welsh tourist board driving routes

The Ultimate 5 to 7-Day Wales Road Trip Itinerary

Published on December 6, 2023

by Neota Langley

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Taking a Wales road trip from the majestic peaks of Snowdonia National Park (known as Eryri in Welsh) to the windswept shores of the Pembrokeshire Coast is the best way to immerse yourself in this land where breath-taking landscapes and charming towns and cities are combined.

Take 5 to 7 days in Wales to fully immerse yourself in the warmth of Welsh hospitality, sample traditional cuisine, and embark on a journey that reveals the fascinating Celtic heritage of this often underrated gem. 

Located on the windswept west coast of the United Kingdom, Wales is home to endless rugged landscapes, ancient history, and a vibrant cultural scene. This enchanting country is not to be overlooked, for it reveals a treasure trove of experiences. Perfect for those who seek to take the road less travelled. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Wales?

Wales is a country in itself but it is much smaller than the likes of Ireland or Scotland . This makes it the perfect location for a week-long getaway. Although you won’t be able to explore every corner with 5-7 days, that doesn’t mean you can’t easily experience the highlights. 

With 5 days in Wales, you will be able to hit the two largest national parks, the rugged and mountainous Snowdonia and the glorious coastline of Pembrokeshire.

For the purpose of this itinerary, we begin in the north and come to a close in the south which makes this a circular road trip. This means you can experience the variation of this country in a short amount of time.

Depending on your priorities, you could easily swap out some of the more outdoorsy activities for days spent in Wales’ towns and cities. That’s the joy of exploring such a small country.  

If you have 1 week in Wales, you will be able to visit all 3 national parks. Ramble along coastal footpaths, climb mountains and visit the country’s capital, Cardiff. Discover local cuisine such as Bara Brith (fruit loaf), Lava Bread (seaweed) and the incredibly moreish Welsh Cakes.

The Celtic past and delve into the myths and legends that surround Wales. One week is the perfect amount of time to spend in this varied country but if you do have more time on your hands, we have included some additional locations at the end of this itinerary that are worth adding to your route. 

Getting To & Around Wales

Getting to Wales is relatively straightforward, thanks to its air, rail, road and sea connections. This itinerary is set up as a Wales road trip so, the best way to make the most out of your time here, is by car.

If you are visiting the UK and don’t have a car with you, there are several hire locations across the country where you can pick up, and drop off your hire car. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options.

There are public transport options if you are unable to hire a car but across the more rural parts, the timetables can be sparse. Visiting Wales is doable when relying on public transport but you will have to allow extra time for connections and there may be certain areas you won’t be able to explore. You can view schedules here.

If you are travelling from further afield, there is one major airport in Cardiff which offers flights to a wide range of destinations across Europe and beyond. There are also direct ferries connecting Anglesey and Fishguard with Ireland . 

5-7 Day Wales Itinerary

Welcome to Wales, from the mountains in the north to the golden sandy beaches in the south, this road trip whisks you away on a journey of discovery. Take the slow road and explore the hidden gems throughout this Wales itinerary. 

Day 1 – Anglesey

For the purpose of this itinerary, our road trip begins in the north and you can’t get any further north than the island of Anglesey. Known as the “Mother of Wales,” this island, attached to the mainland by the Menai Bridge, is a wild place full of ancient ruins, windswept landscapes, and picturesque villages. 

Anglesey makes the perfect day trip, although you could easily take longer to explore the coast. Start your day by driving over the Menai Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge connecting Anglesey to mainland Wales.

If you have been stuck in the car for a few hours, you will find the National Trust property Plas Newydd on the other side of the bridge. It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, with beautiful views across the Menai Strait, especially if you have a four-legged companion. 

There are a few options for spending the day on Anglesey, depending on what you want to see and do with your time. 

For those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and embrace the serenity, head down to Newborough Forest. Take a peaceful stroll amidst the towering pine trees before reaching the stunning Llanddwyn Island. Explore its historic lighthouse, ruins, and peaceful beaches.

To get the best of both worlds, head to South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve, where the South Stack Lighthouse stands proudly against the dramatic coastal backdrop.

Take a stroll along the cliffs for breathtaking views out to sea. Then, in the afternoon, you will have time to explore Holyhead, the largest town on Anglesey. Visit St. Cybi’s Church and unwind beside the Holyhead Harbour. 

For the evening, return to the mainland, maybe making a pit stop a the incredible Conwy Castle or Caernarfon Castle on the north coast. For the first two nights of this itinerary, we will be based in or around Snowdonia National Park . 

Where to Stay Near Snowdonia National Park

Hafan Artro – This small hotel in the village of Llanbedr is a great base for exploring North Wales. They have free on-site parking, a full breakfast and a range of comfortable rooms available.

The Tilman – Those after luxury will love this 5-star hotel during their time in North Wales. They have several luxe rooms to choose from, a fab breakfast available and amenities including an on-site bar to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Snowdonia hotels!

Day 2 – Snowdon (Eryri)

After a peaceful day enjoying the sea breeze over on the island of Anglesey, it’s time to lace up those hiking boots to head up to the tallest mountain in Wales, Snowdon (Eryri in Welsh). 

For those who love walking and want to complete the challenge of the ascent, the hike up to the summit is beautiful and accessible for most fitness levels/ages during the summer months.

For those who would rather reserve their energy, there is a train that chugs up the steep mountainside to reach the top from Llanberis. No effort required. 

If you are hiking, it’s best to set out early. During the peak season, the path can become crowded, especially later in the day. There are 6 pedestrian routes to the summit but the two that start and finish on the Pen Y Pass road are the best.

You can also create a circuit with these two routes which gives a little more diversity than the other paths. You can park your car in the Pan y Pass car park but you will need to book ahead for a spot during the summer.

Head out on the ‘Pyg’ trail and return on the ‘Miners’ – this way, you could pack your swimwear and take a dip in the Llyn Llydaw, a chilly mountain lake, to cool off on the return. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear, pack a coat and take plenty of snacks and water.

The weather can change very quickly in the mountains so it’s always best to be prepared, even if it’s a beautiful sunny day in the car park. 

You will most likely spend the entire day in the mountains, the hike takes between 6-8 hours. If you are an inexperienced hiker and prefer to go with a guide you can  join a hiking tour  or  organise a private hike.

As you return to your car, it’s likely you will need to have a good meal to replenish your energy. There are plenty of cosy pubs offering meals beside the fire around the area, including ‘The Heights’ in Llanberis.

There is also a pizza restaurant serving the best wood-fired pizzas in North Wales called ‘ Hangin Pizzeria ’ in Betws-y-Coed a short drive away which is definitely worth the trip.  

Day 3 – Portmeirion/Mid Wales 

After spending 2 nights in North Wales, day 3 is a road trip day. We have added a few options for pit stops along the way so depending on how much time you have, you could visit one or all three.

The drive itself takes between 3-4 hours depending on where exactly your accommodation is. There is one main road down the west coast of Wales and you’re in luck, it’s an incredibly scenic drive through mountains and along the coast road. 

Our first stop is a slight detour from the main road but is well worth visiting, especially during the summer months when the sun is shining. 

Portmeirion – Is this really Wales? You’d be forgiven for confusing the village of Portmeirion with a quaint village in Italy. It defies convention with an enchanting blend of Italianate architecture and lush landscapes.

Conceived by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this colourful haven transports visitors to a Mediterranean-inspired realm, adorned with pastel buildings, cobbled streets, and exotic gardens. 

Stop number two is the charming coastal town of Aberystwyth. Mid Wales is often overlooked but it is a real hidden gem, with the Cambrian mountains on one side, and Cardigan Bay on the other.

Home to Aberystwyth University, this town exudes a youthful energy, with vibrant cafes, shops, and cultural spaces. You will find the mediaeval castle ruins on one side of the promenade and the funicular railway up Constitution Hill on the other.

Aberystwyth offers endless options for exploration, from spending time on the beach, treating yourself to some authentic Welsh cuisine, hiking in the hills, to rummaging through the independent shops along the high street. If you only have time to stop once on your journey south, Aberystwyth is the place to visit. 

The final stop is the quaint coastal market town of Fishguard. This maritime town is the gateway to Pembrokeshire but also serves as a ferry port to the Republic of Ireland.

The town is famed for the Last Invasion of Britain in 1797, an event commemorated by the impressive tapestry found in the Town Hall. Take a stroll to enjoy breathtaking views from the cliff tops overlooking Fishguard Bay before exploring the winding streets lined with Georgian and Victorian architecture, uncovering local shops and cafes along the way.

For the next 3 nights on this Wales itinerary, we will be based around Pembrokeshire National Park. In terms of accommodation, selecting a central location is a strategic move and will help cut down on driving hours.  

Where to Stay in Pembrokeshire

Coach Guest House – This guesthouse in Tenby is a great base in Pembrokeshire. They have plenty of comfortable rooms to choose from and a wonderful breakfast each morning.

The Park Hotel – Situated in South Wales just outside of Tenby, this hotel is a great, peaceful getaway in the region. They have beautiful rooms (some with sea views) and a swimming pool on site.

Beachcomber B&B – This beachfront bed and breakfast is another excellent base for exploring Pembrokeshire. They have several delightful rooms to choose from along with an exceptional breakfast available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Pembrokeshire hotels!

Day 4 – Pembrokeshire – North

We kick off day 4 in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Home to meandering cliff paths, turquoise waters and long stretches of sandy beaches, this is Wales’ answer to the Riviera.

For the purpose of this itinerary, we have split this vast area into two days. It may look like a small national park but with most of the roads being windy country lanes, it can take time to get from one location to the next. 

The unofficial capital of this National Park is St Davids, Britain’s smallest city. Despite its city status, St Davids exudes a charming village atmosphere, characterised by its stunning cathedral, historic sites, local boutiques and a backdrop of rolling hills and pristine beaches. 

Any day trip to this micro-city should start at the magnificent St David’s Cathedral. Dating back to the 12th century, this beautiful building stands as a testament to the city’s religious significance, drawing pilgrims from around the world. 

St Davids also serves as a gateway to the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, a renowned long-distance trail hugging the rugged Welsh coastline. The nearby St Davids Peninsula, with its secluded coves and panoramic vistas and is within walking distance from the city centre,  giving you ample opportunity to explore its natural wonders. 

The centre of the city can become very crowded during the peak summer months and, due its size, parking can be tricky. It’s best to arrive early to make sure you bag a spot and can explore for the rest of the day without worrying. 

Pembrokeshire is a coastal paradise, so it’s only right that our next destination is a beautiful sandy beach. Framed by towering cliffs and rolling sand dunes, Marloes Sands is one of the more ‘off the beaten track’ beaches in this National Park and even during the busiest seasons, there is plenty of space to spread out and find your own slice of tranquillity.

The expansive sands reveal intricate rock formations, tidal pools, and the iconic “Church Rock,” a limestone stack rising dramatically from the sea.

The beach is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as seabirds soar overhead and seals often bask on the offshore rocks. Make sure you take note of the tide times before visiting, at high tide there is little to no sand visible. 

Day 5 – Pembrokeshire – South

Day 5 begins in the unassuming village of Bosherston. As with most of the destinations in Pembrokeshire, it’s best to arrive early to make sure you get a parking spot.

Bosherston is a very small village, with just a campsite, a handful of houses, a pub and a cafe. The reason this quaint village is so popular is what is hidden beneath the trees beyond the car park, the Lily Pools.

These beautiful lakes are full of lily pads and if you visit in July/August, the flowers will be in full bloom. There is a circular path around the lakes but if you take a short diversion, you will emerge from the treeline onto the coast at Broad Haven South Beach.

This hidden bay is complete with golden sands, surrounding countryside and breathtaking rock formations.  

After spending the morning soaking in the best of Wales’ coastline, it’s time to head into the seaside town of Tenby. Although Tenby is a town, it is much larger than St Davids and there are plenty of ways to spend your afternoon.

The town’s three golden-sand beaches invite sun-seekers from around the world, while the mediaeval town walls surround the quirky, vibrant atmosphere of the town’s shops, galleries, and cafes. Explore the bustling harbour, where fishing boats bob on the tide, or take a short boat trip to Caldey Island, home to a tranquil abbey and lighthouse.

If you only have 5 days for your trip to Wales, Tenby is the perfect place to round off your trip. From here, you will be able to reach the M4 in just one hour or, if you are using public transport, there is a train station just outside of the walled town centre.

Make sure you grab a bite to eat before you leave, Tenby is home to some excellent up-and-coming restaurants and street food stalls such as Tap & Tan, Ultracomida and Lokky’s. 

Day 6 – Brecon Beacons 

If you have dedicated a whole week to exploring Wales then you’re in luck, our next destination is the rugged Brecon Beacons National Park.

A true hiker’s paradise, the Beacons are much smaller than the mountains of Snowdonia but they can be equally as beautiful and are much more accessible for every level of adventurer. Encompassing lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, and ancient woodlands, this national park has it all. 

If you loved climbing to the summit of Snowdon, it’s only right that you also bag Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain. Towering over the rolling hills that surround it, Pen Y Fan stands at 886m.

The climb is moderate and is accessible to most, with an easy-to-follow, non-technical path. The journey begins from the popular trailhead at Pont ar Daf, winding through heather-clad slopes and rocky terrain. As you ascend, the panoramic views are revealed, step by step. 

Climbing Pen Y Fan is a popular choice for a day trip in the Brecon Beacons, but for a unique adventure that is a little further from the beaten path, you’ll want to head over to the other side of the National Park to discover the magical trails of Waterfall Country.

Here, a meandering path leads you deep into the ancient forest, venturing along the trails of the Mellte and Hepste Rivers. The highlight is the Four Falls Trail, a mesmerising circular route leading to four breathtaking waterfalls – Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and the awe-inspiring Sgwd yr Eira.

Each waterfall has its own unique charm but at Sgwd Y Eira, you can actually walk behind the curtain of water to the otherside. This is also a popular place to go wild swimming in the fresh Welsh mountain river. 

Last on our list of things to do in the Brecon Beacons is the Llyn Y Fan Fach circular hike. This horseshoe walk is much quieter than the Pen Y Fan horseshoe but the incredible views and dramatic geology make it a real hidden gem.

