Wales map & highlights
Like a harmony choir in full swing, Wales is a country of soaring highs and plunging lows. There is the brawny expanse of the Cambrian Mountains that connect with the ranges of Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons. Then there are the deep valleys carved between peaks, lined with old communities such as Merthyr Tydfil and Blaenau Gwent, where so much of the national culture is rooted. The Welsh coast, particularly that of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Cardigan Bay further north, boasts some of the most sublime beaches in the British Isles, with miles of walking routes and activities such as coasteering, sea kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. For a taste of real wilderness, daytrips are possible to nearby islands such as Skomer, Bardsley and Caldey.
1.
Beautiful beaches
2. Cambrian Mountains
3. Cardigan Bay
4. Long distance walking trails
5. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
6. Snowdonia National Park
2. Cambrian Mountains
3. Cardigan Bay
4. Long distance walking trails
5. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
6. Snowdonia National Park
Beautiful beaches
1. Beautiful beaches
If it’s beaches you want then you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to Pembrokeshire. One of the most attractive is Abermawr Beach, remote and pebbly until the tide recedes to unveil golden sands, and with a gorgeous bluebell wood nearby. On the other side of the peninsula from Abermawr there is the vast Newgale Beach, far windier and so an ideal spot for surfing and kiteboarding.
Cambrian Mountains
2. Cambrian Mountains
Remote, rugged and blissfully peaceful, the Cambrian Mountains in central Wales are one of the UK’s last true wildernesses. From Pumlumon, on a clear day, you can see as far as Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons. Birds of prey soar above moorland ridges, and the few settlements of any size, such as the village of Llanddewi Brefi, retain a distinctive character.
Cardigan Bay
3. Cardigan Bay
You’ve heard of spotting the ‘Big Five’ on an African safari; in Cardigan Bay you can find the ‘Big Three’ of Wales – bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals. Lined with pretty beaches and seaside resorts, the area offers a variety of landscapes ideal for outdoor pursuits, as well as plenty of cultural attractions including art galleries, museums and the steam-hauled Vale of Rheidol Railway.
Long distance walking trails
4. Long distance walking trails
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path gently undulates its way around nearly 60 beaches as it stretches for 300km from St. Dogmaels to Amroth. Running inland, there’s another long-distance route from Prestatyn to Chepstow past historic towns and some of Wales’ most glorious rural scenery. If you don't have time to complete a whole trail, a walk along a section of either makes for a fine day out.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
5. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
The only coastal national park in Britain, this ribbon of Blue Flag beaches, cliffs and coves is an immensely popular destination for thrill seekers, from water sports enthusiasts to mountain bikers. There are relaxed seaside towns where you can enjoy traditional Welsh grub, the hilly countryside is scattered with charming pubs, and walkers will love the scope of trails from short treks to long-distance.
Snowdonia National Park
6. Snowdonia National Park
Snowdonia is another superb area for outdoor activities. There are many great hiking and mountain biking trails, of course, but also opportunities for abseiling and rock climbing, horse riding and fishing. Highlights include the vintage railway that takes you up Snowdon, and the quirky Italianate village of Portmeirion, which was once the setting for iconic TV show, The Prisoner.
Mindful walking holiday in Wales
Guided winter walking weekend with a mindfulness coach
From
£395
3 days
ex flights
Wales tour by train
Spend a fabulous fortnight on the rails in Wales
From
£3250 to £3350
15 days
ex flights
Wye Valley walking holiday, UK
Secluded charm, ancient woodland and the river Wye
From
£979
7 days
ex flights
Vegetarian bed & breakfast in West Wales
Vegetarian farmhouse, idyllic, peaceful location, West Wales
From
£40 to £45
per person per night
Snowdonia walking holiday, small group
Exploring the pathways over hills and through valleys
From
£1039
7 days
ex flights
Snowdonia self catering accommodation, Wales
Cottage overlooks Lake Padarn with magic views of Snowdonia
From
£450 to £600
per cottage per week (sleeps 4-5)
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More Wales articles
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Put together an escape plan to get out into all of those lovely wild Welsh spaces.
Discover the most relaxed and romantic way to explore the country’s history, culture and rugged coast.
Saddle up for Blue Flag beaches, mountainous national parks and adrenaline-raising activities in the hills.
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