Nature & History in Wales - 7 Days
Highlights
- Explore Wales' dramatic history, prehistoric ruins, and medieval Caernarfon Castle
- Hike and bike through the rolling mountains of the Brecon Beacons
- Go coasteering along the spectacular Pembrokeshire coastline
- Stay in laid-back country inns and fabulous country house hotels
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Transfer to Wye Valley, Brecon Beacons | Brecon Beacons |
| Day 2 | Sugar Loaf Peak | Brecon Beacons |
| Days 3-5 | Pembrokeshire National Park | Pembrokeshire |
| Day 6 | Snowdonia National Park | Snowdonia |
| Day 7 | Caernarfon Castle, Harlech & Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Wye Valley, Brecon Beacons
Start your adventure in Wales with a drive to Wye Valley, deep in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The wild landscapes of high grasslands, heather plateaus, and fast-flowing rivers are home to some of Wales' most famous stories, including the legend of King Arthur and his court.
Explore remains of prehistoric stone circles and burial chambers, Iron Age hillforts, and Roman encampments. Spend the afternoon hiking around to find peaks and the impressive northern rim, marked with glacier-worn hollows, glacial lakes, and spectacular waterfalls.
Day 2: Sugar Loaf Peak
The sweeping landscape of Brecon Beacons National Park is home to four mountain ranges and the highest peak in South Wales, Pen-y-Fan. Spend the day hiking on one of the many trails, or rent a bike and explore the hillsides on two wheels. Sugar Loaf peak is a particularly lovely and easy hike, with rewarding views of the surrounding farmland from the grassy peak.
The hillsides in the Brecon Beacons are riddled with extraordinary caverns, potholes, and subterranean passages. In the afternoon take the opportunity to explore the hidden world underfoot and tour local caves.
Days 3-5: Pembrokeshire National Park
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Explore the Pembrokeshire coastline, hike along the 186 miles of winding coastal paths, and stop in sleepy harbor villages. To see prehistoric sites walk along the 8-mile Preseli Hills trail and enjoy the panoramic views of Pembrokeshire and the open ocean.
Spend time in the ocean on a coasteering adventure, exploring sea caves, coves, and cliffs while scrambling, swimming, and cliff jumping your way across the rugged coastline. Paddle a sea kayak into the ocean to find rocky pinnacles, rugged arches, and secluded beaches—perfect for an afternoon picnic.
Keep an eye out for wildlife—this section of the coast is a world-famous birdwatcher's destination thanks to the colonies of rare seabirds which nest on impossibly steep cliffs. Grey seals, dolphins, porpoises, and basking sharks also call this stretch of water home.
Day 6: Snowdonia National Park
The rugged mountains of Snowdonia are the landscape of Wales' adventure capital. Hike to the top of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), the highest point in Wales and England, to see panoramic views. Head to Coed-y-Brenin, a mountain biking hub, to explore a variety of trails—from gentle family rides to black trail rollercoasters.
The Snowdonia mountains are cut with steep ravines and narrow river valleys, which make for the perfect gorge scrambling, canyoneering, or white water rafting adventures. No matter what you prefer, there's an adventure for every visitor here.
Day 7: Caernarfon Castle, Harlech & Depart
Visit the imposing medieval Caernarfon Castle, the official residence of Edward I. Controversial for its role in underlining the defeat of Wales by the English in the 13th century, this castle is steeped in history and legend. The castle was also home for some time to the medieval ruler Owain Glyndŵr, who instigated a fierce and long-running revolt against the English invaders. In more recent history, Charles Philip Arthur George was crowned Prince of Wales here in 1969.
In the afternoon explore the lovely seaside village of Harlech and grab a bite to eat and a beer to drink in a cozy pub before heading home.
More Great Wales Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Wales? Check out these other Wales itineraries, explore different ways to spend a week in Wales, or learn about the best time of year to visit Wales.
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