Situated in the south-west of the island of Great Britain, Wales, like a hidden treasure, offers a wealth of culture and a palette of grandiose landscapes. Nature lovers will be delighted by the three national parks: Snowdonia, with Mount Snowdon and Lake Llyn Tegid; Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park, with its spectacular beaches and cliffs; and the peaceful Brecon Beacons National Park, with its forests, streams and waterfalls. So, what's there to see and do in Wales? Let's discover the 19 most beautiful places with us!
1. Cardiff, the capital of Wales
The capital of Wales since 1955, Cardiff is a mecca for world rugby and the beating heart of Celtic culture. This charming historic city has many surprises in store: beautiful museums, green spaces, an attractive modern bay, an increasingly renowned gastronomy and a vibrant nightlife. The UK's smallest capital may not be as famous as its rivals, but it is home to some magnificent historic monuments and a legendary stadium. Victorian galleries, numerous boutiques, restaurants and traditional Welsh pubs create a world where tradition and modernity blend harmoniously.
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2. Caerleon: site of King Arthur's famous "Round Table
A former Roman garrison town, known as "Isca" and founded by Augustus' second legion in 75 AD, Caerleon today abounds in Roman remains. These include Roman baths, campsites and, above all, the amphitheatre, the best preserved in Britain. It is said that it was here that King Arthur held his councils, around the famous "Round Table" of Arthurian knights. To get there by car from Newport, follow the B4596 for about 5 km after crossing the bridge over the Usk. Cardiff is 40 minutes from Caerleon by bus. From Newport, buses 27 and 28 take you to Caerleon in 15 minutes.
3. The Isle of Anglesey, an island rich in legends and historic sites
Nicknamed "Môn Mam Cymru" or "Mother of Wales", the Isle of Anglesey is rich in history and heavenly scenery. Its 190 km of coastline and beaches make it a true marvel. Whether you prefer the white sandy stretches of Llanddwyn or Red Wharf Bay, the intimate little bays of Moelfre and Porth Swtan, or family beaches with cafés and games like Benllech or Cemaes, you'll find what you're looking for. The island is also rich in legends and historical sites. Dolmens, burial chambers, stone circles and other relicsof a bygone age are scattered everywhere. Among them, Llys Rhosyr, near Newborough, the court of a powerful Welsh prince.
4. Elan Valley reservoirs
Elan Valley is the story of countryside and villages renowned for their beauty and wildness, swallowed up between 1892 and 1903 to create four reservoirs intended to supply Birmingham, and therefore the English, with drinking water. Nevertheless, the reservoirs are exceptionally beautiful and well worth a visit. They form a necklace of water surrounded by pine and moss forests, creating an idyllic setting. At the bottom of the waters lie farms, pubs and churches, hidden relics of another era.
The article to read: Top 10 of Europe's most beautiful lighthouses. This includes the pretty lighthouse on Talacre beach at the tip of Ayr, the most northerly point in Wales. It's a place full of mystery that awaits visitors, who enjoy strolling along the surrounding sand and dunes while observing it.
5. Portmeirion, a masterpiece by Welsh artist Sir Clough Williams Ellis
Portmeirion, with its theatrical setting, is a masterpiece by Welsh artist Sir Clough Williams Ellis. The result is an unreal village, nestled in a region rich in myths and legends, born of a visionary architect's mad dream and a builder's challenge: to learn to adapt to nature while adapting it to him. In addition to the architecture, Sir Clough set himself the task of recreating Mediterranean flora. In winter, under the snow, the Italian village is perhaps even more marvellous, while in summer, the bushes are adorned with flowers in a gradation of white and pink, from bright to pastel. Portmeirion is also famous for being the setting for one of the most enigmatic TV series in British history , The Prisoner.
6. Climbing Cader Idris mountain in Dolgellau
Dolgellau (pronounced "Dolgethlay") is a small town of grey stone houses, situated along the River Wnion in the south of the Snowdonia National Park. It was here that Owain Glyndwr formed a Welsh Parliament in 1404, where he signed the Act of Allegiance to the King of France, Charles VI, to fight against the English. From the 18th to the mid-19th century, the village's main resource was wool manufacture and trade. The surrounding mountains were also home to gold mines, the metal from which was used to make wedding rings for the royal family. Dolgellau is very popular with climbers, who tackle the Cader Idris mountain (893 meters above sea level).