Ascent behind the lake to walk along the ridgeline then loop back around, passing another hidden lake. The real highlight is this legendary hidden valley, where the Lady of the Lake is said to have risen from the waters.

This mythological past, coupled with the tranquil beauty of the lake and mountain views, makes the Llyn y Fan Fach walk a must-do for any adventurer visiting the Brecon Beacons. Plan to spend the night in Cardiff.

Where to Stay in Cardiff

Parador 44 – This hip hotel is an excellent mid-range option in the centre of Cardiff. They have several modern rooms on offer, an on-site restaurant serving Spanish cuisine and a superb breakfast each morning.

Future Inn Cardiff Bay – This luxe hotel is wonderful for those after a plush stay in Cardiff. Located within easy walking distance of Bute Park and Cardiff Castle, there is a wonderful restaurant on-site along with amenities like room service to enjoy.

The Spires Serviced Apartments – These pet-friendly apartments are perfect for those looking for a self-catering option in the Welsh capital. They have several furnish flats to choose from and a great location for exploring the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cardiff hotels!

Day 7 – Cardiff 

Seeing as we are rounding off our trip to Wales in the south, it would be a shame to miss out the country’s capital, Cardiff. This city blends its rich history with a modern day vibrancy, there is plenty to see and do whether you want to discover the castle, spend the day shopping or immerse yourself in Wales’ favourite sport, rugby. 

The city’s iconic skyline is dominated by Cardiff Castle, a mediaeval ruin nestled in the heart of the bustling metropolis.

Take a stroll through Bute Park, a natural oasis perched along the River Taff, before immersing yourself in the cultural delights of the National Museum.

It’s also worth making a short detour to visit the recently modernised waterfront of Cardiff Bay which houses the Wales Millennium Centre and a plethora of shops and restaurants.

If you are a night owl, you will find plenty to do in the city centre as the darkness draws in. From mysterious cocktail bars to thumping nightclubs, this is a university city which really comes alive after dark. 

Have More Time?

If you have more than one week to spend exploring Wales, there are a few additional stops along the way that are worth adding to your itinerary. The first being the coastline just beyond the city of Swansea, known as The Gower Peninsula. 

Designated as the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Gower is home to iconic spots like Rhossili Bay, with its sweeping sands and the famous rocky outcrop of Worm’s Head. The peninsula is dotted with mediaeval castles, such as Pennard Castle, overlooking Three Cliffs Bay.

A true haven for water enthusiasts, the Gower offers world-class surfing at Llangennith, and opportunities to discover secluded coves by paddleboarding and kayaking.

Wye Valley / Offa’s Dyke

On the border between Wales and England, you will find Offa’s Dyke, an ancient earthwork tracing this historic frontier built by King Offa in the 8th century. Spanning 177 miles, it weaves across diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to woodlands.

Today, the dyke serves as a long-distance trail for hikers and nature enthusiasts, revealing remnants of history along the way, including ancient forts and Roman ruins. 

You can explore this trail the entire way down the spine of Wales but the section that runs through the Wye Valley is the most breathtaking and is well worth taking a day to explore. Carved by nature, this UNESCO-listed Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty follows the river Wye, bordered by ancient woodlands and towering limestone cliffs.

Climb up to Symonds Yat Rock, a scenic viewpoint above the village, offering breathtaking vistas of the river winding through the valley. Don’t forget to visit Tintern Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece, founded in 1131. Its soaring arches and weathered stone walls stand as a thought-provoking testament to centuries past.

Llyn Peninsula

Another destination that is a little further from the beaten path is the rugged Llyn Peninsula. Often forgotten in favour of Snowdonia and Anglesey, this coastal haven juts out of north Wales into the wild Irish Sea.

Renowned for its rugged landscapes and picturesque villages, the peninsula boasts enchanting beaches like Porth Neigwl and Porth Oer. Aberdaron, a charming coastal village, marks the far western tip, with its quaint charm and the historic St Hywyn’s Church.

The Llyn Coastal Path meanders along the shoreline, offering panoramic views of Cardigan Bay and Snowdonia.  If you want a peaceful holiday away from the crowds, even in the high season, the Llyn Peninsula is the perfect destination. 

Wales may be a small country but with hidden valleys, towering mountains, golden sands and mystical waterfalls, it really does have everything. With ample opportunities to discover hidden gems, Wales is one of those destinations that will always leave you wanting more. 

Are you planning to visit Wales? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

9 Best Places to Visit in Pembrokeshire, Wales

One Day in the Brecon Beacons Itinerary: A Day Trip from Cardiff

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Snowdonia Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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The Wales Way driving routes (visit breathtaking places in Wales)

Planning a road trip to Wales with a car, motorhome, campervan or caravan? Want to know more about the Wales Way- the national driving routes in Wales? Confused about which one is best for you? Here’s everything you need to know about touring the Wales Way with a vehicle, details about the three routes (North Wales Way, Cambrian Way and Coastal Way- with map!), plus places in Wales to visit and where to stay.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE Wales Way downloadable guide to help you plan your trip (see below)

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What is the Wales Way?

Did you know the Wales Tourist Board have created three tourist driving routes, designed to show off some of the best parts of the country? Designed in a similar way to the NC500 in Scotland , these three routes are collectively called the Wales Way.

WARNING: This post is about the DRIVING/ ROAD TRIP routes for the Wales Way. There are many similar walking and hiking routes around the same areas, which has caused plenty of confusion, especially with the Cambrian Way and the Coastal Way. Although there are plenty of places to park up and enjoy a beautiful hike, we won’t be covering those here.

Which places in Wales can you visit on the Wales Way?

Although there are plenty of places you could include in a Wales road trip itinerary , the national driving routes cover specific routes, showcasing some of the prettiest places in the country (see map below)

• The North Wales Way covers the north coast and Anglesey.
• The Cambrian Way winds through the centre of the country, including Snowdonia, the Cambrian Mountains and the Brecon Beacons.
• The Coastal Way follows the beautiful west coast around Cardigan Bay

If you want to download your FREE guide to the routes, you can grab it here

Planning a trip to Wales?

Grab your FREE guide to the Wales Way road trip routes, including:

• suggested routes around Wales
• best places to see on your trip
• campsites to stay at along the way
• and other tips for touring Wales

Wales Way Map

Here’s a map of the Wales Way national driving routes, visiting some of the best places in Wales

Planning a Wales Road Trip?

If you are planning a trip to Wales, you might find these useful:

You can also grab our interactive map and online guide filled with places to visit in Wales- check it out here

Driving the Cambrian Way in Wales

The Cambrian Way starts in Llandudno on the North Coast and runs through the centre of Wales down to Cardiff.

The route is 185 miles (300km) long and travels through two National Parks (Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons), as well as the Cambrian Mountains- truly one of the most scenic road trips in the UK.

Highlights of the route include:

• some of the best walking, climbing and hiking in the UK
• Adventure Parc Snowdonia- indoor surfing. (home to a world-first inland surf lagoon).
• Zip Fforest- crazy fast zipline.
• Tudor mansion at Gwydir Castle
• Tu Hwnt ir Bont – at Llanrwst- possibly the world’s most famous tea room
• Swallow Falls at Betws-y-Coed

Best Cambrian Way stops for history lovers

The Rhondda Heritage Park is a must. Follow the footsteps of coal mine workers at this living museum and take a tour with a retired miner.

There’s also Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery, built in 1824 and later turned into a museum and art gallery.

Another home to visit is the tudor Gwydir Castle- which also runs as a Bed and Breakfast.

Best Places on the Cambrian Way for Foodies

For fine dining, visit the Michelin starred restaurants of The Walnut Tree and The Whitebrook .

Want to learn more about mushrooms? Visit Snowdonia Mushrooms and learn more about growing and cooking your own.

For local wines, check out the oldest family estate in Wales, Glyndwr Vineyard – don’t miss their resident llamas.

If you enjoy cider, visit the Apple County Cider in Skenfrith. You can sample traditional ales and lager at Tomos Watkin Brewery in Swansea or learn more about making beer at Monty’s Brewery in Powys.

Best Cambrian Way Stops for Adventure-Seekers

This route is FULL of things to do for adventure seekers.

Visit Adventure Parc Snowdonia (home to the worlds first inland surf lagoon). There are 25km of graded single track and mountain bike trails at Gwydir Forest.

Fancy ziplining at 100mph? Visit Zip Forest – there’s also an Alpine rollercoaster and dare-devil freefalls.

Check out Go Below if you’d like to bounce on trampolines… underground in a cave!

There’s also the National White Water Centre for kayaking and other watersports- a little off the main route but worth it for the experience. There are also plenty of wonderful Wales Motorhome sites in the area to stay at with a motorhome, campervan or caravan.

Fun fact: Betws-y-Coed is the most misspelt place name in Britain, with around 360 variations! In case you were wondering, it means ‘prayer house in the woods’.

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Driving the North Wales Way

The North Wales Way follows the old trading route from Holyhead to Broughton. It’s a 75-mile (120km) long route and can easily take 4/5 days to explore.

• World Heritage Castles
• National Slate Museum
• Conwy and Llandudno
• the Menai Straits
• the Isle of Anglesey

The North Wales Way route starts near Chester- one of our favourite cities in the UK. It’s full of timbered houses and is famous for its ‘Rows’- a second row of shops above those at street level. It’s also home to the oldest racecourse and the largest Roman amphitheatre in Britain, as well as incredible city walls that surround the inner city.

Once you leave Chester, head north-west towards Holywell or head west into the hills towards Ruthin. Near Rhyl, you’ll find St Asaph- home to the UK’s smallest Cathedral.

Cross the Menai Bridge and enjoy breathtaking views back towards Snowdonia.

Finally, you’ll arrive in the old port town of Holyhead on Holy Island, Anglesey.

Best North Wales Way Stops for history lovers

The castles of Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris are all World Heritage Sites and well worth a visit.

Conwy Castle is a medieval fortress over 700 years old. It’s home to the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales.

Beaumaris was started by Edward 1 but remains unfinished. Despite this, it’s still imposing with its 6 towers.

Caernarfon, another medieval castle, has the most spectacular location and is the investiture of the Princes of Wales.

There’s also the incredibly opulent Penrhyn Castle, built in the 19th century and home to an impressive fine art collection and spectacular views across Snowdonia and the North Wales coast.

Best North Wales Way Stops for Adventure-Seekers

If you’re looking for a little activity, one of the major hikes along the North Wales Way is Tryfan- a challenging climb up for experienced hikers.

Snowdonia National Park is home to a while range of outdoor adventures, including mountain biking, zip-lining (on the fastest zip line in the world), cave trampolining, white water rafting, golfing, and endless hiking trails, including Mount Snowdon- the highest mountain in Wales at 1,085 meters (3,650 feet) above sea level.

If you don’t fancy climbing up it, you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit. There are also hundreds of hikes and short walks along the north Wales coastline- plenty of places to explore and enjoy outdoors.

Best North Wales Stops for Foodies

If you enjoy trying local dishes, Be sure to visit Halen Mon- a producer of sea salt on Anglesey.

You can sample Welsh wine at the Gwinllan Conwy vineyard or enjoy a brewery tour at Bragdy Conwy Brewery

For fine dining, try the Michelin star restaurant of Sosban and the Old Butchers , which doesn’t have a menu.

Best Things to do in Anglesey

Anglesey is regularly mentioned as one of the best places to visit in Wales. Here are some of the highlights you can include in your Wales road trip itinerary:

• Coastal hikes — there are SO many to choose from and all will deliver incredible views over the sea.
• Parys Mountain — an abandoned copper mine that now looks like the surface of Mars.
• Beaumaris Castle — built during the late 13th century and considered to be the most technically perfect castle (its symmetry is incredibly accurate)
• Visit a lighthouse — dotted all across the coastline of Anglesey, you’ll find a number of beautiful lighthouses. You can even stay in one!

Does it cost money to get to Anglesey if it’s an island?

No- there’s a suspension bridge (the Menai bridge – although sometimes called the Telford Bridge by locals), and it’s free to cross. Cars and motorhomes can get across no problem.

Driving the Coastal Way in Wales

The Coastal Way runs the entire length of Cardigan Bay- 180-mile (290km). It starts at Aberdaron and ends at St Davids ( the smallest city in the UK) Of course, you can drive it in the opposite direction if you wish.

Some of the highlights (or places close to the route) include:

• Cardigan Bay- famous for frequent sightings of bottlenose dolphins
• Ramsey Island
• Fishguard- a pretty harbour and village
• Strumble Head lighthouse
• Aberystwyth- an ancient market town and home of the National Library of Wales

Best Coastal Way Stops for Nature lovers

Don’t miss a trip to Ramsey Island- home of the highest cliffs in Wales and the largest grey seal colony in the UK, plus countless birds such as ravens and peregrines. In spring and summer the island is full of colour from bluebells, pink thrifts and heather.

You can only access the island via a boat from St Justinians, near St Davids.

Coastal Way- best places in Wales for history lovers

Don’t miss the impressive Cardigan Castle- the first stone castle built by a Welshman over 900 years ago. You can also enjoy a meal at the castle’s restaurant, a contemporary floor to ceiling glass venue offering panoramic views over the countryside.

The city of St David’s (smallest city in the UK) is famous for pilgrimages and is one the great ‘historic shrines’ in Christendom.

Best places in Wales on the Coastal Way for Food lovers

For traditional honey, cakes and ice-cream, don’t miss New Honey Quay Farm tea room. If you have a sweet tooth, the Wickedly Welsh Chocolate Company is about to be your new best-friend.

For alcohol, visit the Dà Mhìle Distillery in Ceredigion, Cwm Deri vineyard or Bluestone Brewing, both in Pembrokeshire.

There’s also Pizzatipi in Cambrian for wood-fired pizzas, the highest pub in Pembrokeshire Tafarn Sinc , or delicious fish and chips at The Shed Bistro.

Coastal Way Stops for Adventure-Seekers

The Coastal Way has several sandy beaches and is popular with surfers and water sport enthusiasts. The waves are decent due to the influence of the Atlantic, particularly at Porth Neigwl Beach, (also known as Hell’s Mouth) and Porthor to the north (National Trust property).

Even if you don’t surf, you can still enjoy the Whistling Sands of Porthor- each step on the sand produces a ‘whistling sound’.

