter.
Wales is a spectacular nation with lots to supply and its comparatively small dimension means you can see lots in a 1-week highway journey. On this information we’re going to share our concept of the right Wales highway journey you probably have 7 to 10 days.
This itinerary features a little little bit of every little thing Wales has to supply, which incorporates gorgeous coastlines, mountain hikes, seashores, castles, museums, Welsh cultural points of interest, and extra. The itinerary was designed to provide you a style of the very best of Wales and contains every little thing from tiny rural villages to the capital metropolis of Cardiff.
Wales actually does have one thing to supply everybody, and this highway journey goes to take you throughout Wales. We’ll share a few of our favorite issues to see and do, and likewise provide recommendations on the place to remain, and what to eat. However you’ll be able to in fact regulate it the way you need.
Personally, we expect Wales has surroundings to rival different in style highway journeys within the UK, like Scotland’s North Coast 500, however we are going to allow you to resolve if that’s the case as you learn the information.
By the tip of this put up, you’ll be able to set off in your very personal Welsh highway journey! Let’s begin by answering some questions you may need.
How Lengthy to Street Journey in Wales?
Wales will not be an enormous nation, however there’s a big quantity to see. We might say that the minimal period of time for a highway journey masking part of the nation can be three to 5 days. In the event you don’t have lots of time we’d maybe counsel focusing both on North Wales or South Wales.
If you wish to see extra of what’s on provide, and discover the nation from high to backside, then we’d advocate at the least 7 – 10 days.
The itinerary on this information is for a 7 to 10-day highway journey, however in fact you’ll be able to regulate it based mostly in your pursuits and time. You probably have extra time, there’s at all times extra to see and we’d advocate spending longer in every space of curiosity.
Embrace Wales as A part of a Longer UK journey?
Many individuals are visiting Wales as a part of an extended tour of Nice Britain that will additionally embody England, Scotland, Northern Eire, and/or Eire. It’s simple to incorporate Wales as half of a bigger journey.
Once more, we’d advocate at the least 3 days if you wish to go to Wales and in the event you solely have 3 to five days we’d simply follow specializing in both North Wales or South Wales.
However ideally you’ll have at the least 5 to 7 days to dedicate to Wales if you wish to see various its highlights lined on this itinerary.
If you’re following our 2 week UK itinerary, you’ll be able to add time in Wales. Round day 3 or 4 of that itinerary, I’d begin this Wales itinerary and comply with Days 1 by way of 8 after which head north to Chester after which up in direction of Manchster.
See our detailed UK itinerary information for extra data on that.
If you’re additionally wanting to go to different elements of the UK or Eire as a part of a tour, you would possibly contemplate becoming a member of up excursions similar to with native tour firm Rabbie’swhere you’ll be able to take a collection of excursions exploring totally different elements of England, Wales, Scotland, and Eire.
What’s the Greatest Approach to Get Round in Wales?
There are a couple of totally different choices for getting round in Wales, together with native buses and a regional practice community. Nevertheless, because the title of this put up suggests, my really helpful technique to journey round Wales is by automobile.
There are a terrific many sights and points of interest in Wales that may actually solely be visited in a car as there’s no public transport to achieve them. Assume distant castles, far-flung stretches of shoreline, and so forth.
The highway journey we’ve put collectively is predicated on you having a automobile. In the event you don’t have your individual automobile, we’d extremely advocate choosing up a automobile rental, or contemplate becoming a member of a tour.
Because it’s more economical to choose up and drop off a automobile in the identical spot, we’ve chosen Cardiff as the very best location to begin and finish this journey. Cardiff will be simply reached by rail and coach from places across the UK.
On a current journey to Wales we rented a automobile from Enterprise as they’d a location close to Cardiff’s foremost practice station, which made decide up and drop off simple. Nevertheless, we’d additionally recommending utilizing a worth comparability service like Rental Automobiles or Uncover Automobiles, to see if there’s a greater choice to your journey.
In the event you would favor to not drive, then we’d as an alternative counsel trying into taking a tour of Wales. These will be completed as personal excursions or you’ll be able to be part of a bunch tour and the excursions.
Excursions of Wales
In the event you like the concept of visiting Wales however would fairly not drive, then the best choice is to take a tour. While there’s some public transportation, lots of the sights and points of interest are just a little off the crushed monitor and aren’t properly served by public transport.
There are nonetheless some glorious excursions we are able to advocate. While none of them will precisely mirror our advised Wales highway journey itinerary, lots of them do embody at the least among the foremost points of interest we cowl.
You’ll be able to be part of a guided tour or you probably have a much bigger finances or a big group, you may additionally contemplate a personal tour. The longer Wales excursions typically depart from London, Bristol, or Cardiff.
Some we advise are as follows:
This 5 day highway journey with Rabbies can be our first decide of obtainable excursions. We’ve taken a terrific many excursions with Rabbie’s and we love their educated driver guides and small group sizes. This tour departs from London and canopy lots of the identical floor as our route, from Snowdonia all the way down to south west Wales.
This 8 day tour from Cardiff follows the same path to our advised Wales itinerary, and contains time in Cardiff, the Brecon Beacons mountains, Snowdonia Nationwide Park, Conwy Citadel, St. Davids, Tenby, and the Pembrokeshire Coast Nationwide Park.
This 3 day tour with Rabbies departs from Bristol and focuses on the highlights of south Wales, together with Carreg Cennen Citadel, Hay on Wye, St. Davids, Tenby and the Pembrokeshire Coast Nationwide Park. You probably have extra time, you can even do their North Wales tour.
This 3 day tour with Rabbies departs from Bristol and covers the highlights of North Wales. It contains Snowdonia Nationwide Parks, Conwy Citadel, Harlech Citadel, the Slate Museum, and Portmeirion.
There are in fact extra excursions to select from in Wales. See this choice from a spread of operators on TourRadar which can allow you to kind and filter by length, locations visited and worth.
10 Day Wales Street Journey Itinerary
Okay, let’s get on with this highway journey round Wales! The explanation we are saying this highway journey is 7 – 10 days is as a result of I’ve added a few days in Cardiff initially.
The Welsh capital metropolis has lots to supply, from glorious museums to citadel ruins and sporting points of interest.
There’s actually sufficient right here to fill at the least two days. Nevertheless, you probably have much less time or would fairly simply hit the highway and never give attention to metropolis points of interest, it’s possible you’ll desire to give attention to the highway journey part of this itinerary fairly than the time in Cardiff. It’s as much as you!
Jess and I did this precise highway journey, with two full days in Cardiff after which eight days on the highway round Wales. We began and led to Cardiff. It was a superb journey, and one we’re delighted to have the ability to share with you.
Elements of this highway journey comply with the Wales Method driving tour routes (you’ll be able to see extra about these right here), that are promoted by the Go to Wales tourism board to focus on among the greatest surroundings and points of interest that Wales has to supply.
They embody The Cambrian Method, The Coastal Method, and The North Wales Method. You’ll be driving sections of all these routes utilizing our itinerary however we have now adjusted it to additionally embody a lot of my different favourite sights and points of interest.
Word that this itinerary covers lots of floor and every day has various advised points of interest. Relying in your pursuits you’ll want to regulate it to swimsuit what you actually need to see and do fairly than attempting to do completely every little thing.
If you would like a extra slower paced journey, we’d counsel seeing much less every day and spending at the least 2 nights at every location. You could possibly simply do that full itinerary in 2 weeks and have extra time to chill out and see issues extra slowly.
