Wales, a passionate country, known for its rugged landscapes, stunning coastline and medieval castles, is a fantastic place to go on holiday. Boasting three national parks and over 1,600 miles of coastline it is no wonder it is often dubbed as the adventure capital of the UK. From surfing on the Gower Peninsular to hiking in Snowdonia there is an activity for everyone to enjoy.
Explore the fascinating Welsh myths and legends, visit one of the 600 castles, or learn more about the Celtic history so important to the Welsh culture and identity. Whatever you choose to do whilst on holiday in Wales the laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to visit whether you are looking for a relaxing escape or are looking to explore the great outdoors.
Beach Days
Rhossili Bay
The huge stretch of golden sand at Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula near Swansea is hard to beat if you want a day by the sea. Even in the height of summer, with three miles of sand to choose from, it is always easy to find our own space to plonk your picnic, unpack your buckets and spades and enjoy a game of bat and ball. At low tide you can walk to the iconic dragon shaped island at Worm’s Head or enjoy panoramic views of the bay as you stroll along the cliff-top path. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing. Surf More South Wales offers surf lessons and equipment hire and if you want to combine wellness with the water you can book onto one of their yoga and surf sessions. If you are on holiday with your four legged friends they are welcome at Rhossili Bay all year round making this a fantastic spot for the whole family at any time of the year.
Saundersfoot Beach
Located on the Pembrokeshire coastline, the stretch of sand at Saundersfoot is a firm favourite for families wanting a relaxing holiday by the sea. The shallow water is perfect for swimming and paddling and you can also hire paddleboards and kayaks. Enjoy a sea safari or evening sunset cruise with Saundersfoot Sealife Adventures or have a go at fishing. The beach is located directly in front of the village so it is easy to grab an ice cream or enjoy a leisurely lunch as you watch the fishing boats come in at one of the harbourside restaurants. If you are feeling energetic follow the coastal path east to through the old railway tunnel to Wiseman’s Bridge or west to the seaside town of Tenby.
Newborough Beach and Llanddwyn Island
The large sandy beach backed by sand dunes and a pine forest at Newborough Beach on Anglesey is an idyllic spot to while away a day. As you sink your toes into the warm sand admire the stunning panoramic views across the sea to the mountains in Snowdonia. Enjoy a swim or paddleboard in the sea or get your buckets and spades at the ready to build a castle fit for Kings. If you fancy stretching your legs walk along the beach to Llanddwyn Island where you will find the Twr Mawr Lighthouse and ruins of a 16th-century church dedicated to St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers. On your way back head inland into Newborough Forest where you will find extensive walking and cycling trails – keep your eyes peeled for red squirrels along the way.
Whistling Sands
Sitting on the northern coast of the Llyn Peninsula, Treath Porthor, also known as Whistling Sands, is famous for the unique whistling sound the sand makes when you walk on it. Aside from the chorus from sand, Porthnor is a popular spot for rock pooling and surfing. Head in either direction on the Wales Coastal Path to enjoy stunning sea views whilst keeping a look out for seals as well as birds such as Chough, Razorbills, and Guillemots on the cliffs. About a mile north you will find the small picturesque cove of Porth Iago, a popular spot for wild swimming and kayaking. Just round the headland from here the secluded and quieter cove of Porth Ferin is a great spot for snorkelling and wild swimming.
Discovery Days
Snowdonia
From mountains to beaches and high-octane activities to family friendly days out, Snowdonia (or Eryri in Welsh) National Park offers a fantastic range of things to do whilst on holiday. Climb, or take the train, to the top of Snowdon, explore the dramatic Ogwen Valley or spend a day at the coastal Italianate village of Portmeirion. Llanberis is a great place to base yourself for a range of outdoor activities. As well as hiking you can enjoy watersports such as wild swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing in Lake Padarn. Equipment can be rented from Snowdonia Watersports.
The village of Betws y Coed in the Conwy valley, which is often described as the ‘Gateway to Snowdonia’, is also surrounded by fantastic walking and cycling routes. Or enjoy a day out at Zip World where you can toboggan through the forest, bounce in the tree top nets or brave the high ropes course. The pretty village of Beddgelert in the heart of the National Park is famous for the legend of Gelert’s Grave and it also offers easy access to hiking and the Welsh Highland Railway.
Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons, now officially known as the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, or informally as the Bannau, is renowned for vast moorlands, spectacular waterfalls and Old Red Sandstone peaks. The tallest peak, Pen y Fan, stands at 886 metres and on a clear day you can see as far as the Bristol Channel, the Gower Peninsula, and the Severn Estuary. The Black Mountains and Fforest Fawr offer quieter trails, including the scenic ridge overlooking Llyn y Fan Fach and the five mile Four Falls Trail. The highlight of the walk is the recessed path that allows you to walk behind the waterfall at Sgwd yr Eira (Waterfall of Snow). Be prepared to get wet!
The Beacon Beacons is also a fantastic spot for caving. Dan-yr-Ogof has an extensive network of caves stretching over 10 miles and there is also a dinosaur park and shire horse centre making it a great family day out. As a Dark Sky Reserve you will also find exceptional views of the Milky Way and constellations in the National Park. The Visitor Centre, Llangorse Lake and the Usk Reservoir are all good spots for star gazing.
Anglesey
Located off the north west coast of Wales, the island of Anglesey is a fantastic destination for a holiday. Visit a different beach every day of the week, try a new watersport or explore World Heritage medieval castles and National Trust properties. With 130 miles of coastal paths to explore keen hikers will have plenty of walks to choose from. The 19 kilometre stretch from Trearddur Bay to Holyhead includes a climb up Holyhead Mountain and the impressive South Stack Lighthouse or explore the historical ruins and enjoy the views from the dramatic cliffs on the circular route from Cemaes Bay.
Go kite surfing at Rhosneigr, enjoy a bucket and spade day at the beach with the family at Benllech, Treadur Bay or Newborough or go swimming and rock pooling at Church Bay. The seaside town of Beaumaris is a lovely spot to browse the Independent shops, visit Beaumaris Castle and Gaol or take a boat trip around Puffin Island.
Pembrokeshire
From the wild Preseli Hills to rugged headlands and stunning beaches, it is easy to see why so many people fall in love with Pembrokeshire. Spanning 186 miles the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path winds its way round volcanic headlands, dramatic sea cliffs, large sandy beaches and secret sea caves from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south. If you are looking for a family holiday by the sea the pretty pastel-coloured seaside town of Tenby is hard to beat. With the choice of four beaches, kayak and paddleboard rentals, boat trips to Caldey Island and attractions such as Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo and The Dinosaur Park there is plenty to do whatever the weather.
Other fantastic beaches include Freshwater West for surfers, Barafundle Bay (only accessible via a half mile cliff top walk), and the vast stretch of sand at Broad Haven South Beach for the rockpools, surf and sea angling. No trip to Pembrokeshire would be complete without visiting St Davids, the smallest city in the UK, or taking a trip out to Skomer Island, home to Atlantic Puffins, Manx Shearwaters, Razorbills, Guillemots and Kittiwakes.
Adventure Days
Water sports
With over 1,600 miles of coastline it is no surprise that Wales is a great place for adventure water sports. If you want to catch some waves head to the three mile stretch of sand at Llangennith on the Gower Peninsula. There are several surf schools or simply grab your board and head for the waves. Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire and Porth Neigwl, otherwise known as Hell’s Mouth, on the Llyn Peninsula are also well known and popular spots but you will find many coves and beaches dotted along the Welsh coastline with a fine Atlantic swell.
The increasingly popular activity of coasteering is perfect for those adrenaline junkies who want to combine wild swimming with climbing, caving and cliff jumping. Whilst not for the fainthearted it is a great way to explore the Welsh coastline. In North Wales Anglesey Adventures and Abersoch Watersports offer coasteering adventures, whilst in South Wales Pembrokeshire is a great spot for coasteering with Celtic Quest and Outer Reef Coasteering just two of many providers offering exciting days out.
Hiking
Climbing to the top of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, is likely to be on the bucket list for those keen to lace up your walking boots. However, Snowdon is just one of many fantastic peaks to tackle in North Wales. Carnedd Llewelyn, Carnedd Dafydd and Glyder Fawr in the Snowdonia National Park are all popular alternatives. For something a bit more off the beaten track, The Rhinogs are arguably the wildest and most rugged mountains in Wales.
In South Wales, the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) offers fantastic hiking ranging from climbing Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, to scenic woodland and waterfall trails. If you want to swap mountain scenery for coastal vistas Wales has mile and miles of coastal footpaths to explore along the Wales Coast Path. From hidden coves, dramatic sea cliffs and golden sandy beaches there are plenty of stunning landscapes.