You can also enjoy coasteering along the coastline of the Llŷn Peninsula. This is an opportunity to see the coastline from the water through a mix of swimming, bobbing, scrambling and jumping on courses for beginners to experts- do NOT do this without an experienced and insured guide.

If you found all that useful, don’t forget to grab your FREE guide to the Wales Way routes

You might also be interested in these related posts:

• 5 breathtakingly scenic drives in Scotland
• Unmissable England road trip ideas
• The best UK motorhoming holiday destinations

See all our UK road trip itineraries and tips here

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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The Ultimate Wales Road Trip Itinerary In 2024

Tucked away on the west side of this great British Isle, is the nation of Wales. A small country with a big personality. Wales is a mountainous region, with a rugged coastline and a proud history, making it the ideal destination for an epic road trip.

With three scenic national parks to explore, a road trip in Wales is filled with beautiful landscapes that will have you reaching for your camera around every turn. There are adventure sports for adrenaline junkies and leisurely strolls for the more laid back. There are perfectly placed castles to wonder at and ancient ruins to discover. Wales is also a drivers paradise with lots of windy roads, over far-reaching vistas.

With so much to see in Wales, a road trip around this country is likely to be busy affair, so where do you start? In this guide I provide a 2-week Wales road trip itinerary, which will enable you to see the main highlights of this beautiful country that I call home.

Disclaimer:  Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps cover the cost of running this blog. Thanks for your support!

Wales Road Trip At A Glance

This Wales itinerary starts in South Wales and picks up Cardiff and the Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog), before heading west to the Gower Peninsula. Then the route journeys through Pembrokeshire, picking up multiple highlights such as Tenby, St David’s and the Blue Lagoon. Travelling through mid-Wales there is a visit to the Elan Valley before heading northwards to Portmeirion. An exploration of Snowdonia (Eryri) is next on the agenda before venturing out onto Anglesey and finishing with the iconic Conwy Castle.

The itinerary I provide is based on a solo road trip I enjoyed around Wales in my converted campervan, although I have visited many of these places multiple times as day or weekend trips. This itinerary is designed to last two weeks, but if you don’t have two weeks to dedicate to a Welsh road trip, you can break it down into smaller sections.

Despite being a small country, it takes time to travel in Wales. The roads in Wales are often small “A” roads, especially around North Wales, Pembrokeshire and the Brecon Beacons. For this reason, I wouldn’t recommend trying to visit all of Wales in just one week. Instead, focus on one region, for example South Wales or North Wales.

If you aren’t from the UK you will likely arrive in London. From there you can rent a car, jump on the M4 and be in Wales at the first destination in around 3 hours. If starting in Cardiff, tick off all the Cardiff sights first before heading out to Tintern Abbey. From there you can drive directly to the Brecon Beacons.

The Ultimate Wales Road Trip Map

The Best Time Of Year To Visit Wales

Like the rest of the UK, Wales has a generally mild climate. A road trip in Wales can be enjoyed at any time of year as long as you and your vehicle are suitably equipped. Summer is peak season so tourist sites will be busier but the weather is generally warmer, whilst winter is wet but much quieter. Plan your visit according to your wants and needs.

Summer months typically run from June to September and this is when you can expect the driest and warmest months. However, this is certainly not guaranteed and even summer months can be quite wet in patches. This is why Wales is so green after all!

In the winter months from December to March there can be cold periods and snow, although this is usually confined to the mountainous regions, particularly Snowdonia (Eryri). Those with an interest in winter mountaineering would enjoy a road trip to Snowdonia during January and February. However, access to these areas, along the twisty mountain roads will require snow tyres and/or snow chains, particularly for campers and motorhomes.

On our campervan, we have GT maximiler all season tyres which cope with most snowy roads and Michellin material snow chains for when the going gets a little tougher.

Autumn and spring are usually wet months although they are arguably some of the prettiest times to visit Wales. From September to November the trees are drenched in tones of orange and yellow, whilst from April to June the mountains and meadows burst into colour with spring flowers. These are good times to visit Wales for those with an interest in photography.

Tintern Abbey – Day 1

We kick off this road trip itinerary with a visit to Wales’ most famous Abbey. Tintern Abbey is located in the gorgeous Wye Valley and dates back to the 12th century. The Abbey was abandoned under the reign of Henry VIII but found fame as a tourist attraction, thanks in part to poems by William Wordsworth.

Wandering amongst the ruined masterpiece won’t take too much time, so if you want to stretch your legs further you can walk a section of Offas Dyke, which is a walking route that runs the length of the England/Wales border.

With more time you could also visit nearby Chepstow , a historic port town with a fabulous castle nestled on the banks of the River Wye.

Once you’ve finished exploring the beautiful Wye Valley, take the short drive to Cardiff where you can enjoy the city’s vast array of bars and restaurants.

Overnight in Cardiff.

Highlights ↗

Tintern Abbey

The Wye Valley

Accommodation ↗

Hotel Indigo

Cardiff – Day 2

Cardiff is the vibrant capital of Wales and the beating heart of Welsh politics. In the city you can visit the Roman-aged Castle, explore the National Museum Cardiff and wander the Victorian Arcades to discover boutique shops and cafes. A short distance from the city centre you can stroll around Cardiff Bay Barrage which is the largest waterfront in Europe.

If you’re interested in learning about traditional Welsh culture, lifestyle and architecture, be sure to venture outside of the city, to St Fagans National History Museum.

Click here for a complete guide of things to do in South Wales.

Cardiff castle

Cardiff Bay

10 miles (St Fagans)

Accom m odation ↗

Bannau Brycheiniog (The Brecon Beacons) – Day 3

Next up, we pay a visit to the first of three national parks in Wales. Bannau Brycheiniog (The Brecon Beacons) is a mountain range that spans the width of South Wales. Locally known as the Beacons, this national park is known for its flat-top peaks, forestries, reservoirs and waterfalls.

Hiking is a popular activity in the Beacons, with the highest and most popular mountain hike being Pen y Fan . For other mountain hikes take a look at this guide . There are also several scenic waterfall walks in the Brecon Beacons  and I highly recommend either the Elidr Trail or the Four Falls Trail.

Now Available

Bannau Brycheiniog Hiking Routes

Hiking routes include the ever popular Pen y Fan, Llyn y Fan Fach, Sugar Loaf and the Four Falls.

Enjoy 35 beautiful hikes in Bannau Brycheiniog (the Brecon Beacons) with the help of my pre-planned hiking routes. I have 35 beautiful hiking trails marked out on the free, offline app Maps.me. Simply download my pins into the app and choose which one of these epic hikes you’d like to enjoy!

Prefer not to walk alone? If you’re looking for a Mountain Leader to guide you on a mountain adventure, please contact me here to discuss rates and availability.

If you’re interested in something other than walking, then check out the National Showcaves Centre and   take your adventure underground. Whisky fans should head to Penderyn Distillery, shoppers should head to the quaint market town of Crickhowell, whilst families and train enthusiasts should take a ride on the Brecon Mountain Railway. See this guide for a complete list of things to do in the Brecon Beacons .

Merthyr Tydfil is a good central base for exploring the Brecon Beacons which you can learn more about here . Another good option is the market town of Brecon.

Overnight in Brecon.

Mountain hike or waterfall walk

Dan yr Ogof Caves

Brecon Mountain Railway

Borderers Guest House

Wales Driving Routes

If you love to drive windy roads with epic scenery, then there are two roads in the Brecon Beacons that you need to add to your road trip.

Gospel Pass – Brecon Beacons East

The road begins at Llanvihangel Crucorney. Leave the A465 and follow signs for Llanthony and then onto towards Hay-on-Wye. There is a 22 mile stretch that is single track which is amazing but might be tricky for motorhomes.

Near Abergavenny there is the great Sugar Loaf mountain hike which takes half a day, Llanthony priory is a beautiful ruined priory to visit en route and Hay-on-Wye is the book capital of Wales. 

A4069 Black Mountain Pass  – Brecon Beacons West

This fun drive of Top Gear Fame, starts just after you leave Brynamman, where the views stay epic up until the endpoint at Llandovery, although the highlight is the Tywi Valley. An awesome hike to combine with this drive is the hike to Llyn y Fan Fach . As an out and back walk this can take as little as 2 hours, however, if you opt for the full loop it’ll take most of the day. This is my favourite hike in the Brecon Beacons. (Closely followed by the Pen y Fan Horseshoe loop). You can incorporate this road en route to the Gower Peninsula.

The Gower Peninsula – Day 4

The next stop on this road trip around Wales is the Gower Peninsula. The Gower was the UK’s first Area of Outstanding National Beauty and is home to a selection of beautiful coastal walks . This 46 miles stretch of rugged coastline is part of the Wales Coastal Path which runs around the entire coastline of Wales.

If you want a lovely sandy beach on which to relax I recommend 3 Cliffs Bay or Rhossili. Three Cliffs Bay is accessed by a 20 minute walk from the road but the bay is magnificent, particularly at low tide. The long beach at Rhossili is often voted the best beach in the UK and the walk out onto Worm’s Head is a fun activity to enjoy between high tides.

The Gower is also a top location for coasteering and a popular destination for surfing, particularly at Llangenith. After you’ve finished your outdoor activities on the Gower, head to the Mumbles for a fine selection of restaurants and places to stay.

Discover all the prettiest beaches on the Gower in this article .

Overnight in the Mumbles, Swansea.

Enjoy a coastal walk

Relax on a beach

Try coasteering

Fisherman’s Cottage

Tenby – Day 5

Moving on from the Gower we begin our journey through Pembrokeshire, which I would argue is the prettiest stretch of coastline in the UK (although I might be slightly biased!). There are so many beautiful things to do and do in Pembrokeshire that it’s easy to dedicate an entire road trip in Wales to just this one county. However, on this trip to Wales, I will include the main highlights.

Of all the pretty seaside towns in Wales, my favourite is the historic fishing village of Tenby. Tenby is famed for its gorgeous sandy beaches, from which you can visit St Catherines Island and climb Castle Hill for fabulous views of the town. Around the harbour, you can wander the cobbled streets between charming colourful houses or take a boat trip to Caldey Island.

If you want to extend your time here you could add on a coastal walk. Good options include the Bosherton Lilly Ponds loop, which includes Broad Haven Bay and St Govans Chapel, or visiting Stackpole Quay and walking along to the beautifully secluded Barafundle Bay.

For a more in-depth guide of things to do in and around Tenby, take a look at this guide.

Explore Tenby

Hike the Pembrokeshire coast

Get to know our opening times, ticket prices and discounts.

Must-do addition for Puffin Lovers

If you like Puffins and want to catch a glimpse of the cute little creatures, there are two options on this itinerary.

The first option is to take the boat trip to Caldey Island from Tenby Harbour as mentioned above.

Alternatively, make time to stop off at Marloes and spend the day visiting Skomer Island. All trips to Skomer Island must be pre-booked and Puffins only nest on the island between April and August.

St Govans, The Green Bridge of Wales and St Davids – Day 6

If you didn’t walk to St Govan’s Chapel yesterday, then I definitely recommend stopping off there on your drive around the coast to St Davids. St Govan’s is a 6th-century chapel built into the side of a limestone cliff. Access to the chapel is via a set of steep stairs.

Further along the coast, there is another site worth visiting called the Green Bridge of Wales. This is a natural rock arch that has been carved away from the mainland over many years of erosion. Both of these areas are located in a MOD training area, so be sure to  check that it’s open and they’re not training on the day you plan to visit.

The final destination for today is the UK’s smallest city, St Davids. The main attraction here is the impressive St David’s Cathedral and the adjacent medieval ruins of the Bishops Palace. Also take some time to wander the pretty narrow streets, peruse the art galleries and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes.

Overnight in St Davids.

Did you know? St David is the Patron Saint of Wales (Dewi Sant in Welsh). St David’s cathedral is built on the site of a monastery founded by St David and where he is buried and the cathedral is the endpoint for religious pilgrimages.

St Govan’s Chapel

The Green Bridge of Wales

St Davids Cathedral

35 miles (via Pembroke)

St Davids Gin & Kitchen

St Davids Head – Day 7

Spend today exploring St David’s or if you managed to see all the sites yesterday, then head out to Whitesands Bay. Take to the waters and try your hand at surfing, kayaking or paddle boarding.

Alternatively, walk around St David’s Head, which is a stunning peninsula with gorgeous views. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and dolphins.

Explore St Davids

Whitesands Bay

Blue Lagoon, Strumble Head Lighthouse and Fishguard – Day 8

A short drive further around the Pembrokeshire coast from St David’s brings you to Abereiddi Bay. At one side of this bay you can find a unique cove known as the Blue Lagoon. This lagoon was originally formed when a channel connecting a quarry to the sea was blasted. Today the Blue Lagoon is a hot spot for coasteering, cliff jumping and other water sports.

Half a day is enough time to explore the Blue Lagoon before moving onto the next stop. Another short drive along the coasts leads to a headland known as Strumble Head. This is a top spot for birdwatching, porpoise spotting or simply admiring the scenery around Stumble Head Lighthouse.

Fishguard is a great place to spend the night with lots of bars and restaurants to choose from.

The Blue Lagoon

Strumble Head

JT Abergwaun Hotel

Pentre Ifan and the Elan Valley – Day 9

Rise early to make the short drive into the Preseli Hills and view Wales’ most ancient site, Pentre Ifan. Pentre Ifan is a burial chamber that was constructed over 5000 years ago. It’s basically the Stone Henge of Wales! This magical place is completely free to visit.

Next up we have a big drive (well big for Wales) to Elan Valley, in Mid-Wales. If you love remote mountain roads then be sure to approach the Elan Valley from the south, so as to include the Abergwesyn Pass. This stretch of single-track road runs from Tregaron to Llanwrtyd Wells and includes a series of steep hairpins called the Devil’s Staircase.

The Elan Valley is home to huge Victorian dams and reservoirs as well as 12 sites of special scientific interest and a nature reserve. If your visit coincides with recent heavy rainfall, you will be able to witness the dams in full flow. Tour the valley by car or if you have a bike, switch to two wheels for a more energetic experience.

Pentre Ifan and the Elan Valley both made it onto my top Instagrammable places in Wales list. Discover what else made the list here !