Day 1 – Cardiff
Your first day has you beginning in Cardiff, the Welsh capital since 1955. Cardiff is straightforward to get to from places across the UK and overseas, with rail, highway, and air hyperlinks that can allow you to get right here in the best way that most closely fits your journey.
We’d counsel that to your time in Cardiff you get round both on foot or by public transport. Nearly all of points of interest within the metropolis centre are simple to stroll to, or to go to by bus. I’d advise towards driving across the metropolis centre as you’ll must cope with navigation and discovering parking.
In your first day within the metropolis, our really helpful first cease can be the Museum of Cardiff.
This glorious free museum tells the story of the town over the centuries, from the Neolithic interval to the current day. It’s a superb technique to orient your self to the town and stand up to hurry with its historical past. It’s one among our favorite museums in Cardiff.
Subsequent, we’d advocate popping throughout the highway to the Cardiff Market. It is a 2 storey Victorian shopping center, opened in 1891, the place you’ll discover a wide range of retailers promoting all method of products.
There are additionally meals stalls right here in case you are hungry.
From Cardiff Market, proceed north to Cardiff Citadel, your subsequent cease for the day.
On this highway journey, you’re going to see fairly a couple of castles. Wales has a panorama that lends itself to constructing castles, and a historical past of princes and wars that required these defensive constructions. In actual fact there are over 400 castles within the nation! So that you do must be selective during which castles you select to go to.
Nevertheless, we’d argue that you simply’re not going to see something fairly like Cardiff Citadel wherever else in your Welsh highway journey.
Cardiff Citadel takes you on a journey of chateau constructing by way of the ages. There was some kind of fortified development right here because the Romans constructed a fort right here within the third century. In actual fact, a part of the previous Roman wall can nonetheless be seen.
Nevertheless, the massive stone preserve atop the hill that can catch your eye as you stroll in dates from the twelfth century.
Round the remainder of citadel grounds you’ll discover a vary of buildings from numerous durations in historical past, together with a nineteenth century gothic revivalist addition that features a large clock tower and gorgeous interiors.
There’s a lot to see and do at Cardiff Citadel, together with numerous excursions and reveals that vary from world struggle two air raid shelters to a regimental museum. We’d advocate planning on spending at the least two or three hours right here as there’s tons to see right here.
You’ll be able to stroll by way of the grounds of Cardiff Citadel without spending a dime, however to go inside, stroll the partitions, or go to the reveals you will have to pay for a ticket. The ticket worth is properly value it in our opinion.
Relying on how your day goes you should still have time for one more sight. In that case, we’d counsel strolling over to the Nationwide Museum Cardiff. This massive free museum (donations welcome) has reveals of artwork, pure historical past and geology, and is an effective technique to end off your first day in Wales.
Day 1 Highlights: Museum of Cardiff, Cardiff Market, Cardiff Citadel, Nationwide Museum of Cardiff
Day 1 Driving Distance: 0 miles
Day 1 Driving Time: 0 hours
Day 1 Lodging: In your first night time we’d advocate staying in central Cardiff. This will probably be handy for sightseeing, in addition to for consuming out. Listed below are some advised choices to think about:
Metropolis Middle condo – It is a pretty condo simply minutes stroll from the town middle and practice station. We’ve stayed right here and may advocate it.
Sleeperz Resort Cardiff – a superb worth centrally situated lodge providing air conditioned rooms, restaurant, and bar
Resort Indigo Cardiff – a pleasant lodge in a terrific location with air conditioned rooms, restaurant and bar. We now have stayed at various Indigo branded motels and at all times had a superb expertise.
Clayton Resort Cardiff – a properly reviewed lodge subsequent to the practice station with clear and comfy rooms
Parador 44 – a phenomenal upmarket boutique B&B type lodge with its personal backyard proper within the middle of Cardiff
Day 2 – Cardiff
In the event you’d desire to move out of city right this moment you’ll be able to in fact do this, and spend extra time on the highway. Nevertheless, assuming you wish to do some extra sightseeing in Cardiff we’re going to advocate you head to the Cardiff Bay space of city.
Cardiff is situated on the Bristol Channel, though you gained’t have seen the water but as the town middle space is a few mile away. Nevertheless, you’ll be able to simply attain this space in a 20 minute stroll or a brief bus experience.
The Baycar bus (service 6) runs from central Cardiff to the Cardiff Bay space 4 or 5 instances an hour and the journey is only a few minutes. Alternatively, you would possibly desire to take the Cardiff hop on hop off bus which may also convey you right here as a part of its sightseeing route round Cardiff.
At Cardiff Bay there’s loads to see. First, you’ll seemingly see the massive Wales Millenium Centre. This nationwide arts centre is a venue for the performing arts and is the place to come back to see stay performances of every little thing from music to bounce. There are additionally retailers, bars, and cafes on web site, and it’s value popping inside to see if there are any non permanent reveals occurring whenever you go to.
From right here you’ll be able to stroll throughout to the Roald Dahl plaza. Named for the well-known youngsters’s books writer who was born in Cardiff (books embody Charlie and the Chocolate Manufacturing unit, James and the Big Peach, and Matilda), this sunken plaza typically performs host to numerous gala’s, festivals, and stay music performances.
You’ll now be close to the waterline. In the event you head east, you’ll first move the Pierhead constructing, an enormous crimson brick constructing with a clock tower which is difficult to overlook. That is residence to a museum the place you’ll be able to be taught concerning the historical past of Wales.
Subsequent door to the Pierhead constructing is the Senedd constructing, residence of the Welsh parliament. It is a placing trendy constructing which you’ll go to in case you are excited by studying concerning the technique of democracy in Wales. There are additionally typically exhibitions of Welsh artwork and crafts inside, so it’s properly value taking a cease right here.
From the Senedd, you’ll be able to proceed alongside the coastal path to the east on the Cardiff Bay path stroll. There are numerous highlights alongside the route, together with the Norwegian Church Arts Centre which gives a restaurant, pretty views of the Bay, and an artwork gallery.
It’s as much as you if you wish to proceed at this level. The path continues for miles alongside the bay and if it’s a pleasant day it’s actually a stunning stroll all the best way to the Cardiff Bay Barrage. It was the development of the barrage within the Nineteen Nineties which created this pretty harbour space.
From right here, fairly than stroll all the best way again, you’ll be able to as an alternative hop on a ship that can take you again to the Quay space. You’ll positively need to test the working timetables upfront, which you are able to do right here. You’ll be able to e book tickets on-line upfront right here.
After all, as an alternative of (or in addition to!) strolling all the best way to the barrage you’ll be able to discover the world across the Senedd, often called Mermaid’s Quay. Right here you’re going to seek out all method of outlets and eating places, in addition to a ship quay the place you’ll be able to take boat excursions of Cardiff Bay.
There are additionally a few different points of interest within the space. First is the fairly eclectic Ianto’s Shrine. If you’re not aware of the TV present “Torchwood”, which was set in Cardiff, then this may seemingly be considerably complicated. The shrine is to Ianto, a personality who dies within the present.
It’s truly one of many largest and most well-maintained shrines to a fictional character wherever on this planet, so value a couple of moments of your time!
The opposite attraction within the space is Techniquest, which is a family-friendly science museum. If you’re visiting Wales with youngsters, then this paid attraction will certainly preserve them entertained for a while as there are over 100 hand-on reveals to see, contact, and discover.