7. Trefriw, ideal for exploring the lakes of the surrounding valley
Very picturesque, Trefriw is an ideal base for exploring the lakes of the surrounding valley. Lake Crafnant is the most beautiful of all and offers trout fishing. Lake Geirionydd, the birthplace of many Arthurian legends, is now used as a leisure base. The road to Lake Cowlyd offers extraordinary views. In terms of sightseeing, don't miss the Trefriw Woollen Mills, where you can watch craft demonstrations, learn about weaving and see the hydroelectric turbines that generate their electricity. The store is located in the heart of the village.
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8. Chepstow and its postcard castle
Nestled in the heart of wooded hills, Chepstow invites you to stroll along its steep streets to the castle, perched high above the River Wye. Crossing the bridge over the river takes you from the Welsh district to the English county of Gloucestershire! The overall view of the bridge and clifftop castle is so picturesque that it has inspired many painters. Turner produced a watercolour of it in 1793, later reproduced as an engraving and published in travel guides. The panorama is still featured on many postcards today!
9. Beddgelert, a charming village lost in the mountains
This charming village, nestled in the mountains and crossed by the River Glaslyn, lies at the foot of Mount Snowdon. Its name means "the grave of Gelert", the faithful dog of Prince Llywelyn the Great. The area is also rich in legends about Merlin and King Arthur. An ideal starting point for hikes to Mount Snowdon, three of the six trails leading to the summit begin right next to Beddgelert. You can't help but appreciate the picturesque charm of this village.
10. Climbing Mount Snowdon: a must-do during your stay in Wales
Built in 1896, the Snowdon train climbs 957 meters over 7 km to the summit of Mount Snowdon. It is without doubt the most impressive train in the country. The smell of coal, the power of the locomotive and the characteristic sound of steam trains make it a unique experience. Some sports enthusiasts prefer to climb it on foot. The summit is said to offer the best view in the country, weather permitting! It's also the wettest place in the country. If you've got the legs, try the climb on foot. The path from Llanberis is the easiest, as long as you can climb it...
Did you know? Climbing Mount Snowdon is one of the Top 10 most dangerous hikes you'll ever do!
11. Llandudno, a very Victorian seaside resort
Nicknamed the "Queen of the Welsh Resorts", Llandudno is a very Victorian, very English seaside resort: long avenues, a seafront lined with hotels all offering breathtaking views. Could it be the "Cannes" of Britain? With its pontoon bridge, wooden promenade with pavilions and blue-and-white boutiques, Llandudno exudes a very 19th-century upmarket atmosphere. The main attraction of this seaside resort is the ascent of the Great Orme (Pen y Gogarth in Welsh), a 206-metre-high cliff overlooking the town. It can be climbed on foot, by streetcar or, even more easily, by cable car.
Good to know: Lewis Carroll is said to have spent many summers in Llandudno, during which time he wrote his famous "Alice in Wonderland". The local popular imagination deduced that Wonderland was Llandudno!
12. Caernarfon and its impressive castle
A fortified town whose origins date back to Roman times, Caernarfon lies on the right bank of the River Seiont, facing the sea. The town center has an undeniable charm, with its 14th-century ramparts. It's a pleasure to stroll through the narrow intramural streets, at the foot of the impressive Caernarfon Castle, one of the largest medieval castles in the world. It was in this bastion of Welsh nationalism that King Charles III was invested as Prince of Wales in 1969, an investiture symbolizing British imperialism.
13. Llanrwst and its magnificent chapels
A pleasant diversion from the main road is the small town of Llanrwst, once famous for its wool, and home to magnificent chapels such as Gwydir Chapel. Typically Welsh, with its grey buildings and white facades, this lively market town is surrounded by a river and rolling hills. At weekends, the locals end the week singing, often in chorus. 12 km east of Llanrwst, in the village of Llangernyw, stands a majestic yew tree, estimated to be 4,000 years old. This impressive tree, witness to a thousand years of history, took root in the Bronze Age and continues to defy time.