Zip wiring
If you fancy a birds eye view of Wales then zip wiring is the activity for you! Zip World operates in several locations across Wales offering you the opportunity to fly through the air at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour. Velocity, near Bethesda, is the world’s fastest, and Europe’s longest, zip wire line. Once you have warmed up on The Little Zipper, you can race your friends across the main line taking in views of the Ogwen Valley and the bright blue lake below. Phoenix at Zip World Tower near Aberdare is the world’s fastest seated zip line or fly high above the iconic roof canopy at the Principality Stadium, home to Welsh rugby, in Cardiff on the Stadium Flyer.
Mountain biking
From purpose built trails, massive downhill parks and epic mountain days out, Wales is a fantastic destination to go mountain biking. Coed y Brennin, near Dolgellau in Snowdonia National Park, is world-renowned for its extensive network of all-weather trails. From the infamous ‘Beast’ to the family friendly ‘MinorTaur’ there is something for everyone here. Alternatively, Antur Stiniog Bike Park located in the slate quarries near Blaenau Ffestiniog offers an uplift service for 14 fantastic trails ranging from beginner friendly greens to steep technical blacks. Gwydir Mawr and Bach and Penmachno near Betws y Coed also offer fantastic biking tracks.
In Mid Wales, explore the waymarked trails at the Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre near Aberystwyth or enjoy the sweeping trails at Dyfi Park Park near Machynlleth. In South Wales, Bike Park Wales, Dirt Farm and Mountain View Bike Park all offer uplift services or head to Afan Forest Park for a wide selection of all weather single track rides.
Castle Days
Caerphilly Castle
Often referred to as ‘the land of castles’ it is hard to visit Wales without exploring at least one medieval fortress whilst on holiday here. Spanning 30 acres, Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales, and the second largest in the UK. It is often nick named the ‘Welsh Tower of Pisa’, due to the south east tower leaning at an angle of 10 degrees which is more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The castle is famous for its intricate system of lakes and moats and it is also rumoured to be haunted by the spirit of Alice of Angoulême, the wife of Gilbert de Clare who built the castle, who reportedly died of a broken heart. Just four miles down the road you can also visit the fairytale Castell Coch with its conical towers and luxurious interiors. Located less than half an hour from Cardiff, Caerphilly is a great day trip out of the city.
Conwy Castle
Overlooking the River Conwy, Conwy Castle is widely considered the most impressive of King Edward I’s Welsh fortresses. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features eight large circular towers as well as medieval royal apartments where you can see the giant oven in the bakehouse and the private chapel used by the king and queen. Walk around the castle walls for a fantastic view of Conwy and far reaching views of the estuary and down the Conwy Valley. Beyond the famous castle, Conwy is a pretty medieval walled town sitting on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park. Explore the independent shops, go crabbing on the quay or visit the smallest house in Great Britain.
Harlech Castle
If the sea breeze doesn’t blow you away, then the breathtaking views from the dramatic cliff top setting of Harlech Castle will. With the vast stretch of sand at Harlech Beach to the west and the majestic peaks of Snowdonia to the east, there is a fantastic view from all directions as you walk around the castle walls. Harlech Castle, also a World Heritage Site and one of Edward I’s ‘Iron Ring’ fortifications, was designed by Master James of St George. One of its notable features is a concentric ‘walls within walls’ design, making it nearly impregnable for its time. Previously only accessible by a steep flight of stairs, today the modern floating footbridge allows level access from the visitor centre directly into the Great Gatehouse.
Cardiff Castle
From Roman ruins and medieval towers to lavish Victorian interiors, you can explore 2,000 years of history all in one place at Cardiff Castle. Marvel at the lavishly decorated rooms including the Arab Room, the Banqueting Hall, and the Library with their intricate carvings and stained glass or enjoy the 360-degree views of the city from the 12th Century Norman Keep. Learn more about the castle’s role in World War II where tunnels were built into the castle walls acting as air-raid shelters. Featuring interactive exhibitions and audio guides a trip to Cardiff Castle is fun for the whole family. The central location in the heart of Cardiff makes it easy to pop in for a quick visit, or enjoy a full day exploring this medieval fortress.
Fun facts
… St Davids in Pembrokeshire is the smallest city in the UK, with a population of just over 1,300
… Wales is famously home to more sheep than people by a ratio of approximately 3 to 1, with over 9 million sheep and roughly 3 million humans
… Wales has over 600 castles, boasting more per square mile than any other country
… The town of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, located on the island of Anglesey, is famous for having the longest place name in Europe
… The Welsh language is one of the oldest living languages in Europe. Have a go at pronouncing the Welsh names on the road signs when you visit!
Holiday inspiration links
A guide to 6 great mountains to climb in Wales
Top six adventure holidays in Wales
Cardigan and the Ceredigion Coast Travel Guide