That appears like sufficient to your second day in Cardiff, though there’s nonetheless loads to see together with extra museums and loads of retailers. Cardiff can also be residence to the Principality Stadium which performs host to main sporting and music occasions all year long.
There are additionally numerous different venues across the metropolis for stay music and leisure if that’s one thing you have an interest in. On a current go to to Cardiff we loved watching a stay efficiency at Porter’s Cardiff for instance.
And naturally there are lots of pubs, golf equipment, and different nightlife hangouts in Cardiff.
In the event you’re into historic pubs, among the oldest in Cardiff are The Rummer Tavern, Cardiff Cottage, The Goat Main, and The Nice Western. So you should have no scarcity of locations to go for a drink or a chunk to eat!
Talking of meals, if you wish to attempt some conventional Welsh dishes similar to Lamb Cawl or Welsh rarebit, The Welsh Home in Cardiff is a favorite of ours. They normally have various conventional dishes on the menu, and the costs are additionally affordable.
Day 2 Highlights: Cardiff Bay, Wales Millenium Centre, Norwegian Church Arts Centre, Bay boat tour / stroll, Techniquest
Day 2 Driving Distance: 0 miles
Day 2 Driving Time: 0 hours
Day 2 Lodging: In a single day in Cardiff (identical as Day 1)
Day 3 – Cardiff to Tenby
It’s time to hit the highway! If you’re choosing up a rental automobile, you’ll need to e book this for earlier within the morning as you’re going to have a busy day right this moment.
Your first cease for the day is simply exterior of Cardiff, the St. Fagan’s Nationwide Museum of Historical past. It’s about 20 minutes’ drive from central Cardiff.
It is a sensible free outside museum which options over forty unique buildings unfold out throughout 100 acres of parkland. These buildings span a large time interval, and offers you an actual perception into how Welsh folks have lived, labored, realized, and performed over time.
There are farmhouses, schoolhouses, pubs, and union buildings, nearly all of which you’ll go inside and discover. It’s additionally a dwelling museum, with stay workshops and demonstrations of conventional expertise and crafts like ironmongery and farming.
It’s a giant web site with lots to see, so we’d advocate planning on spending at the least 90 minutes to 2 hours right here. There’s additionally a restaurant on-site which serves good meals in addition to espresso and different scorching drinks. There’s a big carpark on web site with a modest payment for parking.
From Cardiff you’re going to proceed to move west to your subsequent cease, Castell Carreg Cennen.
The quickest choice to get to right here will usually be to comply with the M4 round Swansea, which is what we’d advocate you do. After all, in the event you would favor a extra scenic route be at liberty to comply with the roads as much as Glynneath and throughout. Simply pay attention to timing as you’ve lots to see right this moment.
Castell Carreg Cennen, or Carreg Cennen Citadel, is a dramatically positioned crumbling citadel which dates from the early 14th century. There’s a little bit of an uphill stroll to get to the citadel, however we’d say the views of the encircling panorama and the citadel itself are properly definitely worth the effort.
Fairly a little bit of the citadel survives, together with lots of the towers, partitions and preserve. There are data panels on web site and there’s a superb cafe on the backside of the hill the place you park as properly. We’d estimate you’ll want round an hour on web site.
The Citadel does have an entry payment. It’s managed by Cadw, a department of the Welsh Authorities liable for preservation of historic websites in Wales.
Cadw gives an annual membership, which supplies you free entry to all of the Cadw places, amongst different advantages.
Numerous the sights you’re going to be seeing on this journey are going to be lined by the membership and in the event you go to nearly all of them you’ll positively avoid wasting cash. You should buy this on-line right here, or in individual at most Cadw websites.
We predict that is very a lot value it and we at all times get a CADW membership if we plan on sightseeing in Wales.
From Castell Carreg it’s a 20 minute drive to the following cease for the day, the Nationwide Belief Dinefwr web site. That is truly two sights, the seventeenth century Newton Home and the twelfth century Dinefwr Citadel, discovered round a mile aside.
If the climate is sweet, we are able to extremely advocate taking a while to discover the grounds right here and to stroll as much as Dinefwr Citadel. There are some actually pretty strolling trails across the grounds, which wend their means by way of stunning mature woodlands.
You can too go to Newton Home itself in fact, which has a separate entry payment (free for Nationwide Belief members). There may be paid parking on web site (additionally free to Nationwide Belief members).
It’s round an hour’s drive to the final cease of the day, the lovable seaside city of Tenby. If you would like one thing further to see on the best way, and you actually love castles, be at liberty to detour to Laugharne Citadel, though we really feel you could have seen sufficient castles for the day and be able to chill out by this level.
Tenby is a well-liked and picturesque seaside city with colourful homes forming a line above the massive seaside and curved harbour. There are many locations to eat, store ,and keep. If you’re not too drained, we’d advocate a stroll to the headland to see the ruins of Tenby Citadel and a stroll on the seaside.
After all, you can even do these items on the morning of your fourth day as properly. And that’s the tip of your first day on the highway!
Day 3 Highlights: St. Fagan’s Nationwide Museum of Historical past, Castell Carreg Cennen, Dinefwr Citadel, Tenby
Day 3 Driving Distance: 110 miles
Day 3 Driving Time: 2.5 hours
Day 3 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Tenby. There are lots of glorious choices to select from in Tenby and close by, and the city additionally has many good eating choices. Lodging choices we advocate are:
Beachcomber B&B – 5 minutes stroll from the centre of Tenby and the seaside, this very properly rated household run B&B gives snug rooms and a very good breakfast
The Strathmore – this properly rated household run B&B is near Tenby’s south seaside and 5 minutes stroll from the city centre. Snug rooms embody a continental breakfast or breakfast bap.
Coach Visitor Home – a really properly rated trendy household enjoyable B&B simply minutes stroll from Tenby’s seashores and points of interest. Breakfast is included.
Trefloyne Manor – 5 minutes drive from Tenby, this stunning previous manor home gives 12 attractive rooms with en-suite amenities. There’s an on-site restaurant, breakfast is included and there’s even an on-site 18 gap golf course
Day 4 – Tenby to St. David’s
At present you’re going to be exploring the far southwestern nook of Wales, residence to the smallest metropolis within the UK and a shocking coastal Nationwide Park.
Let’s get going.
From Tenby, take a 15 minute drive west to Carew Citadel & Tidal Mill. Because the title suggests, right here you’re going to seek out two points of interest in a single place.
The primary is Carew Citadel, a citadel which dates from the Norman conquest of Britain within the eleventh century. Over time it has had many updates and enhancements, with the ultimate addition being an Elizabethan manor home within the sixteenth century! That makes this fairly the distinctive location to go to in Wales.
The second attraction on the positioning is the Carew Tidal Mill, which is the one restored tidal mill in Wales. This dates from the nineteenth century, and when in operation it used the facility of the tide to energy the mill wheel. It’s not working however it’s open for excursions.
As you’ll be able to see there’s loads to see and do right here, so I’d counsel allocating at the least 90 minutes – 2 hours to your go to. There may be free parking on web site and a payment for admission. It’s not a part of Cadw or another membership program that we’re conscious of.
From Carew Citadel you’ve a couple of choices, all of which contain visiting the Pembrokeshire Nationwide Park. This Nationwide Park stretches throughout the Pembrokeshire coast and gives dramatic clifftop strolling, splendid sea vistas, and wildlife recognizing alternatives.