14. Blaenau Ffestiniog, the kingdom of slate
Gray mountains as far as the eye can see, hollowed-out hills, underground galleries and piles of slate everywhere... Blaenau Ffestiniog is located in the heart of Snowdonia, the region of the "Black Mouths". A visit to one of these mines is essential to understanding the Welsh people, their past and their culture. Living conditions were harsh, but the trade, often handed down from father to son, was a source of great pride. Today, many mines are closed. Only Llechwedd Slate Caverns remains in operation. Many visitors arrive in Blaenau Ffestiniog by steam train from Porthmadog, visit the slate mine and leave again. Yet the town is well worth discovering. The social fabric is strong, the welcome is warm and history is present at every corner, even on the sidewalks.
15. Marloes beach: a real gem
As you approach the Marloes peninsula, whose beach is a real gem, and Martin's Haven, the landscape changes: the coasts become wilder and hamlets appear. Hikes offer extraordinary views from the cliffs. It's certainly one of the most extraordinary walks in the region. From Martin's Haven, you can take the ferry to Skomer Island, a bird-lover's paradise. In early summer, cormorants and puffins feed their young, their beaks full of fish. If you're lucky, you may also spot water turtles, seals and sometimes even dolphins.
16. Llanberis, the mountain village par excellence
Llanberi is the mountain village par excellence. Perched on the side of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, it offers a multitude of breathtaking landscapes, without ever leaving room for boredom. One of the most impressive spots is undoubtedly Padarn Country Park, accessible by taking the Snowdon Mountain Railway. This almost unreal landscape is a must-see. Don't miss it! To get there by train, take the train from the station to the top of Mount Snowdon. By bus, take the No. 77 from Bangor, the No. 88 from Caernarfon, or the Sherpa No. S1 in summer. Bus stops are on the main road, High Street.
17. Rhossili and the Helvetia wreck
Rhossili is a splendid bay stretching between Burry Holms and Worm's Head, whose name derives from the Old English "orm" (dragon). It's easy to imagine the body and head of a dragon emerging from the water. The site attracts crowds because of its curious, sculptural shape. From the hamlet, it's easy to reach a path leading to the summit of the peninsula's highest plateau, at a height of 193 metres. From here, you can enjoya fantastic view over Rhossili Bay. A 7 km-long beach stretches as far as the eye can see, where, at low tide, you can spot the wreck of the Helvetia. All in all, a beautiful and very accessible walking circuit.
18. Conwy and its famous fortified castle
One of the strongholds of the English king Edward I, Conwy was founded as a walled "royal" village to house the English merchants encouraged by the king to settle in Wales. These merchants were obliged to serve the king and formed an auxiliary army in the event of a Welsh attack. Today, this town of around 15,000 inhabitants attracts a growing number of tourists who come to visit the famous fortified castle. Conwy also offers green spaces for walking along the river.
Good to know: Don't confuse Conwy with Colwyn Bay, a seaside resort 8 km to the north-east.
19. Llangollen and its Celtic festival
Located in the Dee Valley, Llangollen was once a spa resort, frequented by rheumatism and gout sufferers. As everything ends in song in Wales, one of the most popular Celtic festivals, the International Eisteddfod, is held here, attracting crowds of music lovers. The town has just two main streets, lined with pubs, tearooms, restaurants and numerous stores. The 14th-century Town Bridge lends a proud air to this bustling little town, which you just can't bring yourself to leave.
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What to visit in Wales in 3 days?
Wales offers a multitude of attractions for a three-day stay. Here's a suggested itinerary to discover the main sites and activities:
Day 1: Cardiff and surrounding area
Morning:
- Cardiff Castle: Start your day with a visit to Cardiff Castle, an iconic historical site.
- National Museum Cardiff: Discover Welsh history and culture through the museum's collections.