Rhayader is a good option for spending the night.

Pentre Ifan

The Devil’s Staircase

The Elan Valley

The Horseshoe Guesthouse

The Wales Way Driving Routes

The Wales Way is a collection of three national driving routes that can be linked together to visit some of the best of what Wales has to offer. The Cambrian Way runs 185 miles (300km from Cardiff in the south to Llandudno in the north along the mountainous spine of Wales. The Coastal Way runs from St Davids in the west to Aberdaron in the north and is 180 miles (290km). Finally, the North Wales Way is 75 miles (120km) and runs from Holyhead on Anglesey to the English border. 

Harlech Castle and Portmeirion – Day 10

Upon leaving the Elan Valley, jump on the Cambrian Way and drive north. For a mountainous drive, continue onto Dolgellau, before heading west towards Barmouth to pick up the Coastal Way. For a longer coastal route, cut across to Machynlleth and join up with the Coastal Way there.

I suggest driving to Harlech where you can take a break to view the magnificent Harlech Castle, before continuing on to Portmeirion. Portmeirion is a standard addition to most Wales itineraries as it’s a very unique destination. This Italian-inspired seaside town was purpose built for tourism, sort of like Disneyland but without the cartoon characters.

Wander around the streets lined with colourful buildings, play around on the life-size chessboard and walk down to the waterfront for a stroll around the coast. For the full experience spent the night at the lavish Portmeirion Hotel.

Harlech Castle

Portmeirion

81 miles (via Dolgellau)

93 miles (Coastal Way)

Portmeirion Hotel

Explore  Eryri (Snowdonia) – Day 11 & 12

Today we move onto Wales’ first national park and the third park on this Wales road trip. This stunning area is dominated by craggy mountain peaks, picturesque waterfalls and lakes as well as miles of scenic coastline. There are lots of things to do in Snowdonia (or Eryri to use its Welsh name), all depending on what interests you.

Snowdonia is the perfect place to get your hiking boots on and take to the hills. Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) is Wales and England’s highest peak and for this reason, is a popular choice. Snowdon also has a train running to it’s summit so if you are unable (or unwilling) to hike to the top you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis.

However, there are lots of other great hiking options in Snowdonia (Eryri) , some of the best of which are located along the Glyderau range . An easy, low-level walk suitable for families is the trail to the impressive Aber waterfall. Other easy waterfall walks include the Fairy Glen and Conwy falls. Learn more about these Snowdonia waterfalls here or discover more Welsh waterfalls in this guide .  

At Llanberis waterspouts dominate Llyn Padarn whilst at Betws-y-Coed you can find outdoor gear shops and outfitters happy to guide you in the right direction for your chosen outdoor adventure. Dotted around Snowdonia are a collection of Zipworld centres which offer a variety of activities from zip wires to cavernous trampolining.  

For something altogether more relaxing, you could explore Snowdonia by car. Driving from Portmeirion along the A498, the scenic beauty begins as soon as you enter the park. Take some time to explore the pretty village of Beddgelert before you continue on into the mountains. There are various viewpoints with lay-bys to stop at along the way.

Turn left onto the A4086 to drive over Pen-y-Pass, a mountain pass from here many hiking trails of Snowdon begin. This road continues onto Llanberis where there are some accommodation options. Alternatively, drive back over the pass and continue along the A4086 to Betws-y-Coed which is also a good base for your time in Snowdonia.

For a complete guide on what to do in Snowdonia, see this post .

Overnight in Betws-y-Coed.

Mount Snowdon

30 miles (via Pen-y-Pass)

The Royal Oak Hotel

South Stack Lighthouse and Ynys Llanddwyn – Day 13

At the very northern end of Wales you can find Wales’ largest island, Anglesey. The island is jam-packed with things to do, ranging from coastal walks, Blue-flag sandy beaches, historic castles and beautifully placed lighthouses.

Two of the most scenic lighthouses on Anglesey are South Stack Lighthouse in the north and Ynys Llanddwyn Lighthouse in the southwest. Ynys Llanddwyn is in fact located on a tidal island off Anglesey in the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve. Here you can stroll through the woodland, walk out onto the island or simply relax on the beach with views over the Snowdonia range.

Overnight in Bangor.

South Stack Lighthouse

Ynys Llanddwyn

Conwy Castle and Llandudno – Day 14

As you leave Anglesey be sure to drive over the Menai Bridge if you didn’t on the way out. This is somewhat of an icon for North Wales and makes it onto top places for photography in Wales .

There are over 600 castles in Wales ranging from ancient ruins to castellated mansions, however the Edward I castles of North Wales are arguably some of the finest, perhaps the greatest of which is Conwy Castle.

For a self guided audio guide tour of Conwy’s highlights,  click here .

After your visit to this Welsh highlight, take a short drive onwards to the final destination on this trip around Wales, Llandudno. Built in the 1950s by the Mostyn family, Llandudno is Wales’s largest seaside resort and home to the longest pier in Wales.

Stroll the promenade with an ice cream, take in a punch and Judy show or kick back on the beach and reflect on an epic Welsh road trip.

Conwy Castle

Menai Bridge

Llandudno Pier

Belmont Llandudno

Llangollen – Extra Day

If you are returning your car back to London or are generally heading back in that direction, be sure to stop off in Llangollen and walk along the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an 18 arched bridge and the longest aqueduct in Britain. It’d be a shame to miss out on visiting this Welsh gem!

For even more places to add to your Welsh bucket list, take a look at this guide .

Tips For Driving In Wales

As part of the UK, Wales follows British driving rules and regulations, some of which I will briefly outline. They differ from mainland Europe in several ways.

• Drive on the left
• At roundabouts give way to traffic on the left
• Ensure headlights are converted for driving on the left
• All speed limits and distances are in miles rather than kilometers
• The speed limit on motorways is 70mph, on country roads it’s 60mph and in residential areas it’s 30mph, unless otherwise stated.

Wales is a bilingual country and as such all road signs are in Welsh and English. You will become familiar with the word araf  which means slow and Ildiwch  which means give way. If you’re interested in learning a few basics of the Welsh language, take a look at this guide .

If visiting the UK from overseas you will likely need an International Driving Permit so ensure you pick these up before you arrive.

You can find good deals on car rentals here and these can be picked up at International airports as well as major cities such as Cardiff and Swansea.

Road Trip In Wales Summary

Wales is a small but beautiful country, packed with a variety of things to do. There are mountainous landscapes and rugged coastlines to walk along, there are historic castles and ancient sites to visit and there are pretty seaside towns and quaint market villages to explore.

The roads in Wales are often single carriage as they twist and turn through valleys, over the mountains and around the coast. The lack of motorways in Wales means travel is enjoyed at a relaxed pace and should not be rushed.

If you’re wondering where to go in Wales, then a two-week itinerary like the one I’ve described above, is a great way to see the highlights of Wales. The itinerary I provide is quite busy and involves driving on most days but the distances are often short. I hope you like this itinerary and enjoy exploring my beautiful homeland.

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Louise is a Mountain Leader and Snowboard Instructor from South Wales. As a former Adventure Tour Leader she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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The Best Wales Road Trip Itinerary With Map

March 25, 2021

Ah, beautiful, beautiful Wales! I love the place so much, I’ve made it home. This is the Wales road trip itinerary that I’ve been meaning to write about for years and finally, here it is. Move over muddy sheep on country roads, a Welsh road trip will bring you history, architecture, wild skies and landscapes to set your heart on fire. Here’s how to plan your own unforgettable trip to Wales.

Table of Contents

The Best Wales Road Trip Itinerary: An Overview

This 12 day Wales road trip itinerary starts in the south by sweeping through the capital city of Cardiff and the Brecon Beacons. It travels along past Swansea and the Gower and then north through Pembrokeshire to university town Aberystwyth  and into the north proper.

The northern part of the loop takes in Anglesey, Snowdonia and Llandudno, before sweeping east via the UNESCO World Heritage Site Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. After that, it’s back into England’s rolling pastures or international airports to fly home.

To complete the loop takes at least two weeks, or ten days if you want to push it.

Wales Self-Drive Itinerary Map

Driving in Wales and Splitting the Itinerary into North or South Wales

Roads through the middle of Wales are windy, twisty and a third word for winding again.

Progress this way is slow. So, too, is the progression up the west coast of the country. For this reason, and because the airports in Wales are close to both the northeast and southeast points, many visitors choose to split their Wales road trip itinerary in two.

One road trip through south Wales. And then a separate trip that zips around the best places to visit in north Wales.

If you’re currently based in the UK, or even anywhere else in Europe, this is probably the best course of action. But if you live further afield and this Wales road trip is the only one you’ve got, then this two week itinerary works fine.

One Week in Wales

With only one week in Wales, I would advise either following the North Wales way or the South Wales portion of the road trip.

Regional Road Trips in Wales

Another popular choice is to base yourself in one of the picturesque regions (the Brecons, Gower, Pembrokeshire or Snowdonia) and take day trips from your base. You won’t cover all the highlights of this Wales road trip itinerary if you do it like that, but crossing everything off is rarely the point of travel!

Wales excels in pristine landscapes, rugged coastlines and wild country escapes. It’s perfect for hiking, canyoning, cycling and playing on the beach, as much as it is about scrambling up and down castle walls and listening to music.

So, don’t feel as though you’re missing out if you choose to base yourself in a region and drive from there. You’re not. In fact, you may be making the most of life :-)

If you want a livelier home base, then settle yourself in Cardiff and take road trips into the Brecons, the Gower and Caerphilly Castle from there. As the capital city, there’s lots going on. That said, Cardiff is a European city, not a vast skyscraper behemoth like you’ll find in the Americas and Asia. It’s still on the small side and incredibly walkable.

When to Visit Wales

Ah, the weather. The downfall of the British Isles is the unreliability of the weather! The summer months, which generally run from May to September, give you your best chance to enjoy the beaches, hiking and the otherwise chilly castles.

Winter can look beautiful in snow and fairy lights, but snow is far from guaranteed and you’ll need to wrap up warm.

Spring and autumn offer respite from the crowds, especially in popular spots like Snowdonia, Tenby and St David’s.

Rugby remains something of a religion in Wales, so check the international fixtures if you plan to stay in Cardiff at the same time as a game. Prices skyrocket and it can be difficult to find accommodation then.

Where to Stay in Wales

Wales offers a wide variety of places to stay but brand lovers may be surprised to learn that you’ll find few of the big chains beyond the capital. Wales specialises in rustic homestays, boutique hotels and no-frills farm houses.

It also excels in self-catered accommodation. Think cottages with sea views, sloping beams and all the mod cons in the kitchen. Outside the cities, parking rarely costs extra with accommodation, which makes visiting Wales on a road trip all the more pleasurable.

Finally, of course, in Wales, you can stay in a castle.

At the other end of the scale, you can take your bed with you by hiring a cool campervan or motorhome.

• Recommended reading: how to plan a road trip by yourself

What to Eat in Wales

Traditional Welsh food isn’t too well known on the world stage but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. Our Welsh food guide will introduce you to the world of cockles and laverbread, Welsh cakes, cawl and Welsh rarebit.

Beyond that, expect to find most international cuisine in the cities and lots of hearty “pub food” in the countryside. What’s that, you ask? Pastry laden pies, Indian influenced curries, roast meats and, of course, fish and chips by the sea.

Road Trip Wales: At a Glance

• Day 1 – Cardiff
• Day 2 – Brecon Beacons National Park
• Day 3 – Gower Peninsula
• Day 4 – Carmarthenshire
• Day 5 – Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
• Day 6 – Pembrokeshire St David’s
• Day 7 – Aberystwyth & Cardigan Bay
• Day 8 – Snowdonia National Park
• Day 9 – Snowdonia National Park
• Day 10 – Anglesey or Abersoch and the Llyn Peninsula
• Day 11 – Llandudno
• Day 12 – Llangollen and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Your 10-14 Day Wales Road Trip Itinerary

Travel in Wales gives a real sense of escape into wild landscapes, poetic legends and crumbling castles. Plus some good food. Here’s your Wales road trip itinerary, plus some highlights for when you visit Wales.

We’ll start in Cardiff and then head into south west Wales.

Start in Cardiff , Capital of Wales

Begin in Cardiff, Europe’s youngest capital city with history that dates back millennia.

Cardiff may be small but she has plenty of unusual things to do, from strolling or cycling around the renovated Tiger Bay area, catching a performance at the Armadillo Opera House or shopping for cockles and olives in the covered Cardiff Market.

Cardiff castle began life under the Romans in around 55 AD and now sits right in the centre of town, with banquet halls, air raid shelters and the unexpected history of having helped tutor Sir Anthony Hopkins in his early drama school days.

The National Museum Cardiff offers Monet and his waterlilies, great dinosaur skeletons and collections of precious jewels.

And for a a bite to eat, I’d recommend the centrally based Cardiff Central Market.

You can read more about fun things to do in Cardiff here .

Detour to the Brecon Beacons

After a day spent exploring the city of Cardiff, lace up your walking boots and take the 40 minute drive into the Brecon Beacons. Covering 520 square miles and established in 1957, this green and fierce National Park is everything that the genteel Cotswolds are not.

The SAS complete training exercises up here and, sadly, every few years someone perishes.

So, enjoy the drive but stop off at the visitor centre for information before you decide to hike.

• The big name in the Brecons is Pen y Fan, which you can easily reach from Cardiff and which should take around two and a half hours to summit.
• Top scenic drives include A4609. It’s known as one of the most scenic drives in Wales.

Another great road trip from Cardiff involves heading to Tintern Abbey, an historic site set amid a picturesque village. From there, drive along the gorgeous Wye Valley to Hay on Wye, home to the famous book festival.

Explore the Stunning Gower Peninsula

The sprawling sandy beach at Llangennith and across Rhossili Bay is one of the best beaches in Wales, if not the world.

If you’re used to your beaches coming with shopfronts, lifeguards and deckchairs, then this wilderness will come as a surprise. The coast itself is virtually untouched, with just a few sheep around for company.

Elsewhere on the Gower Peninsula, you’ll find the family friendly Oxwich Bay beach and if you can handle the cliff path from Caswell Bay, then the secluded Brandy Cove is all yours.

Dylan Thomas fans may wish to stop off in nearby Swansea, where you can visit the poet’s childhood home and former drinking haunts along the famous Mumbles Mile.