One good stroll alternative, round a 25 minute drive from Carew Citadel, is the Stack Rock stroll (carpark right here on Google Maps). The automobile park (free) is simply a few hundred metres from the cliff high stroll, and there are nice views of some rock stacks in addition to a rock arch right here.
That is additionally a superb place to see seals and seal pups within the breeding season (normally August by way of January).
In the event you’d prefer to take a hike right here, there’s a stunning stroll alongside the coast to St. Govan’s Chapel. It’s a 6.3 mile stroll, and you may see instructions right here.
An alternative choice in the event you’d desire to spend extra time on the seaside can be to drive additional west to Freshwater West seaside. It is a in style browsing spot the place you’ll discover a lengthy stretch of golden sand backed by dunes.
It’s additionally a Harry Potter filming location – followers of the flicks will certainly need to go to the positioning of Dobby’s Grave. There’s a mound of rocks right here which followers have written tributes on, which makes for a pleasant image. There’s a small automobile park right here in addition to parking alongside the highway.
There are in fact many different walks that you possibly can do right this moment as you head in direction of St. David’s, and you may see a full choice right here.
My private favorite, and the one I’d advocate, is the Marloes Peninsula stroll. That is about an hour’s drive from the Stack Rocks carpark, or 25 minutes from Carew Citadel, relying on what you select to go to right this moment.
The Marloes Peninsula stroll is a 4.4 mile (7.1km) loop stroll which loops across the attractive Marloes peninsula. The stroll is essentially flat with only a few gradients to sort out. There’s a car-park at Marloes Sands (paid).
This stroll was my favorite of all of the walks we did on this space as a result of it provided such spectacular views, in addition to some glorious wildlife recognizing alternatives. We noticed numerous seals and seal pups in addition to a terrific many sea birds.
There have been additionally attractive coastal views and even an iron age hill fort. It took us round 3 hours in complete with numerous picture stops and was properly definitely worth the effort.
From Marloes, one other hour’s drive will convey you to the tiny metropolis of St. David’s the place you’ll spend the night time. Undoubtedly spend a while exploring the city, both this night or on the morning of Day 5.
You’ll discover a pretty previous cathedral, in addition to numerous galleries and retailers. Town is tiny, and it doesn’t take lengthy to stroll round and discover.
In the event you nonetheless need to discover, then we’d counsel strolling the 20 minutes or so out of city to St. Non’s Chapel and Effectively, reputed to be the birthplace of Wales’s patron saint, Saint David, for whom the town is known as.
One other close by attraction is the gorgeous seaside of Whitesands, which makes for a superb place to look at the sundown.
For meals, there are many good eating choices on the town, from eating places to pubs. We’ve had a terrific pub meal at The Bishops, however the Farmer’s Arms can also be a preferred choice for pub meals.
We’d advocate asking your native lodging supplier for ideas as they’ll know the very best native choices open throughout your go to.
Day 4 Highlights: Carew Citadel & Tidal Mill, Pembrokeshire Coastal Walks, St. David’s sights
Day 4 Driving Distance: ~ 70 miles
Day 4 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 4 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) St. David’s. This stunning little metropolis has a spread of lodging choices in addition to various pubs and eating places for meals. We advocate the next choices:
4 Winds B&B – it is a pretty B&B simply 5 minutes stroll from the centre of St. David’s. Proprietor Nikki may be very pleasant, breakfast is great and there are pretty views. We’ve stayed right here and had a stunning night time’s sleep.
Glendower B&B – a properly reviewed B&B only a few minutes stroll from the town middle. Breakfast is included.
St. David’s Cross Resort – a preferred conventional lodge proper within the metropolis middle that includes a restaurant and bar. Breakfast is included.
Twr y Felin Resort – a really properly reviewed centrally situated 4* lodge with a restaurant, room service, and breakfast.
Crug Glass Nation Home – a phenomenal nation home lodge present in a twelfth century farmhouse on a 600 acre working farm. 8 minutes drive from St. David’s. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, and breakfast can also be obtainable.
Day 5 – St. David’s to Aberystwyth
At present you’re going to drive up the sweeping curve of Wales’s west coast. There’s loads to see alongside the best way, together with historical burial chambers, iron age villages, ruined castles, a wildlife middle, stunning seashores, and extra.
We’d counsel choosing some sights that sound probably the most fascinating to you from our options as there’s positively extra to see than you are able to do in a day! Or contemplate doing this over 2 days if you wish to do and see every little thing. In the event you decide to try this, we’d counsel overnighting round Cardigan.
After ending up any sightseeing or memento buying in St. David’s, comply with the A487 for about 45 minutes, simply previous Fishguard. The primary cease for the day is the Pentre Ifan burial chamber.
This 5,000 yr previous tomb has a 16.5ft capstone fastidiously balanced atop three uprights. It’s a few minutes stroll from the free parking place on the highway and entry is free. Simply remember that there the parking spot is sort of small and the highway right here is sort of slender.
From Pentre Ifan, return to the principle highway. If you’re excited by studying about life within the Stone Age, then positively contemplate a go to to Castell Henllys Iron Age Village.
This attraction incorporates a collection of Iron Age roundhouses, constructed the place they initially stood 2,000 years in the past. On web site you can see various costumed interpreters who will share particulars of how folks lived right here through the Iron Age.
Now, proceed on in direction of Cardigan. There are a couple of sights you would possibly contemplate stopping at, relying in your pursuits.
Nature lovers will seemingly need to go to the Welsh Wildlife Centre, the place there’s an interpretive middle, numerous trails, and chook watching hides. It’s free to go to however there’s a small payment for parking. An excellent location for birdwatching on the Tefi Marshes.
A 5 minute drive from the Welsh Wildlife Middle is Cilgerran Citadel. This Norman age citadel initially dates from 1108, though the construction right this moment largely dates from the thirteenth century. It occupies a commanding location above the gorge of the River Tefi and is properly value a go to.
Free for CADW and Nationwide Belief members, small payment in any other case. There’s no parking on web site, comply with indicators to the automobile park. We parked in Cilgerran Decrease automobile park from the place there’s a stunning stroll alongside the river and up the hill to the citadel.
We’d additionally advocate stopping in Cardigan itself. The community-run Cardigan Citadel right here is properly value a go to for a small payment.
You’ll be able to truly keep in a single day right here, which we have now completed, and it has a superb cafe on web site as properly. You probably have extra time, or just need to regulate your schedule, it makes for a superb in a single day keep choice.
From Cardigan, proceed alongside the A487. If you need to take a stroll right this moment, we’d counsel heading as much as Mwnt. There’s a small automobile park at Mwnt head seaside (payment) and you may go to fairly Holy Cross Church. There’s additionally a brief path up the hill right here which gives good views of the coast.
Different good spots alongside the coast to cease as you proceed north embody Penbryn Seaside and the beautiful seaside fishing village of New Quay.
New Quay is an effective location for taking seal-watching boat journeys, in addition to to choose up a scorching plate of fish and chips.
Simply past New Quay you can see the Nationwide Belief property of Llanerchaeron. It is a pretty Georgian villa which additionally gives strolling trails, a walled backyard, and a farmyard residence to numerous Welsh breeds of cattle. There’s a payment to go to, and it’s free for Nationwide belief members.
