Wales

Mostly famed for its rural land (and plenty of sheep!), in reality there is something new and different to discover in every corner of Wales. From three amazing national parks – Snowdonia, the Pembrokeshire Coast and the Brecon Beacons – to the 870-mile Wales Coast Path and many cheerful seaside resorts, you’re sure to find something to suit everybody – along with some truly unique and unusual places to stay of course!

Wales is well-known for its scenery and fresh adventure, and you’ll find plenty of both in North Wales.Betws-y-Coed is the gateway to the UK’s adventure activity centre, Snowdonia National Park, packed with mountains, hills, river valleys and its own railway. Here you can take a zipline journey through the Conwy Valley, or see the sights from Europe’s highest giant swing!

North Wales beaches include the chic Victorian resort of Llandudno, fast becoming a thriving arts and crafts hub, while Rhyl, Prestatyn and Colwyn Bay are ideal for watersports. Anglesey boasts a coast that has been designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the Llyn Peninsula is home to Portmeirion, where Wales meets Italy! Why not visit Criccieth Castle, built by Prince Llywelyn the Great, and capture a piece of history?

Mid Wales is ideal for a rural holiday to remember. The Ceredigion coastline and the rolling landscapes of Powys provide wonderful walking and cycling opportunities, with the Cambrian Mountains, known as the ‘backbone of Wales’, framing a region that inspired Dylan Thomas to write his moving poetry. Year-round cultural events are legendary in the heart of Wales, including the Hay Festival and Brecon Jazz.

South Wales is home to capital city Cardiff, for a city break that won’t disappoint either shoppers or sightseers. The Principality Stadium and the Millennium Centre are both found here, not to mention the legendary Cardiff Castle and many heritage-packed museums. Meanwhile, the Wye Valley offers spectacular scenery, dramatic landscapes await on the Glamorgan heritage coastline, and the green South Wales Valleys are the captivating soul of this wonderful country.

(You’ll also find some cheery beach resorts in South Wales, including ‘Gavin and Stacey’s’ own Barry Island!)

Finally, West Wales boasts Swansea, Wales’ second city, along with some of the best UK beaches along the award-winning Pembrokeshire coast. Carmarthenshire houses the National Botanic Gardens of Wales, and is the legendary birthplace of Merlin the wizard. Sporty types will be in heaven here, with West Wales a haven for walking, cycling, golf and watersports.

As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll find Wales home to some of the friendliest people on Earth, all waiting to offer you a warm ‘croeso’ (welcome). So what are you waiting for?