But the highlight, for me, is watching the sun set over Worm’s Head, a place the Vikings thought was a sleeping dragon.

Get Cultural in Carmarthenshire

Most visitors to Wales zoom past Carmarthenshire in a rush to reach Pembrokeshire, it’s more popular sister and neighbour.

But there are several good reasons to spend a day around here before travelling further West.

• The National Botanic Garden of Wales – an inspiring horticultural complex with a bubble to rival the Eden project and the world’s largest single span glasshouse.
• The Dylan Thomas Boathouse in Laugharne – visit the writer’s waterside studio and contemplate a life wasted.
• The Aberglasney Gardens – yes, I know I’m talking a lot about landscapes and gardens here! But this beautiful spot includes tropical gardens inside a former castle. That’s just not the kind of thing you can find everywhere in the world!

I’d highly recommend an overnight stay in The Welsh House, a lovingly restored 18th century Welsh cottage set in the countryside. A pit stop for food at Wright’s Emporium is one of the best places to eat in this part of Wales.

Explore Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire is the mighty tourist hotspot for Wales and deserves its every visitor. This Pembrokeshire road trip spans two days, but in all honesty, you could spend two weeks here and not run out of things to do.

• Take a boat to Skomer Island and walk amid flocks of puffins as well as seals and peregrine falcons.
• A trip to Tenby is another highlight of travelling to Wales. This seaside down with pastel-pretty houses also has a reconstructed Tudor Merchant’s House to retrace steps into the past.
• The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path stretches for 186 miles along the clifftops of west Wales. The walking routes are simply spectacular, full of small coves, narrow pathways and invigorating sea views.
• Leap from the cliffs and go coasteering in the Preseli Hills.
• Read about more unusual things to do in Pembrokeshire here.

When it comes to where to stay in Pembrokeshire, you will be spoiled for choice. This is an area with so many options, from remote cottages to bustling seafront apartments. However, if you’re looking for a base that helps you to see a lot in a little time, then I’d recommend staying in Fishguard.   It’s a lovely corner of Wales.

Head North to Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay

It took me years to make it to Aberystwyth – and what a mistake that was. Wales is home to this university town which sits right on the seafront at the midpoint of the coast in west Wales. It’s also, if we’re being a little less cerebral, the place where a young Prince Charles visited in The Crown (and real life, of course) and the home for the police station in hit detective show Hinterland (if you haven’t watched it yet, dig it out, it makes for a fantastic introduction to the wild beauty of rural Wales!)

Half a day in Aberystwyth itself allows plenty of time to see the main highlights of the National Library of Wales and Constitution Hill and to have fish and chips on the promenade.

Surrounding Cardigan Bay also has plenty to keep you occupied and the West Wales Coast is just as pretty as the rest.

Itinerary ideas for this section include:

• Castell Henllys Iron Age Fort – while technically part of Pembrokeshire, I think it’s easier to plan for it in this section of your Welsh road trip itinerary. It’s a fabulous reconstructed iron age village with actors in costume to walk you through the past.
• The Devil’s Bridge Falls, a menacing yet captivating natural feat around 12 miles from Aberystwyth. It’s one of the spookiest sites in Wales.

And then it’s time to make your way on to the north.

Hit the Peaks of Snowdonia National Park

Now you enter the first part of your north Wales road trip.

Snowdonia is one of the most popular places to visit in north Wales. And it’s easy to see why. First, the stats.

Not only is Snowdonia the largest national park in Wales but it contains the largest lake and, for its star turn, the highest mountain in both England and Wales: Snowdon.

All that said, compared to other mountain ranges, Snowdon isn’t that high. It measures up to 1085 metres and can be climbed through a brisk walk in around 3 – 4 hours.

It’s a big old place and you wont’ have time to see it all in just two days. Here are the highlights:

• Snowdon Mountain Railway which travels up some of the steepest tracks in the world to reach the most popular part of the park.
• The picturesque village of Betws-y-coed, which means “temple in the wood.” It’s also the home to the postcard perfect but strangely named Ugly House.
• Climbing Mount Snowdon itself, of course, is a big draw for hikers. Several different routes take you to the summit on foot. Unlike most peaks, though, you can always take the train back down again…
• Finally, the views from those mountain roads also make it all worth it.

Head West to Anglesey or the Llyn Peninsula

For this stretch of your Wales road trip itinerary, you can either head northwest to Anglesey, the lighthouse strewn outpost where Prince William and Kate spent their early married years. Or take a left turn into Snowdon’s Arm, the Llyn Peninsula.

Either way, north west Wales in stunning.

Highlights of the Anglesey Option

• Getting that photo at Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, the town with the longest place name in Britain. But not, quite, the world.
• The Menai Suspension Bridge, the largest in the world at the time of its construction in 1826. This carries visitors across to Anglesey, the biggest island in Wales.
• Llanddwyn beach. Anglesey has many beautiful beaches but this one makes the cut because of its soothing views across to the Snowdonia peaks.
• Cemaes – go for a brisk walk around the most northerly village in Wales.
• Visit the lighthouse at South Stack.

Highlights of the Llyn Option

Often described as the Cornwall of the past, this area of Wales offers sandy shores and fairly gentle coves without the celebrity buzz.

• Abersoch is one of the busier seaside villages, with cafes and bars along the sandy beach. It hosts the annual “Wakestock” festival for wakeboarding.
• Bardesey Island draws pilgrims to its wild coastline as the burial spot for more than 20 000 saints.
• Tre’r Ceiri means “town of the giants” and it refers to the remains of the Iron Age hillfort that still stands here, more or less. At 450 metres above sea level on the slopes of mount Yr Eifl, you’ll also be rewarded with sweeping and stunning views.

Stop in Llandudno, the Victorian Seaside Town

Llandudno is the largest seaside resort in Wales and is an area where you can, to an extent, travel back in time to a world of Punch & Judy shows, sandcastles and walks along the pier.

You can ride the cable car to the top of Great Orme to find views not only across the seaside strip, but also south towards Snowdonia. If you’re short on time, you can squeeze this down into a half day trip but if time is on your side, take the chance to relax and have a bit of fun as part of your Wales road trip itinerary.

Find UNESCO World Heritage in Llangollen with the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

For the final stretch of your Wales road trip itinerary, we’re going to turn inland and drive you through another Area of Natural Beauty to a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Llangollen.

This is the land of slow boat trips along canals, leafy walkways and a hulking great feat of engineering right in the middle of it all. Built in 1805, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct carries the Llangollen canal across the River Dee. But it’s the pedestrian walkway that earns its place as one of the best things to do in Wales. Not only is this the longest aqueduct in Britain but it’s the highest in the world, carrying iron, water, boats people 38 metres above the ground.

You can, quite literally, teeter along the edge either on foot or in a boat. Or, if you have an entirely reckless approach to heights and possibly your life, you can cycle. It’s a different taste of the history of Wales.

Other fun things to do in the area include visiting the charming grounds of Chirk Castle and the oldest Welsh bible in St Asaph’s Cathedral.

And then from here, you’ll head out of Wales, back to England to fly home. Or, well, be home, of course.

How to Arrange a Road Trip From London to Wales

A drive from London to Wales takes around two hours from west London to cross the border along the M4 if everything goes well. Allow extra time to cross London and watch out for rush hour traffic on the Severn bridge that leads into Wales. From London to Wales, you’ll also pass by some of England’s greatest hits.

If you haven’t seen these places then see if you can make room for them in your itinerary. You can easily take a detour and drive through some of the Cotswolds. Traffic in and out of the other three cities means you should avoid rush hour and leave a big chunk of your day to see each.

Find some more details for your trip back through the articles below:

• The Cotswolds – find a detailed itinerary for the Cotswolds here.
• Bristol – uncover art and science in the gritty but brilliant city of Bristol.

Itinerary Ideas for the Best Scenic Road Trips in Wales

To really see the best of Wales, these are the routes to follow, the best scenic drives in Wales.

Most of these routes are already baked in to this road trip itinerary through Wales. You would need to take a moderate detour from either the Brecons or Aberystwyth to reach the Abergwesyn Pass in mid Wales.

And just plan your route through the Brecon Beacons to include the A4609.

If you’re short on time, take a detour from Haverfordwest to Little Haven and then drive up to Solva through Druidston Haven for a taste of the truly spectacular Pembrokeshire coastline. It’s one of the most scenic road trips in the world.

• From Swansea to Rhossili Bay in the Gower peninsula along the coast
• The A4609 Black Mountain Pass through the Brecon Beacons
• From Tenby to St Davids in Pembrokeshire
• Pretty much anywhere through Snowdonia
• The Abergwesyn Pass (not on this Wales road trip itinerary)

Wales Road Trip FAQs

Here are some other handy things to know when you’re planning a road trip through Wales.

Do people in Wales speak Welsh?

Some do, some don’t. Most speak English. As a visitor, you will be fine in English but as ever, it helps if you can learn a few phrases.

Diolch – (dee – och as in loch) means thank you.

Bora da – hello.

Road signs are in both English and Welsh and you’ll find that many hotels and restaurants draw on Welsh names to provide a little more depth and character.

Is Welsh similar to English?

Nope. Not at all. Some of the place names might look a little intimidating if you’re not used to the Welsh language, so I’ve added in some (approximate!) pronunciation guides for some place names.

What currency do people use in Wales?

As part of the United Kingdom , Wales uses pounds sterling (GBP.) Although geographically part of Europe, the UK is no longer part of the EU and has never been part of the Euro. As an aside, this whole topic is one to avoid unless you’re ready for a prickly conversation!

Do people drive on the left or the right in Wa les?

As part of the United Kingdom, Wales drives on the left. Road signs in Wales are clear and easy to follow, although many roads are narrow and you may have to share the road with passing sheep. Seriously. Your time on the road may be unpredictable for this reason, particularly in rural areas, although main roads are of course fine.

And driving is certainly the easiest way to get across Wales; Wales really is made for road trippers. The only realistic alternative is to take a tour of Wales, like this xx

How long should you spend in Wales?

A one week trip in Wales will give you a good sense of the place but it’s a huge rush to try to to combine the south Wales road trip with Snowdonia and the North Wales coast. That’s why I recommend at least 12 – 14 days to see the whole country. Wherever you go, you’ll find stunning scenery and castles in Wales, so don’t stress too much if you can’t see it all.

Why not bookmark this suggested Wales road trip itinerary on Pinterest for later.

More About Exploring Wales

As you enjoy this road trip around Wales, why not check out…

• Unusual things to do in North Wales
• 21 Fun and  unusual things to do in Cardiff
• Cwtch:  a new way to hug from Wales
• Unusual things to do in Pembrokeshire , the land of coastal parks in Wales
• The best  things to do in Fishguard , Pembrokeshire

Looking to drive through both Scotland and Wales? Combine this Wales itinerary with this road trip through Scotland.

How to Put Together the Perfect Road Trip

We can help you plan a Wales road trip with everything from a full list of road trip essentials to the Ultimate Road Trip Planner for people who love freedom and hate spreadsheets. We have endless road trip ideas.

Stop worrying about parking charges and rules of the road and get ready for an epic road trip with a great road trip playlist instead. Adventure is waiting…get ready to hit the road!

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Wales Road Trip: The Best Route & Itinerary + Map

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Wales Road Trip Planner

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road-trippers dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, historical sites, and some incredible roads, Wales offers an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

We’ve spent many happy weekends and holidays in Wales, and have brought together all our favorite places into a road trip that showcases the very best of the country. In this Wales road trip planner, we share the best itinerary, travel tips, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Wales road trip.

Where is Wales?

A small country that is part of the United Kingdom, Wales is on the island of Great Britain, with an open border to the west of England, and covers an area of 8,024 square miles. That’s around half the size of the Netherlands, a similar size to Slovenia, and slightly smaller than the US state of New Jersey.

Wales has a varied geography with strong contrasts. In the south, flat coastal plains give way to valleys, then to hills and mountain ranges in mid and north Wales. There are three national parks and five areas of outstanding natural beauty, which cover a quarter of the land mass of Wales.

Getting to Wales

For those looking for a UK staycation, Wales makes a great destination on your doorstep. Otherwise, fly into Cardiff , Bristol , or Birmingham airports to start your Welsh road trip. We recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices. You could also fly into London Heathrow , pick up a hire car, and drive to Wales from London along the M4 motorway to begin your Wales self drive itinerary in less than half a day.

You can hire a car  at any of these airports with a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com  who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.  How?  Because they have such a large market share, they’ve got way more buying power than individuals and can negotiate much harder on price.

For a real adventure , hire a motorhome or campervan in Wales. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site that pulls together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English-speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Wales Road Trip Route & Map

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Wales
• The Rough Guide to Wales
• The AA Guide to Wales

Wales Road Trip Itinerary

Snowdonia – conwy – anglesey – caernarfon – portmeirion – blaenau ffestiniog – coed y brenin – barmouth – elan valley – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons – hay-on-wye.

• Distance: 450 miles
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 11 hours

Wales is an extraordinary country of rugged coastlines, mountainous national parks, dark skies, and beautiful beaches.

Alongside the spectacular wild landscapes, you’ll also find historic sites, world-class attractions, and warm hospitality.

Whether you’re an outdoor activity lover, a history buff, or a family on your annual holiday, you can explore the best places to visit in Wales by car with our travel tips and Wales coastal road trip itinerary.

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

The starting point for your Wales road trip is the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or  Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri  in Welsh, in north Wales. Our favorite place in Wales, you’ll find plenty of drama, huge skies, and outdoor adventures.

The perfect stop for your first day is Betws-y-Coed, a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

The town is a great base for outdoor sports such as climbing, hiking, abseiling, zip-lining, caving, and mountain biking. You’ll also find natural beauty spots such as Conwy Falls, the Fairy Glen, and Swallow Falls to visit nearby.

Test yourself by climbing to the peak of Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales at 1,085m above sea level. Even relatively inexperienced hikes will be able to climb Snowden, just make sure you have the right hiking equipment and check the weather carefully before heading off. If you’re in Wales during peak season, start early and try to avoid the weekends, as queues have been known to form on the ascent.