Lastly, proceed on up the coast to Aberystwyth, the place you’ll spend the night time. It is a mid-size coastal city which is thought for its college. There are additionally various glorious points of interest within the city itself which you’ll both go to right this moment or on the morning of day 6, relying on how your time goes.
We’d positively advocate visiting the Amgueddfa Ceredigion Museum. That is situated in a preserved Edwardian period theatre, which makes for fairly a novel museum location!
The museum has shows on all types of issues, masking native life, artwork, geography, and tradition throughout the ages. It’s additionally free (donations really helpful).
We are able to additionally advocate the Aberystwyth Cliff Railway on the north finish of the promenade. This steep funicular railway has been ferrying folks up and all the way down to the clifftop viewpoint since 1896.
There’s a payment to make use of it, we’d counsel taking the railway up after which strolling down for pretty views of the bay and city beneath.
A stroll across the very ruined Aberystwyth Citadel in the midst of city can also be properly value a couple of minutes of your time. It’s free to go to.
Day 5 Highlights: Pentre Ifan burial chamber, Castell Henllys Iron Age Village, Welsh Wildlife Centre, Cilgerran Citadel, Cardigan Citadel, Holy Cross Church, New Quay, Aberystwyth websites
Day 5 Driving Distance: ~80 miles
Day 5 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 5 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Aberystwyth. The city has lots of lodging choices, many alongside the seaside entrance. Some choices we advocate embody:
Llwynygog Visitor Home – a terrific worth centrally situated family-run guesthouses providing rooms with shared or personal bogs. Word breakfast will not be obtainable.
Bodalwyn Visitor Home – a centrally situated 4* guesthouse a brief stroll from the seaside. All rooms are en-suite. Word breakfast will not be obtainable.
Richmond Resort – this seafront lodge gives attractive views throughout Cardigan Bay from some rooms. A superb breakfast is included. We now have stayed right here and had a stunning night time’s keep.
The Glengower – discovered proper on the seaside, it is a conventional pub with en-suite rooms, a few of which provide spectacular sea views. Breakfast is included.
Townhouse No.1 – a classy boutique lodge in a refurbished Edwardian property with pretty en-suite rooms in addition to two flats. There’s a kitchen with snacks and drinks obtainable, however no breakfast choice.
Day 6 – Aberystwyth to Porthmadog
At present you’re going to proceed touring up the Welsh shoreline, and also you’re going to have choices right this moment for issues to do which can rely upon whether or not you need to do a mountain hike or not. Or in the event you’d desire wildlife watching and coastal cities as an alternative.
You can begin the day by ending any exploration that you simply didn’t get spherical to in Aberystwyth. In your means out of city we are able to extremely advocate dropping in on the Nationwide Library of Wales.
This big constructing has some glorious reveals together with an interactive archive of TV and audio footage, shows of uncommon books, and extra. Free to go to with parking on web site.
Now, you want to resolve between coastal exploration and wildlife viewing, or a hike up a mountain.
If you wish to hike up a mountain right this moment, our suggestion is to drive an hour or so north to the Dôl Idris carpark subsequent to Minffordd. From right here there’s a spectacular stroll up Cadair Idris.
That is one among my favorite hikes in Wales, with views from the highest throughout the entire of the Snowdonia Nationwide Park, together with the shoreline, Snowdon itself, the Mawddach Valley and extra.
I’d say that it is a pretty demanding hike, particularly if tackled from the Minffordd aspect as I like to recommend. Nevertheless, it’s actually value it you probably have the time and bodily capability to take action.
It’s attainable to do that largely as a loop stroll, ascending up one aspect of the lake after which again down the opposite. The paths are properly marked however we’d advocate bringing a map and dressing appropriately for mountain climbing situations. You’ll additionally need to pay attention to the climate and forecast as you’ll need to skip this in dangerous climate situations.
You’ll be able to see an summary of the Minffordd path right here. It’s about 9km (5.59 miles) lengthy. Count on the full hike to take 4 – 6 hours, relying in your health stage and the way typically you cease.
After all there are a great deal of different hikes on this space that you possibly can do as an alternative. If you’re in search of a a lot simpler and shorter hike right here, contemplate the Dôl Idris path which is an all-abilities path that’s a few 1.25 km (0.77 miles) lengthy and is paved in order that it may be accessed by wheelchair customers and people with pushchairs.
In the event you would fairly not sort out a giant hike right this moment (there will probably be extra alternatives in a while within the itinerary!), then there are lots of choices to think about as you head as much as Porthmadog.
We’d counsel choosing these choices which attraction most to you from the choices obtainable as you gained’t be capable to match every little thing in.
First, head up the coast to the coastal city of Borth, the place there’s a protracted promenade you’ll be able to stroll alongside. If you’re fortunate, you may be on the town on one of many days the Borth Station Musuem is open.
It is a pretty tiny museum devoted to the historical past of the railway, recreating the station because it was within the early 1900s. It’s free to go to.
From Borth, drive a few miles additional up the B4353 alongside the coast, and take the turning for Ynyslas Customer Centre, which is a part of the Dyfi Nationwide Nature Reserve.
Right here there are some pretty walks by way of the dunes, that are among the largest within the space.
There’s additionally a pleasant customer middle right here the place you’ll be able to study what you might be prone to see, in addition to a store and cafe promoting snacks and drinks. Count on to spend round an hour right here in the event you do the round dune stroll.
From Ynyslas head again to the A487 and proceed north. We’d counsel a fast cease on the Dyfi Furnace (right here on Google Maps), an previous charcoal fired blast furnace which dates from 1755.
It’s free to go to and there are a variety of data panels to clarify what you might be seeing. It’s solely a ten minute cease however properly value it. There’s additionally a pleasant waterfall right here.
The eager birdwatchers amongst additionally, you will need to make a cease at close by RSPB Ynys-hir. This reserve has a variety of habitats, from woodland to saltmarsh to grassland.
Which means there’s a vastly numerous vary of wildlife that calls the reserve residence. There’s a small payment to go to, with entry free for RSPB members.
One other wildlife middle it’s possible you’ll contemplate visiting is Cors Dyfi, just a bit additional alongside the highway. It is a nature reserve and wildlife middle which can also be residence to the Dyfi Osprey Undertaking. There’s a small payment to go to.
Persevering with up the A487 you’ll come to the city of Machynlleth. There are a selection of cafes and eating places right here in addition to a reasonably city clock and city middle. There’s additionally a free museum of contemporary artwork right here.
North of Machynlleth are two in style points of interest. The primary is the Centre for Different Know-how, the place you’ll be able to be taught all about various power choices, sustainability, and extra.
One other in style choice, particularly with households, is King Arthur’s Labyrinth. Present in a former slate mine, it is a guided story telling tour which takes you thru the story of King Arthur. It’s lots of enjoyable however you’ll want to costume warmly because the mine is a cold place! There’s additionally a very nice artwork and craft middle on web site right here, in addition to a restaurant with good native meals.
Persevering with on to Porthmadog you’ll move by way of the city of Dolgellau, the place we advocate driving the coastal route down the Mawddach estuary to the seaside city of Barmouth.
This has a stunning sandy seaside and is a superb spot to cease for an ice cream or fish and chips.
Proceed up the coast and also you’ll come to the city of Harlech. That is residence to the spectacular Harlech Citadel, a mighty thirteenth century fortress constructed by Edward I throughout his invasion of Wales.
