Despite its modest size, Wales offers a diverse and ever-changing landscape. Situated to the west of England, this Celtic country stretches approximately 290km in length and 95km in width.
Navigating through Wales is a breeze. A journey from the northern to the southern tip takes roughly four-and-a-half hours. Along the way, you’ll see a mix of mountainous terrain, picturesque coastlines, quaint villages and bustling cities.
With more than 600 castles, three national parks, a dozen enchanting steam train rides and four UNESCO World Heritage sites, there’s no shortage of historical and natural wonders in Wales.
You can also visit award-winning beaches, vibrant market towns, and the dynamic capital city of Cardiff.
Here are seven stunning places in Wales you should add to your bucket list.
Beaumaris Castle
Beaumaris Castle stands as an architectural masterpiece and a testament to medieval engineering prowess. A visit to this remarkable fortress is an immersion into history, where travellers can marvel at its concentric design, fortified walls and strategically placed moats.
Built in the late 13th century, it remains an outstanding example of Edwardian military architecture, showcasing the grand ambitions of King Edward I in his conquest of Wales. Beaumaris Castle’s picturesque setting on the Isle of Anglesey, with views of the surrounding sea and mountains, adds to its allure. Exploring its well-preserved chambers, including the lofty great hall and intricately designed chapel, transports visitors to a bygone era, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a glimpse into Wales’ rich past.
Cardiff
Wales’ capital Cardiff is a small but vibrant city with plenty to see and do. Cardiff Castle, a majestic 2000-year-old fortress, takes you on a captivating tour through centuries of Welsh history.
But Cardiff isn’t just about its past, weaving through the city is nearly a kilometre of arcades, dating back to Victorian and Edwardian times. Inside you can find independent shops, family run cafes and cute boutiques.
From the world-class exhibits at the National Museum Cardiff to the lively atmosphere of the Cardiff Bay waterfront, there’s always something happening.
Snowdonia
Snowdonia, located in the heart of Wales, appeals to adventurers and nature lovers with its unparalleled natural beauty. At its core is Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales and England, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike with breathtaking vistas at its summit.
But Snowdonia is not just for mountaineers. The coastline of Snowdonia is rated as some of the finest in Britain, and you’ll also find stunning lowland forests, valleys, rivers and rolling pastures.
If you’re a food lover, Snowdonia prides itself on producing some of the finest local food and drink in Wales. They produce everything from handmade chocolates to craft beers, and delicious cheeses to sweet honey.
Rhossili Beach
Rhossili Beach, on the south coast, has been crowned Wales’ best by TripAdvisor. It’s dog-friendly and the golden sands stretch for almost 5km. From here, you can visit the area’s most famous landmark, Worm’s Head – an island joined to the mainline by a rocky causeway, which can only be seen two and a half hours before and after low tide.
It’s a walker’s dream with routes in all directions, including the Wales Coast Path.
Penarth
This quaint seaside town has it all: a stylish pavilion on the pier, a Victorian arcade in the city centre and rows of colourful houses lining the long pebble beach. The restored Art Deco Penarth Pier is truly special. It is home to the fantastic Waterloo tea and coffee shop, a gallery and a cinema. If you wake up early you can see a spectacular sunrise from the promenade.
Penarth is just a stone’s throw from Cardiff Bay. Take a water taxi from Penarth Marina or walk, cycle or catch a land-train across the Barrage.
Devil’s Bridge Falls
Deep in the Cambrian Mountains among mystical woodlands is a waterfall so awe-inspiring that William Wordsworth wrote a poem about it, called To The Torrent At The Devil’s Bridge.
The best way to experience the waterfall is by taking the Devil’s Bridge Falls Nature Trail – a circular walk lasting around 45 minutes (although not accessible to everyone).
Along the route, you’ll see three bridges stacked one on top of another, built at different times throughout history. Legend has it the original bridge was built by the devil, who asked for the soul of whoever first crossed the bridge in return. He didn’t quite get what he bargained for as a dog – not a human – was the first soul to cross the bridge.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Made out of stone and iron, this tall structure is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally opened in the early 1800s, it provides a pathway for the Llangollen Canal.
You can walk along the bridge next to the canal and enjoy the sweeping views. If you’re feeling adventurous, 17km of the canal – crossing over the aqueduct – is a well-loved canoe trail.
Have you visited Wales? Are there any other places you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments section below.