If you still want to enjoy the views but don’t fancy the hike to Wales’ highest peak, you can get the Snowdon Mountain Railway up from Llanberis station, almost to the summit. From here it’s a short walk to cover the last 20m of elevation to the cairn, and you can conquer Snowdon on foot!

Snowdonia National Park is also perfect for star-gazing and only the second area in Wales to be designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve. On a clear night in Snowdonia, you can see the Milky Way, all the major constellations, nebulas (bright clouds of gas and dust), and shooting stars.

• Where to Stay in Snowdonia

Upmarket: Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: The Slate – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia – Booking.com | Agoda

Is this your first time visiting the UK? Get all the information you need in our United Kingdom Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Head to the northern coast of Wales to Conwy, to visit the fortified town and magnificent Conwy Castle, built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the 13th century.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medieval castle dominates the skyline for miles around and has amazing views from the battlements. It’s also a fantastic sight as you cross the 18th century Gothic-style Conwy suspension bridge, which frames the ancient castle perfectly between its struts.

Not far from the castle, on Lower Gate Street, is the smallest house in Great Britain. Perched at the end of a terrace of houses and painted pillar box red, the smallest house is just 72 inches / 183cm wide by 122 inches / 310cm high. It was occupied until 1900 by a local fisherman called Robert Jones, who was 6 foot 3 inches tall!

• Where to Stay in Conwy

Upmarket: The Gallery at Bull Cottages – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Gwynfryn – Booking.com | Agoda

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Wales . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

From Conwy, follow the coast road past Bangor and over the Menai Strait on the iconic Menai suspension bridge to the beautiful Isle of Anglesey, home to some of the best beaches in Wales, and fantastic coastal hiking, and cycling paths. 

Newborough Beach is a favorite of many on Anglesey, backed by the tranquil Newborough Forest, where you might see red squirrels. Take a walk through the forest and dunes to the peninsula of Llanddwyn Island to see the fascinating lighthouse and pilot’s cottages. 

• Where to Stay in Anglesey

Upmarket: Sandy Mount House – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Lastra Farm Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Bold Arms Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

As you leave Anglesey, you’ll pass by Caernarfon on the road south. It’s well worth stopping here to visit 13th century Caernarfon Castle on the banks of the River Seiont, widely recognized as one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages.

The jewel in the crown of Edward I’s Iron Ring of Castles, a chain of fortifications and castles built in north Wales, this fortress-palace is grouped with Edward’s other castles at Conwy, Beaumaris, and Harlech as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can follow this string castles along the North Wales Way , a 75 miles long north Wales road trip from Chester to Holyhead in Anglesey.

Used for the investiture of the Prince of Wales in 1911 and again in 1969, Caernarfon Castle has benefitted from a recent £5m investment, including a multimedia interpretation focussing on the ordinary Welsh people who built and ran the castle, and redevelopment of the castle’s principal gatehouse, adding a viewing platform in the battlements with panoramic views of town, sea and mountains.

• Where to Stay in Caernarfon

Mid-Range: The Celtic Royal Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Anglesey Arms – Booking.com | Agoda

Portmeirion

Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century, Portmeirion’s colorful houses, ornamental garden, and iconic campanile are like nowhere else in the UK.

Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales, Portmeirion is also known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960s cult TV show The Prisoner .

Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

You can also get to Porthmadog from Minffordd Station just a mile from Portmeirion. From there you can travel on the Welsh Highland Railway, the UK’s longest heritage railway which runs for 25 miles from Porthmadog through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass and the picture-perfect village of Beddgelert, past the foot of Snowdon and on to Caernarfon.

• Where to Stay in Portmeirion

Mid-Range: Aberdunant Hall Country Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Golden Fleece Inn – Booking.com | Agoda

Blaenau Ffestiniog

Blaenau Ffestiniog is a small town with a rich mining history and is famously known as the ‘slate capital of the world’ and the dramatic slate landscapes that encircle the town have recently been designated as the fourth UNESCO World Heritage Site in Wales, following the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Blaenavon Industrial Landscape, and the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd.

Since Roman times, Welsh slate has been utilized on roofs worldwide and has significantly changed the landscape over the years. The Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales, which spans Gwynedd, was the leading producer and exporter of slate in the world during the 1800s and remains a remarkable heritage site today, attracting thousands of visitors.

Over the past few years, Blaenau Ffestiniog has developed as an outdoor activities capital, and its location in the heart of Snowdonia, close to rugged mountains, lakes, and hiking and biking trails, makes it a popular choice for thrill-seekers.

• Where to Stay in Blaenau Ffestiniog

Upmarket: The Grapes Hotel, Maentwrog – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Plas Weunydd – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Pisgah Guesthouse – Booking.com | Agoda

Coed y Brenin

A short drive south is Coed y Brenin, where cyclists should make a stop. The UK’s first and largest dedicated mountain bike trail center, with miles of exceptional single-track for intermediate, experienced, and expert riders, is also a great place to try MBX for the first time.

You can hire bikes at Beics Brenin and start a trail from there, or visit the Ffowndri skills area and bike park to test your skills.

You’ll also find hiking, geocaching trails, orienteering routes, and running tracks in the Coed y Brenin Forest Park, with even a half-marathon route if you’re feeling really energetic!

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, find out how to road trip on a budget , or get ideas and inspiration with our favorite European road trips .

Nestled between Snowdonia and the Mawddach estuary, Barmouth’s location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales.

Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort.

The town’s beach, Abermaw, is west-facing with a mixture of sand and some fine shingle and is a popular spot for sea swimming and watersports. 

You’ll also find a land train that runs along the promenade, which also makes a pleasant coastal walk, traditional donkey rides, swing boats, and amusement arcades as well as lots of local pubs and restaurants.  

• Where to Stay in Barmouth

Mid-Range: The Tilman – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Tal Y Don Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

The Mach Loop

As you head south, check out the Mach Loop on the A487 between the towns of Dolgellau to the north and Machynlleth to the south, the latter of gives its name.

The Mach Loop is a series of valleys notable for their use as low-level training areas for fast jet and propeller-driven aircraft. With an average of two to five movements a day, this is one of the best places in the UK to see this type of aircraft flying.

The MoD says “ the best time to see aircraft in action through the Mach Loop is late spring and summer which are the busiest times for low flying as squadrons make full use of good weather to carry out their training “.

Elan Valley

Your next stop is the Elan Valley, a stunning area rich with wildlife and nature in the heart of Mid Wales. Inhabited since the Stone Age, the rural valley is now famous for its spectacular dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts – you should try and visit all of the six dams of the Elan Valley to really appreciate the history of these beautifully designed and engineered masterpieces.

One of the best ways to experience the valley is to take a hike or bike ride around one of the reservoirs of the valley or gain some height amongst the rocky crags and admire the breathtaking and peaceful landscape.

Over 80% of the valley is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Claerwen National Nature Reserve, encompassing 800 hectares of upland plateaux with gently rolling hills covered with acid grassland and in parts, blanket bog on a mantle of peat, is a beautiful place to visit.

The area also has International Dark Sky Park status, meaning that there is very little light pollution. On clear nights you can see constellations, planets, and stars so clearly you feel you could reach out and touch them – perfect if you’re camping or traveling in a motorhome.

RELATED POST – Motorhoming & Campervanning in Wales – Complete Guide

• Where to Stay in Elan Valley

Mid-Range: The Elan Valley Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Llanerch Inn – Booking.com | Agoda

Castles in Wales

Wales is home to over 600 castles, more per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Some have been lived in continuously for over a thousand years, while others are romantic ruins. Many are native Welsh castles , built by Welsh royal dynasties, often in very beautiful places and you’ll find lots along our suggested route. 

These are some of our stand-out castles to visit along the way;

• Dolwyddelan Castle in Conwy County is one of those romantic ruins – a stronghold built in the early 13th century by Llywelyn the Great, Prince of Gwynedd and Wales.
• Remote and evocative, the 13th century ruins of Castell y Bere are strung along a jagged rocky outcrop in the Dysynni Valley at the foot of Cader Idris.
• Medieval Pembroke Castle was originally the family seat of the Earldom of Pembroke. A Grade I listed building since 1951, it underwent major restoration during the early 20th century.
• Shaped by conquest and conflict, Carew Castle is one of the most architecturally diverse castles in Wales and is set in stunning surroundings.
• Another romantic ruin, Pennard Castle is dramatic and beautiful, and the views are glorious.
• Cardiff Castle is a renovated medieval fortress and Victorian Gothic revival mansion dating from 1081, shortly after the Norman Conquest of England.

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way (which makes up part of the Wales Way , a trio of national road trips in Wales; the Cambrian Way, the Coastal Way, and the North Wales Way) along the entire length of Cardigan Bay and stopping at the stunning Llanrhystud Beach on the way.

For something really adventurous, the Mid Wales Paragliding Centre is just outside Aberystwyth, on your route to New Quay. Stop off for a few days and learn to fly with their BHPA School.

New Quay is a pretty fishing town, popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, and an ideal base for exploring the west Wales coastal area for a few days.

There is so much to do in this little corner of Wales, but you’re mainly here for the sea. With every kind of water sport on offer and the Ceredigion Marine Heritage Coast offering wildlife and seabirds aplenty, you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Start with a trip to one of the activity companies in the area, where you can organize (perhaps in advance) sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing.

There are several spectacular beaches nearby, including the beautiful Llangrannog Beach, which is good for surfing.

You can also take a boat trip from New Quay harbor to see bottle-nose dolphins and seals in Cardigan Bay, and sea fishing trips – fresh BBQ’d mackerel for dinner maybe?

The famous Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas, lived in New Quay during World War II and it’s widely believed to be the setting for one of his most well-known works ‘Under Milk Wood’. You’ll find lots of places in the town connected to him and his work.

• Where to Stay in New Quay

Mid-Range: Rooms @ The Dolau Inn – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Penwig Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Are you planning a motorhome trip to Wales?

Grab our flexible 10-14 day Wales itinerary, packed with campsites, attractions, adventures, and insider tips.

Get up every morning knowing your day is planned with driving routes, campsites, attractions, and activities marked out for you on your interactive map.

Make the most of your holiday and let us do the planning for you!

Pembrokeshire

Famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands, the coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK. 

It’s no surprise that National Geographic has voted the coastline the second best in the world.

Stop at beautiful Fishguard on the way south, famous for its role in the Battle of Fishguard. A military invasion of Great Britain by revolutionary France during the War of the First Coalition, the brief campaign in February 1797 is the most recent landing on British soil by a hostile foreign force and thus is often referred to as the “last invasion of mainland Britain”.

This is also the perfect place to try delicious Welsh Cakes, a traditional sweet treat that is a sort of cross between a biscuit, scone, and pancake but unlike any of them! The best place for a homemade Welsh Cake in Fishguard is Ffwrn on Main Street. Enjoy!

If you’re looking for somewhere lively for an overnight stay, then you’ll find Fishguard a great choice. The main attraction here is the activities that the location provides; right on the Pembrokeshire Coast path, there’s also sailing, coasteering, and sea kayaking on offer and you’ll find lots to keep you busy.

The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is an activity lovers paradise and as well as coasteering, you’ll also find surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, canyoning, climbing, coastal path hiking, and many more activities in this gorgeous corner of the country. 

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There are guided expeditions and courses for beginners of all ages, some of which include marine biology education along the way.

The Wales Coast Path passes through Pembrokeshire on its 870 mile journey from Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south and follows the route of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail. The total rise and fall of the Pembrokeshire section is approximately 35,000 feet or 10,668 meters – that’s as high as Mount Everest!

If you’re looking for child-friendly activities, check out Pembrey Country Park, perfect for a family day of adventure. Set in 500 acres of woodland and alongside eight miles of golden sands, there’s a dry ski slope, toboggan ride, crazy golf, pitch and putt, train rides, adventure play area, nature trails …in fact, pretty much everything a family on holidays wants!

Pembrokeshire is also home to St Davids, one of Wales’ major cities but the smallest city in the UK! With historic St David’s Cathedral, the UK’s first pollen trail , multiple artist galleries, and St Non’s Chapel, the city makes a great day trip.

Or check out Tenby, one of the prettiest seaside towns in Wales, steeped in history and surrounded by an imposing medieval stone wall. With several excellent sandy beaches, a colorful harbor, and narrow cobbled streets, this charming town is perfect for a relaxing day out with ice cream and fish and chips, in between sporting activities!

Finally, visiting the famous puffins of Skomer Island is a real must-do if you enjoy nature. A haven for migrant birds such as razorbills and guillemots, you may also see seals here, which come to molt in April, along with owls, buzzards, and peregrine falcons. In the spring, wildflowers cover the island, making it a truly beautiful and fascinating place to visit.

The boat over to the island works on a first-come, first-served basis, and numbers are limited. Tickets can be bought at Lockley Lodge visitor center just outside the small village of Marloes, make sure to get there early!

• Where to Stay in Pembrokeshire

Upmarket: Grove of Narberth – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Heywood Spa Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Llwyngwair Manor – Booking.com | Agoda

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Gower peninsula.

Next up is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline and 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves.

Gower offers unrivaled coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and Down, voted ‘Best Beach Wales’. The dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea before rearing up at the end of the promontory is an unforgettable hike, but does need careful planning as you can only cross the causeway to Worms Head for 2.5 hours on either side of low tide.

Some of the best beaches in Wales are on the Gower’s coastline, with the most famous being Oxwich Bay beach in the south and the huge Whiteford beach to the north.

If you like your sand a little more secluded, try Brandy Cove beach, only accessible by a cliff path, or head for Three Cliffs Bay, a spectacular shoreline of sand dunes, salt marsh, and limestone cliffs. 

Surfers and kitesurfers should check out Llangennith Beach or Broughton Bay Beach, both popular spots with good facilities.

• Where to Stay in Gower Peninsula

Mid-Range: LLwyn Country House – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Ynyscedwyn Arms Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

The Mumbles

At the eastern end of the peninsula and often referred to as ‘the gateway to Gower’ is Mumbles, a traditional seaside town. Head here to walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice cream parlors tempt.

As well as the usual water-based activities, you can also hire jet skis and take a speed-boat ride into Swansea Bay from the Mumbles, the headland on the western edge of the bay. Perfect if you’ve spent the last week or so hiking, cycling, and paddling under your own steam!