This citadel, together with Beaumaris, Conwy and Caernarfon castles, is rated by UNESCO to be one of many most interesting examples of late thirteenth century navy structure in Europe. So we are able to extremely advocate a go to to this, or one (or all!) of the opposite three. There’s a payment to go to Harlech, and it’s free for CADW members.
From Harlech it’s a brief drive to your vacation spot for the night time, the city of Porthmadog.
Day 6 Highlights: Cadair Idris hike, Borth Station Museum, Dyfi Nationwide Nature Reserve, Dyfi Furnace, RSPB Ynys-hir, Centre for Different Know-how, King Arthur’s Labyrinth, Harlech Citadel
Day 6 Driving Distance: ~ 65 miles
Day 6 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 6 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Porthmadog. You will have many choices within the Porthmadog space, some on the town after which extra within the surrounding space. Some choices we advocate embody the next:
The Golden Fleece Inn – this 4 star inn is within the village of Tremadog, a few 5 minute drive from Porthmadog itself. It has a superb on-site restaurant and good worth rooms. We’ve stayed right here and may positively advocate each the restaurant and the lodging. Breakfast is out there.
Royal Sportsman Resort – discovered within the middle of Porthmadog only a few moments from the Ffestiniog Railway, this properly rated lodge gives en-suite rooms and a superb on-site restaurant. Breakfast is included.
Tudor Lodge – minutes stroll from the Ffestiniog Railway this properly rated family-run guesthouse provide en-sute accommdation with breakfast included.
Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth – if you wish to spoil your self, you then would possibly contemplate staying in Portmeirion Village itself. A variety of rooms can be found throughout the positioning, together with in a citadel, and there are additionally numerous eating places to select from. An effective way to expertise Portmeririon.
Sygun Fawr Nation Home – Discovered round 20 minutes from Porthmadog within the peaceable village of Beddgelert, this nation home lodge makes a terrific base for climbing Snowdon. There’s a bar and on-site restaurant, and the meal we had once we stayed right here was glorious.
Day 7 – Porthmadog to Caernarfon
My foremost suggestion right this moment is to take one of many scenic slender gauge rail journeys that depart from Porthmadog. These provide spectacular views of the Snowdonia Nationwide Park, and you may simply chill out and let the surroundings roll on by.
There are two railway routes to select from, each of which function from Porthmadog. There’s the Ffestiniog Railway, a 13.5 mile lengthy route which runs from Porthmadog to the city of Blaenau Ffestiniog. That is the oldest surviving railway firm on this planet.
Then there’s the Welsh Highland Railway. That is truly operated by the Ffestiniog Railway Firm, so the expertise may be very related. The principle distinction is the route.
This 25 mile stretch of monitor goes from Porthmadog all the best way to Caernarfon, and you can even do a visit to and from the beautiful village of Beddgelert on this practice.
There’s no “greatest” choice truthfully, each trains provide nice views and sightseeing alternatives. We loved taking the half-day journey on the Welsh Highland Railway to Beddgelert and again once more, nonetheless the journey to Blaenau Ffestiniog can also be properly value it.
Whichever journey you select, we advocate reserving upfront on the official web site right here, because the route may be very in style and may promote out.
One other in style attraction close to Porthmadog that you could be contemplate is Portmeirion Village. It is a purpose-built vacationer village, constructed between 1925 and 1975 to emulate a Mediterranean seaside city, and notably the city of Portofino in Italy.
It’s actually an uncommon attraction, as you wander previous colourful homes with ornate designs. If not for the Welsh mountains within the background and the upper likelihood of rain, you would possibly even suppose you’ve left Wales completely.
While it is a in style attraction, I’ll admit that Jess and I didn’t completely fall for it. It was a reasonably expensive place to go to, and aside from trying on the buildings, having fun with the views, and dropping into the retailers, there wasn’t an enormous quantity to do.
After all, everybody can have a distinct expertise, so it’s as much as you. Now there are about 20 miles of paths you’ll be able to stroll that are good, however a few of these have been closed once we visited and it rained a lot of our go to. So I believe the climate actually put a damper on our go to.
I believe the expertise at Portmerion Village is greatest on a pleasant sunny day and in the event you spend the night time. There are a number of varieties of lodging right here and close by in the event you resolve to remain the night time.
Relying on what you’ve chosen to do right this moment, it’s possible you’ll or could not have extra time to spare. If you’re in search of extra to do, then I’d counsel taking a highway journey across the Llŷn Peninsula.
This gives attractive shoreline views, cute seaside villages, and extra castles to discover. As an example, you’ll be able to go get ice cream at Cadwaladers in Criccieth, go to Criccieth Citadel, and do some coastal walks at Aberdaron. There’s additionally a stunning free artwork gallery with cafe in Llanbedrgo.
Lastly, head to Caernarfon the place you’ll in a single day. The principle attraction right here is the gorgeous Caernarfon Citadel which it is best to positively go to you probably have time and nonetheless have an urge for food for Welsh castles!
It is a fairly spectacular late eleventh century motte and bailey type citadel. Free to CADW members, in any other case there’s an entry payment.
Relying in your schedule you could have to do that on the next day.
Day 7 Highlights: Slender gauge railway experience, Llŷn Peninsula, Criccieth Citadel
Day 7 Driving Distance: ~ 60 miles
Day 7 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 7 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Caernarfon. After all, you possibly can additionally base your self in Porthmadog or one other location for nights 6 and seven in the event you’d desire to not preserve packing and unpacking. Nevertheless, in the event you select to remain in Caernarfon, we advise the next choices:
Totters Hostel – this centrally situated hostel gives rooms with shared or personal bogs and breakfast is included.
Ty Glyndwr Bunkhouse – this properly reviewed centrally situated lodge has a bar and cafe, and a mixture of shared or personal bogs. Breakfast is included.
Ty Castell – a centrally situated 4* lodge providing en-suite rooms. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar, and breakfast is out there.
The Black Boy Inn – a beautiful sixteenth century teaching inn discovered inside the town partitions, this is without doubt one of the oldest inns nonetheless working in North Wales. There’s a superb restaurant and bar on web site, and a spread of en-suite rooms to select from. Breakfast is out there.
Plas Dinas Nation Home – simply 10 minutes drive from Caernarfon, this attractive nation home lodge was as soon as the house of Lord Snowdon. At present it has an award-winning restaurant and gorgeously furnished en-suite rooms. Breakfast included.
Day 8 – Caernarfon to Conwy
In your eighth day you once more have numerous choices, because the northern a part of Wales has an enormous quantity to supply.
One highly regarded choice is in fact to sort out the very best mountain in Wales, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh). You will have a few choices for going to the summit.
First, and most clearly maybe, you’ll be able to stroll. There are a minimum of six routes to select from, and you may see all of them outlined right here. The Llanberis path tends to be the preferred because it’s thought to be the simplest, though that is nonetheless a strenuous hike.
My private favorite routes are the quieter Snowdon Ranger or Rhyd Ddu paths. I’ve completed these paths and solely handed a couple of different walkers, even when the summit is busy.
Whichever route you select, you’ll want to permit between 5 to eight hours for the hike, relying on the route selected and your health stage. So that you’ll need to principally plan your full day round your hike as you gained’t have an excessive amount of time to suit a lot else in and can seemingly be exhausted after your hike.
Word that the automobile parks within the space are all pay and show, and a few require advance bookings. Remember to test forward.
