Known for its dramatic beauty, mountainous national parks and breath-taking coastline. Discover 10 of the most beautiful places to visit in Wales here.
Home to a unique history, its very own language, hearty food and beautiful landscapes, Wales is a stunning country that should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. With more castles per sqaure mile than any other country in Europe, award winning beaches, quaint fishing villages, three national parks and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it is the perfect place for those who enjoy both culture and adventure.
Read on to discover ten of the most beautiful places to visit in Wales:
1. Tenby
One of Wale’s most scenic seaside towns, Tenby is a historic fishing village surrounded by medieval stone walls. Explore the maze of pretty little streets and uncover the ancient history with a visit to the remains of Tenby Castle, perched on top of Castle Hill. Spend a day relaxing on one of the town’s great beaches. Choose from South Beach, Castle Beach, Harbour Beach or North Beach, where you will find beautiful views, soft sands and clear waters. Or take the ferry over to nearby Caldey Island and discover this holy island’s fascinating history.
2. Snowdonia National Park
The largest national park in the country, Snowdonia is home to towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, beautiful lakes and jaw dropping views. Mount Snowdon, considered one of its top attractions, draws hikers from all around. There are six paths to the summit, each with varying levels of difficulty. And if you don’t fancy the hike, then jump aboard the Mount Snowdon train to the top.
Besides walking and hiking trails, Snowdonia National Park has many family-friendly attractions dotted throughout and an abundance of pretty towns and villages to explore. Thrill seekers visiting the park can also delight in gorge walking, white water rafting and even ride the world’s fastest zip line.
3. Portmeirion
Situated on the north coast, Portmeirion is a picturesque Italian inspired village. Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, the village has pretty colourful houses, beautiful plazas and stunning gardens. Popular with day trippers, entry to the village is £11, which includes a 20-minute guided tour of the cobbled town. After exploring the interesting Italian inspired architecture, head for one of the white sandy beaches of the Dwyryd Estuary, stop for lunch at one of the cafes, visit the gift shops, or even stay the night at one of the village hotels.
4. Brecon Beacons National Park
Mountains and valleys, cascading waterfalls, dense forests and clear lakes, the Brecon Beacons is an adventure seekers playground. Home to the highest peak in south Wales – Pen y Fan – hike to the top and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the national park and beyond. Rock climbing, abseiling, mountain biking and horse riding are also popular activities in this beautiful part of Wales.
5. Isle of Anglesey
Located off the northwest coast of Wales, the Isle of Anglesey is the most popular island to visit amongst the Welsh themselves. Covering an area of 276 square miles, it is the largest island in Wales. Beautiful coastal views, quaint seaside villages, historic castles, water sports and miles of scenic walks and cycle paths await you. The Anglesey Coastal Path, a 125-mile-long distance walking route also makes for a perfect walking holiday.
6. Gower Peninsula
Located just a short drive from the city of Swansea, you will find the beautiful Gower Peninsula, the first place to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK. From golden sandy beaches to flourishing woodlands and open moors, it has a rich and varied landscape. Visit Rhossili Bay, one of the best beaches in the UK, and enjoy five kilometres of golden sand. Rock climbing enthusiasts can partake in a spot of coasteering around Three Cliffs Bay, whereas culture buffs can delve into the history of the peninsula by visiting one of the many castles.
7. Conwy
Conwy is a market town surrounded by imposing medieval walls and is home to one of the most impressive castles in Wales, Conwy Castle. Built between 1283 and 1289 by Edward I during his conquest of Wales, the castle is classed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Not to be missed, UNESCO describes the castle as ‘one of the finest examples of late 13th and 14th century military architecture in Europe’. Exceptionally well preserved, visitors can climb the towers, see the King’s Great Chamber and walk the town walls that completely enclose the town.
8. New Quay
Situated on the coast of Cardigan Bay, New Quay is a charming seaside town featuring golden sandy beaches and a pretty harbour. With many walking trails, water sports activities and great attractions all located within driving distance, New Quay is particularly popular amongst families. Home to one of the largest communities of dolphins in the UK, it is also a fantastic place to spot marine life and many wildlife watching boat trips depart from the town.
9. Cardiff
No trip to Wales would be complete without visiting its capital, Cardiff. A compact but bustling city with plenty of things to do and places to explore. Head to Cardiff Bay, one of Europe’s largest regeneration projects, and enjoy this vibrant entertainment hub. Visit the iconic Cardiff Castle and discover more than 2,000 years of history. Or venture out the city and explore Caerphilly Castle or Castell Coch.
10. Llandudno
The largest seaside resort in Wales, Llandudno is characterised by a long promenade and Victorian pier. Go during the summer and enjoy the Blue Flag beaches or partake in some water sports at North Shore Beach. Climb to the top of the ‘Great Omre’, a limestone headland which rises more than 200 metres out of the sea. Besides walking or driving to the top, you can also hop in a cable car or take the charming historic tramway. Soak up the impressive vistas from the summit, before visiting the interesting Visitor Centre.