• Where to Stay in The Mumbles

Upmarket: Norton House Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Oyster House – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Coast House – Booking.com | Agoda

Black Mountain Pass

If you have time, take a detour to the western edge of the Brecon Beacons for one of the best driving roads in Wales.

The epic Black Mountain Pass of Top Gear fame gives unrivaled views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, and enough hairpin bends and switchbacks to satisfy any dangerous road enthusiast.

The Black Mountain Pass is actually the South Wales road A4069 which climbs from Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, between the breathtaking viewpoints of the twin humps of Pont Aber and Herbert’s Pass, before arriving in Llandovery.

From here, you can head southeast on the A40 to Sennybridge, and then south on the A470 into the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Make sure to add Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, Pont Aber, and Llandovery as via points in your sat nav, or you’ll be routed on a more main road.

Be aware that sheep will cross the road indiscriminately and it is known that mobile speed cameras are sometimes hidden along the route in things like horse boxes or small trucks.

RELATED POST – Why We Think These Are The Best Driving Roads in Europe

Brecon Beacons

Undulating dramatically across the landscape, the Brecon Beacons National Park ( Parc Cenedlaethol Bannau Brycheiniog ) encompasses some of the most spectacular scenery in southern Wales.

Known simply as ‘the Beacons’ to hikers, these mountains are scattered with ridges and plateaus, glacial hollows that rise above forested valleys, hidden waterfalls, and gorgeous remote and empty landscapes.

There are many trails to choose from here, including the Cambrian Way, a long-distance hiking route from Cardiff to Snowdon through some of Wales’ most mountainous and wild landscapes. 

Pen Y Fan is a favorite, the route a challenging ten mile slog from the car park through forest and moorland to the steep ridge at the summit at 886m, where the views are superb.

But there is more hiking here than just Pen Y Fan. Sugar Loaf in Monmouthshire is stunning and the beautiful Brecon Beacons waterfall walk is a must-do.

From the Brecon Beacons, you can head to your final destination; either north into the beautiful and protected landscape of the Wye Valley and the literary town of Hay-on-Wye or make your way south to the lively city of Cardiff.

Either of these provides excellent transport links back into England and your journey home.

• Where to Stay in Brecon Beacons

Mid-Range: The Plough Inn – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Belle Vue Through The Looking Glass – Booking.com | Agoda

Gospel Pass

But, we have one more small detour for you, if you like great driving roads !

In the Black Mountains at the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons National Park is the Gospel Pass, the highest road in Wales at 549m. The pass is possibly the most scenic drive in Wales with spectacular views and a few good hiking routes from the top.

Snaking along the narrow Vale of Ewyas the mostly single-track paved road rises steadily as you head north before dropping into the Wye Valley. To get to the pass, branch off the A465 five miles north of Abergavenny at Llanvihangel Crucorney. 

Most of the valley is in Monmouthshire but the last few miles, including the pass itself, are in Powys. The ridge line to the east, extending south from Hay Bluff, marks the border between Wales and England.

This single-track route is not for the winter months or those in motorhomes or larger campervans.

The final stop in Wales, the capital city of Cardiff is a unique blend of British culture, Welsh attributes, and Celtic personality.

Cardiff has a subtle charm that you learn through the independent stores, laneways of bars, medieval Cardiff Castle smack-bang in the city center, and a diverse culinary scene offering everything from street food to fine dining.

There is a lot to explore here, including the Senedd Cymru (Welsh parliament) building in the lively Cardiff Bay area and nearby Barry Island, a bastion of Welsh seaside holidays and of course, the home of Gavin and Stacey!

RELATED POST – One Day Cardiff Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide

• Where to Stay in Cardiff

Upmarket: Parador 44 – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: voco St. David’s Cardiff, an IHG Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Beverley by Innkeeper’s Collection – Booking.com | Agoda

Hay-on-Wye is famous the world over for books and the annual Hay Festival of Literature and Arts.

Known as Hay by locals, this charming market town in Wales sits on the gently flowing River Wye in the beautiful Wye Valley and abuts the Wales-England border.

The pretty center is made up of skinny sloping lanes characterized by a shabby elegance that suits the quirky bookshops and antiques emporia that thrive here.

• Where to Stay in Hay-On-Wye

Mid-Range: The Kilverts Inn – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: The Swan At Hay – Booking.com | Agoda

Wales Road Trip FAQs

When is the best time to take a road trip in wales, december to february.

The winter months in Wales are generally cold and wet. It is likely to be cloudy in the mountains, leading to poor visibility, and there may well be snow. Although other visitors will be thin on the ground, this would be our least favorite time to roadtrip Wales!

March to May

Late spring is a good time for visiting Wales, as the cold and wet retreats. Wildflowers appear, baby animals abound and life picks up a lively pace again. But, remember that Wales is so green because it rains, so always be prepared for a downpour, or a few drizzly days.

June to August

The summer months bring sunshine to all of Wales, with Pembrokeshire getting the best of the warm Gulf Stream weather. This is the perfect time to road trip around Wales, especially for outdoor adventures such as hiking and coasteering.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit Wales . The coasts will be quieter but still warm and the glorious colors of fall bring vibrancy to the countryside. Don’t leave your trip to Wales too late, it will be cold and wet again by mid-October.

What is the most beautiful road trip in Wales?

We think our itinerary is the most beautiful road trip in Wales! If you’re looking for some of the best road trips in Wales, explore the routes of the Wales Way .

The Cambrian Way crosses the spine of Wales for 185 miles between Cardiff and Llandudno, through stunning national parks and the wild and remote Cambrian Mountains. The Coastal Way travels the west coast around Cardigan Bay, a 180 mile road trip between the sea and mountains. The North Wales Way is a 75 mile road trip past mighty historic castles onto the beautiful island of Anglesey.

How many days do you need for Wales?

One of the best things about Wales is its compact nature and short distance between places, meaning that even if you only have a short amount of time, you can still get a flavor of Wales in seven days. But this won’t be enough to truly explore the different regions – we think ten days to two weeks will give you a much better experience of this eclectic country.

What is the famous driving route in Wales?

The most famous driving route in Wales is the Black Mountain Pass. Picked as a filming location for Top Gear in 2011, Jeremy Clarkson drove the road in a Mercedes AMG SLK.

Is it easy to drive around Wales?

Yes, it’s easy to drive around Wales. Roads are generally well maintained and other drivers are courteous and safe.

In some remote places, you may encounter livestock on the roads, but take it slowly and you’ll enjoy the experience.

Wales Essentials

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in the United Kingdom.

• Search for affordable flights to Wales and the UK with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Wales with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Wales with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in France with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Wales

Whether you’re road-tripping in a car, camper, or motorbike, make sure you’ve got all your documents handy and your spare tire is in good condition. If your Wales roadtrip itinerary is longer than a few weeks , you may want to consider a vehicle service before you go, and breakdown cover is probably a good idea.

• Drivers from non-EU countries may require an International Driving Permit. The general rule is that if your license is not in English, then an IDP will be required. Check with your hire company or embassy if you’re in doubt.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Your car must be considered roadworthy in the country in which it is registered.
• Your headlights must be adapted for driving on the left if your vehicle is registered outside the UK.
• Unlike France, the UK does not have laws that require you to carry certain equipment in your car, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t. Being prepared in the event of an accident or a breakdown is invaluable. Ideally, you should carry a reflective jacket, a warning triangle, a first-aid kit, and a fire extinguisher.
• If you’re hiring a car, book well in advance and use a car hire booker like Rentalcars.com who will provide the best deals from all the top car hire companies.
• Understand insurance options, mileage limits, and fuel policies before booking.
• Check the car for damage on collection and make sure anything you spot is noted, and the same again when you drop it off.
• In 2023 the statutory speed limit on Welsh restricted roads, those with streetlights, was reduced from 30mph to 20mph unless road signs dictate otherwise.
• Remember to drive on the left during your trip to Wales!

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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3 x Wales Road Trip Itineraries + Best Places To Visit

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

There are few places in the UK more beautiful than scenic, rugged Wales . I’ll be sharing three Wales road trip itineraries, as well as handy tips to make the most of your trip. I’ve broken this post into three categories:

• Pembrokeshire found towards the west of Wales (get ready for lots of gorgeous coastal scenery)
• South Wales including Cardiff and the Gower Peninsular
• North Wales which many locals claim is the most striking and impressive part of Wales overall. For the ultimate Wales road trip for 7 days, I have an itinerary for all three.

Why take a Wales road trip?

Well, Wales isn’t exactly the best place for public transport. Sure, you’ll be fine around Cardiff and other larger cities, as well as some parts of Pembrokeshire. But to save time, tick spectacular destinations off your UK bucket list , and also get off-the-beaten-track and find some solitude, it’s best to have your own set of wheels. In my opinion, Wales isn’t the most expensive part of the UK. But the more expensive accommodation will be found in tourist-friendly cities. So if you have a car, you’ll be able to stay in cheaper places and drive to popular spots during the days. If you’re interested in saving money and travelling cheaply, be sure to check out my guide to UK budget travel .

Make sure to check out my Wales fun facts before your visit!

WALES ESSENTIALS Copy of Lonely Planet Wales Accommodation: Booking.com Tours: GetYourGuide Public transport: Trainine Car hire: Rentalcars.com

How to plan a Wales road trip

Road tripping a whole country can be tiring, plus it’s hard to decide on a Wales road trip itinerary with so many destinations on offer. My best tip would be to pin the places below on Google Maps to get a lay of the land and work out the areas you’re most interested in visiting. If you end up with a cluster of pins in one part of Wales, I would suggest staying there. Plan to include 2-3 main attractions per day so you don’t get burnt out or run the risk of packing in too much. Don’t try to cram in everything during a 7 day Wales road trip! You’ll burn out and feel rushed.

How long does it take to explore Wales?

If you’re wondering how long it takes to drive around Wales, it depends how thoroughly you want to see the country. I’d set aside 3 weeks (or longer) for all the places below. If you have one week in Wales, pick one of the 3 itineraries below.

Where to stay during a Wales road trip

There are so many places to stay from popular Pembrokeshire to rural North Wales and the gorgeous Gower Peninsula in South Wales. Wales has abundant accommodation options including Airbnbs, hostels, glamping huts, cottages and more. If you choose to stay in Pembrokeshire, I can recommend Fishguard which is a pretty town near to many popular Wales locations. We stayed in Main Town and during downtime, trekked down the hill to Fishguard Harbour.

Use Booking.com to browse guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering private apartments in Fishguard . Top picks: Private apartment (sleeps 2) for £75pn // Ivy Bridge Guesthouse (sleeps 2) for £75pn .

Best season for a Wales road trip

The best season for good weather is the summer months from June to September . However, British weather is unpredictable at best so you may be subject to rain and grey skies – pack your rain mac! Summer is the busiest tourist season in Wales so you’ll want to book your accommodation in advance and arrive places early to beat the crowds. Personally, I would choose March-May or September for decent weather and fewer crowds. Winters in Wales can be cold especially in Northern Wales when it can easily drop below 0°C.

7 day Wales road trip itinerary – Pembrokeshire

A week is the perfect amount of time to spend exploring Pembrokeshire. This is the ultimate 1 week in Wales road trip… Day 1 – explore St David’s in the morning. Head over to the Blue Lagoon in the afternoon. Day 2 – take the boat to Skomer Island. Afterwards, relax on Marloes Sands. Day 3 – visit Freshwater West beach. Take a trip to Bosherston Lily Ponds in the afternoon. Day 4 – take a road trip along the west coast. Stop at Strumble Head Lighthouse, Fishguard and take a hike at Dinas Head. Day 5 – take an early morning dolphin boat trip at Cardigan Bay and relax on Poppit Sands afterwards. Day 6 – Visit Tenby and take a boat trip to Caldey Island. Day 7 – explore a few Welsh Castles. Pembrokeshire Castle and Manorbier Castle are both beautiful.

Pembrokeshire road trip destinations

There’s more to Wales than just Pembrokeshire but it’s undeniably a beautiful part of the country on the southwest coast of Wales heading inland. Pembrokeshire is one of the most popular areas of Wales for tourism because there are beautiful beaches and towns without overly long drives connecting them. More details for your Pembrokeshire itinerary…

Blue Lagoon, Abereiddy

This 25m-deep water hole in Pembrokeshire is an old flooded slate quarry. The brilliant blue water is prime for diving in – if you can handle the icy temperatures! The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has been held three times here. If you’re feeling energetic, you can try coasteering and kayaking at the Blue Lagoon. For a more leisurely visit, simply admire the striking lagoon from above and take a walk around the headlands. Park at the car park , stroll past beautiful Abereiddy Beach and climb up to higher ground for a windy yet refreshing walk with unrivalled coastal views.

Cardigan Bay

This large sweeping bay sits with Pembrokeshire at its south end. While there are some beautiful beaches, the intrique is out at sea. The area is known for having the largest population of bottlenose dolphins in Europe, as well as a colony of porpoise, seals and plenty of birdlife. During your Wales road trip, I’d highly recommend parking up at Patch Beach and taking a boat tour with A Bay To Remember . Remember to book your tickets in advance for £26pp.

Poppit Sands

With 7 days road tripping Wales, you won’t have time for all the beaches. But don’t miss Poppit Sands on the West Wales coast near Cardigan. It’s an expansive, unspoilt beach backed by low dunes, perfect for beachcombing. The gorgeous beach lies between two headlands on the edge of the Teifi Estuary and has a gentle incline into the sea making it ideal for swimmers and surfers. This scenic area is also popular with hikers . Inland walks from Poppit wind through dense forest, pretty river valleys and fields of sheep. Poppit also lies at the start (or end!) of the 300-kilometre-long Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. Cliff paths (accessible on foot from Poppit) provide sweeping views of the dramatic West Wales coastline and the chance to see dolphins and seals in the clear water below. The coastal paths are well maintained with good signposting, and hikers can take advantage of the Poppit Rocket bus service that will bring you back to your starting point in Poppit.  Due to its remote location, Poppit is best visited by car. Access to Poppit Sands and the coastal path is free but there’s a charge for parking in Poppit village car park. Poppit entry submitted by Sinead from Map Made Memories .