So do you’ll want to plan forward in case you are contemplating a hike up Snowdon as you’ll have to you’ll want to pack accordingly for a mountain hike, know which route you need to do, and plan head for parking. You additionally need to begin early to make sure you get a parking spot and are again earlier than sunset.
Lastly, you’ll want to test the native climate forecast from the Met Workplace earlier than your hike as climate situations could make these paths very harmful. You’ll need to keep away from this hike in dangerous climate.
The opposite technique to get to the highest of Snowdon is to take the practice. Sure, there’s a practice that can take you to the highest of the mountain.
The Snowdon Mountain railway has been whisking folks to the summit of Snowdon since 1896, and its an exquisite technique to attain the highest, with epic views all the best way up.
It is a paid service, and you may select to go a technique or return. If you wish to do that we strongly advocate reserving tickets upfront because it’s a highly regarded service. You are able to do that on the Snowdon Mountain railway web site.
For this one you’ll be able to park both on the Snowdon Mountain railway station on Victoria Terrace (postcode LL55 4TU). If that is full, there are a variety of automobile parks a brief stroll away in Llanberis.
In comparison with a Snowden hike which usually takes between 6 and eight hours, a spherical journey practice experience is round 2.5 hours, which incorporates half-hour on the high. In order that’s a superb choice if you wish to match extra in right this moment.
Talking of which, there’s loads extra to see and do within the space, whether or not or not you select to ascend Snowdon.
First, in Llanberis we are able to extremely advocate visiting the superb and free Nationwide Slate Museum. This tells the story of slate mining in Wales, which has formed the panorama and the approach to life of the folks right here for a whole lot of years.
Present in a former slate quarry, you’ll discover reveals masking all elements of slate mining in addition to stay demonstrations of varied slate mining processes.
We are able to additionally extremely advocate heading throughout the bridge over the Menai Straits to the island of Anglesey. There are two in style points of interest right here that we advocate. The primary is the village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, which is residence to the longest railway station signal on this planet.
The signal, which reads Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, means “The Church of St Mary in a hole of white hazel, close to to a fast whirlpool, and to St Tysilio’s Church close to to a crimson cave”.
The signal title was completely invented to draw vacationers within the 1860s, and has been a preferred customer attraction ever since. So clearly that was a profitable plan!
It’s free to go to, and there’s a superb and large memento retailer right here the place you should purchase all method of issues.
The opposite attraction we advocate visiting on Anglesey is the spectacular thirteenth century Beaumaris Citadel.
This splendidly symmetrical citadel is surrounded on most sides by a water stuffed moat. Apparently, the citadel was by no means truly accomplished, however there’s nonetheless loads to see and do. Free for CADW members, in any other case there’s a payment.
Lastly, if you want to do a stroll however would favor one thing just a little shorter and flatter than the Snowdon ascent, then we’d advocate the hike to Aber Falls. That is roughly a 4 mile spherical journey hike on pretty stage terrain that takes most individuals 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Your reward for the hassle is the gorgeous 120 foot excessive Aber Falls. There’s paid parking on the stroll begin level.
One other good waterfall which is simply off the highway and requires solely a really transient stroll are the Swallow Falls, as seen on the picture beneath. So it’s as much as you what you select to do.
You’re going to complete your day with an in a single day within the seaside city of Conwy. That is additionally residence to a shocking citadel, which can also be value visiting though we’d counsel most likely shortlisting a couple of castles from this itinerary, so that you don’t get castled out!
Conwy Citadel is free to CADW members and there’s a payment for visiting in any other case. It’s proper in the midst of Conwy and there’s no on-site parking, however you’ll be able to simply stroll right here from many of the city automobile parks.
That is one other of Edward I constructions, and it dates from the thirteenth century. In the event you go to, we extremely advocate climbing to the highest of the tower staircases for the very best views.
Lastly, in a single day in Conwy. Once more, you would possibly want to maneuver some sightseeing to Day 9 relying in your schedule.
Day 8 Highlights: Snowdon, Nationwide Slate Museum, Llanfairpwllgwyngyll signal, Beaumaris Citadel, Aber Falls, Conwy Citadel
Day 8 Driving Distance: ~ 30 miles
Day 8 Driving Time: ~ 1 hour
Day 8 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Conwy. Once more, this a part of the journey nonetheless has you exploring the northwestern space of Wales, so you possibly can select one location for nights 6 by way of 8. In the event you select to base your self in Conwy, we advocate the next:
YHA Conwy – simply 10 minutes stroll from the centre of Conwy, this properly rated hostel gives nice worth rooms, some with personal bogs. A big buffet breakfast is out there, and there’s additionally a kitchen for visitor use in addition to a laundry, bar and cafe.
Quantity 18 – a really extremely rated household run mattress and breakfast simply 5 minutes stroll from the citadel. Rooms are all en-suite and breakfast is included.
Bryn Derwen Visitor Home – a properly rated centrally situated household run guesthouse with en-suite rooms and breakfast included.
Gwynfryn – this uncommon lodge is present in a transformed chapel simply 300 metres from Conwy Citadel. All rooms are en-suite and breakfast is out there.
The Erskine Arms – 5 minutes stroll from Conwy centre, this Georgian teaching inn gives 10 en-suite rooms with breakfast included. There’s additionally a bar on-site serving good meals and drinks.
The Quay Resort and Spa – discovered within the marina on the alternative aspect of the river to the city centre, this lodge gives en-suite rooms, some with attractive sea views. There’s an on-site restaurant and breakfast is included.
Day 9 – Conwy to Hay-on-Wye
At present it’s time to begin heading again down south to finish our loop of Wales. Heading again to Cardiff through Hay-on-Wye.
Earlier than you set off, be sure you go to any points of interest you haven’t but seen in Conwy and surrounds. Nationwide Belief members will seemingly need to take a look at Penrhyn Citadel and Backyard for instance.
Now you’ve two totally different route choices right this moment, the primary is heading alongside the northern shoreline and the second is following an inland route south.
Each routes have you ever spend the night time in Hay-on-Wye. Each routes are nice and I’d take a look at the highlights alongside each to see which sounds higher to you.
In the event you resolve to comply with the northern shoreline, then your first cease will probably be Rhuddlan Citadel. That is one other of Edward I’s castles, which dates from 1277.
From Rhuddlan it’s a brief drive to Rhaeadr Dyserth Waterfall, the place a minute’s stroll from the automobile park will reward you with a reasonably view of a stunning little waterfall.
The following cease alongside the northern shoreline that we advocate is St Winefride’s Effectively & Shrine, a web site which has been welcoming pilgrims for over 1300 years. It’s additionally distinctive in that it’s the one pilgrimage web site within the UK that was in a position to proceed working even through the Reformation.
The properly itself is discovered on the location the place St. Winefride was mentioned to have been decapitated after which introduced again to life. There’s a pool right here which is open at particular instances of the day for folks to wash in.
It’s mentioned to have therapeutic properties. There’s a small museum on web site as properly the place you’ll be able to study St. Winefride. A small payment applies for visiting.
Lastly, the final attraction on the northern shoreline we advocate earlier than you flip south is the ruinous Flint Citadel. That is noteworthy as being the closest citadel to the English border, and due to this fact the primary to be constructed throughout Edward I’s marketing campaign towards the Welsh. Free to go to.
From Flint, you’ll head south passing by way of by way of Wrexham, Oswestry and Newtown till you attain Hay on Wye.
This northern shoreline route takes about 3 hours with out stops. It will positively be faster than the route beneath, even when elements of the journey have you ever leaving Wales.
