Holidays in Wales
Natural wonders, history and Welsh hospitality
Wales is a land of contrasts and character: wild and poetic, steeped in tradition yet surprisingly vibrant. Set amongst green hills, majestic mountains, dramatic coastal landscapes and protected natural areas, it is a land that captivates visitors with its unspoilt beauty, diversity and deep connection to nature.
The focus is on the three national parks: in the north, Eryri (Snowdonia) impresses with its striking peaks, deep valleys and clear mountain lakes. The Brycheiniog Mountains (Brecon Beacons) captivate with vast plateaus, gurgling waterfalls and tranquil, enchanted landscapes, whilst at the south-western tip, Pembrokeshire fascinates with spectacular cliffs, hidden coves and some of Europe’s most beautiful stretches of coastline. These landscapes are perfect for experiencing them to the full on hikes, day trips or leisurely cycle rides.
Wales is also a land of castles and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Imposing fortresses such as Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech dominate the landscape and bear witness to Celtic roots, medieval power and a turbulent history.
Thanks to its compact size, nature experiences, sights and small villages are always close at hand. Whether on foot, by train or travelling independently – Wales can be explored in a variety of ways, at a leisurely pace and in your own rhythm. And it’s palpable everywhere: the openness, friendliness and warm hospitality of the Welsh people, with which holidaymakers are welcomed and which makes every stay feel like a real homecoming.
The land of castles
With over 600 castles and palaces, Wales is a true paradise for history enthusiasts. Many fortresses are nestled within spectacular landscapes, towering high above the sea like Harlech Castle, or stand as silent ruins beside clear mountain lakes, such as Dolbadarn Castle. Impressive palaces such as Powis Castle, with its terraced gardens in the Italian style, or Penrhyn Castle, whose imposing grandeur tells of the wealth of the Welsh slate industry, are particularly striking. Each fortress is a window into the past and brings history in Wales to life in a unique way.
Accommodation with character
Wales offers travellers a remarkable variety of accommodation and impresses with a successful blend of comfort, character and location: from stylish boutique hotels and cosy bed and breakfasts to family-run guesthouses, comfortable mid-range hotels, historic manor houses and elegant country estates. Many properties score highly not only for their facilities but also for their location: nestled in secluded natural landscapes, amidst rugged mountain scenery, in small villages or right on the coast with sea views. Typical of Wales is the personal atmosphere that awaits guests – characterised by warm, genuine hospitality.
Croeso i Gymru – Welcome to Wales.
Hiking between the coast & mountains
Wales is a true hiker’s paradise and offers the perfect experience for every level: stunning long-distance trails such as the Wales Coast Path, which winds its way for over 1,400 km around the entire coastline, or the Offa’s Dyke Path along the historic border between Wales and England, lead through breathtaking landscapes. In the mountains, panoramic summit walks beckon, whilst in Mid Wales, leisurely routes run along picturesque estuaries, through lush green valleys and small villages.
Experience history come to life
History is ever-present in Wales and surprisingly accessible. The country’s seven national museums offer free admission and bring art, archaeology, nature and everyday history to life in a modern and engaging way. From the National Museum Cardiff to St Fagans National Museum of History, one of Europe’s finest open-air museums, the past comes alive and feels within reach. Interactive exhibitions, historic buildings and open workshops make a visit exciting for everyone.
UNESCO World Heritage up close
Wales is home to no fewer than four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which bring the country’s history to life in a truly impressive way. In the north, the castles of Conwy, Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Harlech bear witness to power, defence and medieval architecture. The slate landscape of North-West Wales vividly illustrates how industry, landscape and community have been interwoven over generations. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a spectacular feat of engineering, soaring almost 40 metres above the valley and supporting the Llangollen Canal. In Blaenavon, meanwhile, the Big Pit Coal Museum and the world’s first ironworks bring the early days of industrialisation to life.
Explore Wales by train
The country is best explored by train – a leisurely journey through stunning scenery that is surprisingly varied: the Great Little Trains of Wales are among the most beautiful historic narrow-gauge and heritage railways in Europe. They chug through the impressive mountain scenery and along lakes and coastlines, making the journey itself an experience to remember. One spectacular railway line is the Heart of Wales Line, which meanders leisurely through rolling hills, small villages and rural areas, whilst the Cambrian Line guarantees breathtaking sea views on the stretch between Aberdovey and Pwllheli. Train journeys in Wales mean time to look around and take a deep breath – ideal for experiencing the countryside, history and local places without any rush.
Our insider tips
Cardigan Bay, off the west coast of Wales, is home to one of the largest dolphin populations in the UK. With a bit of luck, bottlenose dolphins can be spotted from the coast, but boat trips from the pretty little harbour town of New Quay are particularly rewarding. The dolphins often accompany the boats, whilst seals and numerous seabirds can also be seen in this species-rich marine area.
The Llŷn Peninsula juts out like a finger into the Irish Sea and is one of the country’s most unspoilt regions. Long sandy beaches, picturesque villages and abundant natural beauty characterise the landscape. On the north coast, near Nefyn, lies the small coastal village of Porthdinllaen, consisting of just a few houses and the Tŷ Coch pub, right on the beach. It is not without reason that Porthdinllaen was voted one of the best pubs for a pint by the sea.
Discover the distinctive flavour of Halen Môn – one of the finest sea salts in the world, produced on the picturesque coast of the island of Anglesey in Wales. Try the salt for yourself on a unique salt tasting tour.
The Elan Valley, in the heart of Mid Wales, is one of the best Dark Sky Areas in the UK and is designated as a light-protected area in Wales. Far from towns and light pollution, the night sky here offers breathtaking views of stars, planets and the Milky Way. The combination of vast reservoirs, green hills and open countryside makes the valley a special place for nature and stargazing, day and night.
Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch is one of the most curious places in Wales. The famously long place name was invented in the late 19th century by a resourceful Welshman to attract attention and draw in tourists. The plan worked: To this day, visitors from all over the world travel there to see the famous place-name sign. Translated, the name poetically describes the location of the village: “The Church of St Mary in a hollow of white hazel near a whirlpool and the Church of St Tysilio by the red cave”. A quick stop in Llanfair PG is humorous, typically Welsh and guaranteed to be unforgettable.
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