Afternoon:
- Cardiff Bay: Stroll along Cardiff's modern bay, where you can enjoy restaurants, stores and stunning views.
- Wales Millennium Centre: Take in a performance or visit this iconic cultural center.
Evening:
- Cardiff nightlife: Enjoy Cardiff's lively nightlife, with its many bars and restaurants.
Day 2: Snowdonia National Park
Morning:
- Mount Snowdon: Set off early for a hike to the summit of Mount Snowdon, or take the steam train for a more relaxing climb.
- Llanberis: Explore this picturesque village, the starting point for many hikes in Snowdonia National Park.
Afternoon:
- Padarn Country Park: Visit this park for stunning scenery and walking trails.
- Caernarfon Castle: Take a detour to Caernarfon Castle, one of the country's largest medieval castles.
Evening
- Dinner in Caernarfon: Enjoy dinner in one of the local restaurants for a taste of Welsh cuisine.
Day 3: Llŷn Peninsula and Anglesey
Morning:
- Llŷn Peninsula: Explore this picturesque peninsula, known for its stunning coastal scenery and fishing villages.
- Abersoch: Visit this popular seaside resort for its beaches and water activities.
Afternoon:
- Anglesey: Cross the bridge to visit the island of Anglesey, known for its coastal scenery, lighthouses and historic sites.
- Beaumaris Castle: Visit this well-preserved medieval castle.
Evening:
- Dinner in Beaumaris: End your day with dinner in one of Beaumaris' restaurants, offering magnificent sea views.
This itinerary allows you to discover a variety of Welsh landscapes, historic sites and cultures in just three days. Enjoy your trip!
What are the most beautiful villages to see in Wales?
Wales is brimming with picturesque villages that are among the most beautiful in England and well worth a visit. Here is a selection of the most beautiful villages to discover:
- Portmeirion
Located on the north-west coast of Wales, Portmeirion is a unique village designed by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. With its Italianate architecture and lush gardens, it offers a Mediterranean atmosphere right in the heart of Wales.
- Beddgelert
Nestled in the Snowdonia National Park, Beddgelert is a charming village surrounded by mountains and rivers. It is famous for the legend of Gelert, the faithful dog of Prince Llywelyn the Great, and offers many hiking opportunities.
- Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant
This village is famous for its magnificent Llanrhaeadr Church, home to one of the oldest Welsh-language Bibles. The village is also surrounded by picturesque scenery and offers many beautiful walks.
- Tenby
Tenby is a charming seaside resort on the south coast of Wales. With its golden sandy beaches, medieval ramparts and colorful houses, it's an ideal place for a seaside getaway.
How to visit Wales without a car?
Visiting Wales without a car is entirely possible, thanks to a well-developed public transport network. Here are some tips for exploring Wales using public transport:
- Trains
Wales has an efficient rail network linking major towns and attractions. Train companies like Transport for Wales offer regular services between major cities like Cardiff, Swansea, Bangor and Holyhead.
- Cardiff: The capital is well served by trains, with direct connections to many destinations.
- Snowdonia: You can take the train to Bangor or Llandudno Junction, then use local buses to explore Snowdonia National Park.
- Bus
Buses are a great way to get around rural areas and small towns. Bus companies such as Arriva, Stagecoach and First Cymru offer regular services.
- Sherpa Buses: These buses operate in Snowdonia National Park and are particularly useful for walkers.
- Coastal Buses: Coastal buses, such as the Puffin Shuttle, serve seaside resorts and tourist attractions along the coast.
- Ferries
To explore the islands and peninsulas, ferries are a must.
- Anglesey: You can take the train to Bangor, then a bus across the Menai Bridge to Anglesey.
- Pembrokeshire: Ferries link the islands of Skomer and Ramsey, offering unique opportunities to observe the flora and fauna.
- Bikes
Wales has a number of cycle paths that allow you to discover the region at a slower pace.
- Taff Trail: A cycle path linking Cardiff to Brecon Beacons, offering magnificent views of the Welsh countryside.
- Lon Las Cymru: A cycle route that crosses Wales from north to south, passing through a variety of landscapes.
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