A second choice is to move south instantly, skipping the northern shoreline and as an alternative visiting extra of jap Wales. Highlights alongside this route embody Merion Mill, Pont Minllyn, Bryntail Lead Mining buildings, and the Elan Valley. This route takes about 3.5 hours to drive with out stops.
For the inland route, head from Conwy all the way down to Dolgellau, then out to Minllyn on the A470.
At Minllyn, take a break at Merion Mill, a wool crafting mill the place you’ll be able to peruse all method of unique merchandise that will make for a superb memento or present. There’s free parking and a restaurant on web site as properly.
We’d additionally extremely advocate speaking a one-minute stroll to the doorway of the automobile park the place you’ll be able to see what stays of the attractive previous stone bridge which crosses the river right here, Pont Minllyn.
Now proceed south in direction of Llandiloes. A quick detour will take you to the Bryntail Lead Mining buildings. Right here you’ll be able to see the stays of this former lead mining group.
There are additionally strolling trails within the space if you wish to stretch your legs. Free parking, and it’s simply a few minutes’ stroll from the automobile park to the positioning. Extra data on the official CADW web site right here. It’s free to go to.
Persevering with on, one other good cease right this moment is the Elan Valley. This seventy sq. mile space covers a spread of hills, valleys and man-made reservoirs which kind 5 lakes. These lakes present consuming water for the town of Birmingham.
There’s a customer middle right here the place you’ll be able to be taught all concerning the space. The preferred activitiy right here is to cycle across the reseviors on the Elan Valley Path. Bikes can be found for rent on the customer middle.
Nevertheless, you can even stroll or drive to various viewpoints in the event you desire. Word the customer middle is free to go to however there’s a cost for parking.
Lastly, proceed on to the attractive city of Hay-on-Wye the place you’ll be spending the night time. That is proper on the border of England and Wales, and the city is known for its bookshops.
There are over twenty bookshops within the city masking just about each style and elegance of literature, and each new and used books can be found.
We extremely advocate taking a while to wander the city and go to a few of these bookshops earlier than discovering a pleasant spot for dinner and delivering for the night time.
Day 9 Highlights: Merion Mill, Bryntail Lead Mining buildings, Elan Valley, Hay-on-Wye
Day 9 Driving Distance: ~ 140 miles
Day 9 Driving Time: ~ 3 – 3.5 hours relying on route
Day 9 Lodging: In a single day at (or close to) Hay-on-Wye. There are a couple of choices to select from in and across the village. We advocate the next:
The Outdated Black Lion – voted greatest pub within the county, this stunning seventeenth century inn has a superb on-site restaurant and comfy en-suite rooms. We had a stunning meal right here and a superb night time’s relaxation. Breakfast is out there.
Seven Stars – this guesthouse is present in a sixteenth century constructing and now options eight pretty en-suite rooms. There’s additionally an indoor swimming pool and sauna. Breakfast is included.
The Swan At Hay – this former Georgian teaching inn is now a 19 room lodge with 2 bars and a eating room. Breakfast is out there.
Baskerville Home – discovered a couple of minutes drive exterior Hay on Wye, this guesthouse gives snug en-suite rooms with breakfast included.
Day 10 – Hay-on-Wye to Cardiff
We now have reached the ultimate day of your Welsh highway journey! At present you’re heading again to Cardiff the place you’ll be able to drop off your rental automobile (if wanted) after which journey onwards.
How your day right this moment appears to be like will in fact rely in your schedule. You probably have an early practice or flight, then you’ll want to head straight again to Cardiff, which is round a 90 minute drive away.
Nevertheless, you probably have time to spare then there are some good choices for stops alongside the best way.
First, head instantly south alongside tiny nation lanes from Hay on Wye to Llanthony Priory. This spectacular Grade I listed 900 yr previous destroy was as soon as one of many best medieval buildings in Wales, and it flourished till Henry VIII put an finish to the monasteries. At present the positioning is free to go to.
Persevering with on to Cardiff, you’ve a few choices. First, it’s possible you’ll decide to go to the previous coal mining village of Aberfan. This was the positioning of the tragic Aberfan catastrophe in 1966, when a spoil tip collapsed into the village, killing 116 youngsters and 28 adults. There’s a shifting memorial you’ll be able to go to in the event you want to pay your respects.
Lastly, if you want to see one other citadel, we are able to extremely advocate dropping by Caerphilly Citadel as you come to Cardiff. This thirteenth century medieval fortress was the most important in Wales, and actually is the second largest within the UK, second solely to Windsor Citadel.
Masking 30 acres, the positioning options big defensive partitions, towers, gatehouses and a spread of water defenses. It’s really a web site to behold, and a very good technique to end off your Welsh highway journey. There’s a payment to go to, and it’s free for CADW members.
Now, on to Cardiff the place this highway journey wraps up! You probably have extra time in Cardiff, you’ll be able to go and go to any of the points of interest you didn’t have time to go to initially of your journey.
Day 10 Highlights: Llanthony Priory, Aberfan memorial, Caerphilly Citadel
Day 10 Driving Distance: ~ 65 miles
Day 10 Driving Time: ~ 2 hours
Day 10 Lodging: You’ll be able to keep one other night time in Cardiff if you want, or in your onward vacation spot.
Map of Wales Street Journey Itinerary
Right here’s a map of the route that can assist you visualise the place you’ll be going. You’ll be able to see a full model of this map on Google Maps right here, which incorporates all of the highlights in addition to lodging listings.
Wales Street Journey Itinerary Overview
Right here’s an summary of the itinerary for reference.
Day 1: Cardiff
Day 2: Cardiff
Day 3: Cardiff to Tenby
Day 4: Tenby to St. David’s
Day 5: St. David’s to Aberystwyth
Day 6: Aberystwyth to Porthmadog
Day 7: Porthmadog to Caernarfon
Day 8: Caernarfon to Conwy
Day 9: Conwy to Hay-on-Wye
Day 10: Hay on Wye to Cardiff
Additional Studying
And that’s it for our detailed Wales highway journey itinerary! We hope you discovered this information helpful. We additionally needed to share some extra sources we expect would possibly make it easier to with planning this and future journeys within the UK.
In the event you’re in search of extra highway journey inspiration within the UK, take a look at our North Coast 500 planning information and North Coast 500 seven day itinerary
In the event you’re heading to Scotland, take a look at our 2 day Edinburgh itinerary, our Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary, our information to the greatest day journeys from Glasgow, our information to issues to do in Edinburgh, our itinerary for Skye and the Highlands, our information to the greatest day journeys from Aberdeen, and our information to the very best day journeys from Edinburgh to get you began.
We now have a two week UK highway journey itinerary and a one week UK highway journey itinerary
We even have a one week Cornwall itinerary
In the event you’re not aware of driving within the UK, see my information to driving within the UK for useful ideas.
We now have guides to many cities within the UK you’ll be able to take a look at! See our guides to issues to do in Manchester, issues to do in Stratford upon Avon, issues to do in Bristol, issues to do in Portsmouth, recommendations on a weekend in York, recommendations on Visiting Oxford on a Day Journey, and issues to do in Cambridge to get began
In the event you’re in search of a guidebook to your journey, take a look at the Tough Information to Wales
And that’s it! Have you ever ever visited Wales? Do you’ve something you’d add to the above? Simply tell us within the feedback beneath, and secure travels!