Cenarth Falls

An hour’s drive from Aberystwyth and just 20 mins drive from Aberporth lies Cenarth Falls. It’s located in the quaint village of Cenarth with just two pubs, a restaurant and a church. Teifi River runs through the village, cascading down some rocks and resulting in  Cenarth Falls . No difficult hiking or climbing is required, just a pleasant walk along the riverside to an old bridge leading to scenic views in peaceful surrounds. A circular trail passing along a small gorge with trees and birds will bring you back to the village. Cenarth is also known for its abundant seasonal salmon which leap over the falls.  Cenarth Coracle Museum in the village is a unique place to learn about coracles, small circular wooden boats used by fishermen until the 1940s. Before you leave Cenarth, stop at Ty-Te Tearoom or the White Hart Inn for Welsh scones and pub grub.  Cenarth Falls entry submitted by Jan from Leisurely Drives .

The beautiful coastal town of Fishguard isn’t the best-known place in Wales but it’s surely one of the best UK hidden gems . The Main Town has basic amenities while Lower Fishguard has a peaceful harbour with colourful houses and gently-lapping waves. Sitting here with a coffee overlooking the ocean was the perfect respite from a busy Wales road trip and I’d recommend squeezing in Fishguard if you have the time. A scenic hike nearby that I’d recommend is…

This peninsula jutting off the mainland of Pembrokeshire (en route between Fishguard and Cardigan) is Dinas Head. A few hours hiking the peninsular to the headland is time well spent. Park at Pwllgwaelod Beach and take the Dinas Island circular walk which starts with a 40 step incline but is mostly downhill later on. Stop at Needle Rock to watch local birds and paddle at Cwm-yr-Eglwys Bay before returning to the car park.

Strumble Head Lighthouse

Another worthwhile stop on the Pembroke coast is Strumble Head Lighthouse . Although the weather was bad when we visited, it was still striking in a gothic way especially with the persisting flashes from the lighthouse. It made me think of boats 100 years ago crossing the rocky stretch from Wales to Ireland. The Lighthouse is perched precariously on a small island connected to the mainland by a suspension bridge. Just a few minutes’ drive away is Carregwastad Point where French soldiers landed in 1797 during the last invasion of Britain.

St David’s

Dedicate a long afternoon to exploring the smallest city in the UK found on the St. David’s Peninsula. visit St. Davids Cathedral and stop for a pint at one of the many local pubs. As well as plenty of things to do in St. David’s , it’s also a perfect base to explore this area of Wales with boat tours and sweeping scenery. Why not spend a weekend in the region and go hiking and explore more of the peninsula? There’s parking at Oriel y Parc Gallery & Visitor Centre if you’re stopping as part of a Wales road trip. Since St. Davids is a transport hub for this area of Pembrokeshire, you can also catch local buses from St. Davids. It’s also a popular stop on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. St David’s entry submitted by Naomi from Probe Around The Globe .

This pretty Welsh town is worth a quick stop during a Wales road trip. As well as quaint, colourful shops and a pretty walk around the headlands by the beach, the highlight is Mamgu Welshcakes . For those that don’t yet know Welshcakes, they’re tasty delicacies made with flour, butter and currants, dusted with sugar. Swing by Mamgus and try them for yourself. The Welsh rarebit on the menu was also delicious! If you want to work it off, you can take a 7km coastal walk from Solva to St David’s .

Barafundle Bay

Barafundle Bay, reminiscent of a Welsh Greek Island, is one of Wales’ best-kept secrets and has recently been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Backed by dunes and woods, its golden sands lapped by crystal clear emerald waters are the perfect place to relax. The crescent bay is unspoilt, bounded by limestone cliffs at each end. Accessed by way of a 20-minute clifftop walk, you’ll be blown away by the coastal views. Ducking through a crumbling stone archway, follow the steep stone steps down to the pristine sand. Alternatively, arrive in style by canoe from the launch point at Stackpole Quay car park . There are numerous walking trails and the coastal path continues to another stunning beach, Broadhaven South. Visitors info: Barafundle Bay is a 30-minute drive from Tenby. There’s only one car park, halfway around a mile-long circular loop, so it’s best to arrive early on a summer’s day. There are facilities, a cafe and abundant space to make sandcastles making it a perfect location for those travelling in Pembrokeshire with kids. Barafundle entry submitted by Helen from Holiday With Hels .

Tenby is a well-preserved town found on the South Wales coast with its 13th-century city walls still intact. There are plenty of things to do in Tenby from relaxing on Castle Beach, North Beach or South Beach, to strolling around the harbour clutching an ice cream. Visit Castle Hill for Tenby Castle and Tenby Museum & Art Gallery or take an eerie ghost tour of Tenby; any city this old surely has a few creepy tales to tell! From Tenby, you can take a 4.5-mile walk to Saundersfoot , drinking in views of Saundersfoot Bay from Monkstone Point. There are plenty of places to park in Tenby and you can easily see the main sights during a day trip, although Tenby would also be a lovely place to base for a few days with lots of quality restaurants and abundant ice cream!

Where to stay in Tenby: Budget – The Belgrave Hotel (£96pn) // Treat – The Park Hotel (£145pn) . Browse all Tenby accommodation on Booking.com .

Another fantastic excursion from Tenby is…

Caldey Island

Caldey Island  can be seen from the golden beaches of Tenby and, during the summer months, small boats will take you to the island. The island has a long history and today is a Cistercian monastery with the monks maintaining the island. When you leave the boat and pretty beach adjacent to the jetty, a path will take you to the main green with the monastery on the hill then onwards to the Old Priory. On the very edge of the island, perched on the clifftop, is Caldey Island Lighthouse which is still in operation. From here, you can see Lundy Island in the distance as well as the Pembrokeshire coast. There are no vehicles on the island so you’re in for a day of walking but the distances aren’t huge, and the meadows and clifftops are beautiful to explore. Visitor info : The boat runs Monday-Saturday from May to September. Tickets can be bought from the kiosk at the top of Tenby Harbour or the beach where the boats depart. Prices are as follows:

Caldey Island submitted by Suzanne from Meandering Wild .

Freshwater West

My favourite beach during my 7 day Wales road trip was Freshwater West near Castlemartin. I was excited for two reasons: seeing Dobby’s Grave from the Harry Potter movie, and trying a lobster roll at Cafe Mor. In addition to these activities, Freshwater West is worth a visit with its striking cliffs, sand dunes and distinctive blackened rocks. It’s a popular spot for surfers although not a beginners destination due to the strong currents. To visit Freshwater West during a road trip in Wales, park beside Cafe Mor and grab a coffee and seafood roll before heading down to the beach.

Bosherston Lily Ponds

Another spot for your Pembrokeshire itinerary is Bosherton Lily Ponds close to Broad Haven South and Barfundle Bay. Walking around these gorgeous ponds is an easy activity suitable for all fitness levels.

There’s plenty of parking at Bosherston as well as public toilets. Park up and cross Bosherston Causeway (the bridge pictured above) then make your way around the track looking out over glorious scenery. For the full experience, cross over Grassy Bridge and continue to Mere Pool Valley . Return along the other side of the Fish Pond to make it a circular walk.

Pembroke Castle

The birthplace of Henry VII is a beautiful, serene location beside a peaceful pond (connected to Pembroke River) where you can hire small boats and row around the fortress. It was built in 1093, restored in Victorian times, and remains an iconic fairytale castle for your Wales road trip. Entry to Pembroke Castle is £7 for adults; £6 for seniors and children; and free for under 3s. Set your sat nav to SA71 4LA and find public parking a short walk from the castle.

Manorbier Castle

This 11th-century Norman castle is another must for a road trip in Pembrokeshire. Spend an afternoon admiring the architecture, wandering the landscaped gardens and imagining how the residents would have lived 900 years ago… Manorbier is just a 15-minute drive from Tenby. Entrance is £5.50 for adults and £15 for families. Afterwards, wander quaint Manorbier village and Manorbier Beach.

Skomer Island

Photography and birdwatching fans won’t want to miss Skomer . It’s a small island of just 3km located off the coast of South Wales. While it’s not possible to visit with your own car, it’s still a must for your Wales road trip – you can leave your vehicle on the mainland and catch a boat over to Skomer. Skomer is one of the most important places in Europe for nesting birds, particularly puffins. From late May to late July, they come to lay their eggs. When a chick hatches, its parents alternate feeding, carrying small fish to the nest until it becomes independent. You can also spy other birdlife and seals. Skomer is open from April to October and access is only granted to 250 people per day; limitations are to preserve the wildlife heritage. The cost for access is £11 arranged at Lockley Lodge , plus £11 for a boat that reaches the island in 15 minutes. It’s not possible to book in advance so arrive early. Skomer entry submitted by Miry from Miry Giramondo .

7 day South Wales itinerary

There are plenty of attractions in South Wales famous for the Gower Peninsular, Brecon Beacons and Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Here are a few of the best destinations for a South Wales road trip in 7 days…

To experience the Gower Peninsula and the Brecon Beacons, follow this itinerary. Day 1 – visit The Mumbles and Oystermouth Castle. Day 2 – visit Rhossili Bay Beach and take a walk along part of the Gower Coast Path. The stretch from Langland to Caswell Bay is lovely. Three Cliffs Bay is a beautiful beach. Day 3 – visit Kidwelly Castle. Day 3 – drive to the Brecon Beacons and check out Brecon town. Day 4 – spend a day hiking for example on the Waterfall Valley Hike or the Peaks Hike. Day 5 – visit Hay-on-Wye then take a trip to Llanthony Priory and the Black Mountains. Day 6-7 – spent a day in Cardiff to explore the capital’s highlights.

Looking for accommodation? Browse guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering properties in South Wales on Booking.com .

South Wales road trip destinations

More details on these South Wales destinations…

The Gower Peninsula

South Wales is known for its rugged natural beauty but visitors and locals will agree the highlights can be found on the glorious Gower Peninsula . For a South Wales road trip lasting 7 days, spend a couple of nights in the region. With sprawling beaches and rolling farmland that never seems to end, it’s no surprise this sandy strip of the world was designated the UK’s first AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) – and boy is it outstanding! Hike with wild horses along the craggy clifftops of Rhossili Bay, or traverse your way to the beach below for some of the best surfing in the UK. Cycle the country lanes from pub to pub, or cruise the promenade to the seaside village of Mumbles for ice cream, fish and chips and BBQs in secluded beach coves.

For budget accommodation, Swansea is a convenient base for your Wales road trip itinerary. You can nibble your way around the market and visit the house of legendary Welsh poet, Dylan Thomas. Croeso i Gymru!  Other Swansea foodie gems are Square Peg Coffee (order the Mexican brunch) and Takumi Sushi & Noodle Bar . Gower entry submitted by Ben from Driftwood Journals .

If you want to base in the Gower during your South Wales road trip, browse guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering properties in The Gower on Booking.com .

The Mumbles

While exploring the Gower Peninsula , you won’t want to miss the Mumbles from your Wales road trip. The Mumbles has been a popular tourist destination since the Victorian era and has even been listed as the best place to live in Wales.

Things to do in the Mumbles including visiting 12th-century Oystermouth Castle and the iconic Lighthouse where you can relax on a sunny day at the small sandy beach beside it. Walk along the 255m Mumbles Pier and grab some fish and chips from one of the chippies. For the perfect dessert, head over to Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour for its world-famous vanilla ice cream!

You can easily spend a day exploring the gems of the Mumbles. There are plenty of pay and display car parks in the fishing village. It’s also easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation for example bus, bike or even by foot from Swansea along Swansea Bay.

Mumbles entry submitted by Kitti from Kitti Around the World .

Where to stay in The Mumbles: Patrick With Rooms (£130pn).

While in the Gower, don’t miss Rhossili which is a region at its southwestern tip. Rhossili Bay Beach , voted the 10th most beautiful beach in the world , is ideal for surfing and other watersports, as well as long, leisurely walks along the seemingly-endless coastline. Make sure to eat fish and chips at the King’s Head in nearby Llangennith! To work up an appetite…

Hike Worm’s Head

If you have good weather, take the Worm’s Head hike beside Rhossili Beach. I mention the weather because I visited on a September day that could have been December – it tipped it down with rain and I only made it halfway because the rocks were hazardously slippy. This small island/peninsular was named by the Vikings after the Norse word ‘wurm’ meaning dragon. From the right angle, it does indeed look like one. It can be only be hiked 2.5 hours either side of low tide . For that reason, it’s important to check the tidal boards (don’t worry, you can’t miss them) to see how long you’ve got. People do occasionally need to be rescued for ignoring the times which must be very frustrating for the services. To visit Rhossili Bay Beach and Worm’s Head during the same day, park at the National Trust car park at Rhossili (SA3 1PP / £3.00 for 3 hours / £6 for the day)

Three Cliffs Bay

After Rhossili Bay Beach, one of the most beautiful sandy stretches of the Gower is Three Cliffs Bay . With white sand dunes, scenic coastal hikes and Penard Castle overlooking it, you could easily spend a day here. Park in small town, Southgate, and walk down to the beach from the coastal path near the National Trust car park . After the beach, hike up to Penard Castle and follow the path back to Southgate. The Muddy Mail Room is an atmospheric place to eat lunch after a morning spent exploring.

Leaving the Gower, here are some more South Wales stops…

Kidwelly Castle

Kidwelly Castle  is a large well-preserved Norman castle overlooking the River Gwendraeth and the small town of Kidwelly in Carmarthenshire. Although the castle changed hands several times in the 12 th  and 13 th  centuries within the hierarchy of Welsh royalty, it remains a symbol of power and conquest. Walk around the battlements and dungeons whilst learning about the local ghost, Gwenllian ferch Gruffydd, who was the unhappy wife of a former resident. As a further claim to fame, the castle was used as a location for the 1975 film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail . But it’s best remembered for its remarkable history and the fact that it was once besieged by Owain Glyn Dŵr, the last native Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales. The castle is perfect for a summer picnic, great for kids and also dog-friendly. To add it to your South Wales road trip itinerary, arrive via the A484 to Kidwelly (near Carmarthen). A family entry ticket costs £12.00. Kidwelly Castle entry submitted by Tracy from  PackThePJs .

National Showcaves

If you’re heading to Wales, you need to visit the National Showcase Centre For Wales at Dan yr Ogof. This incredible location allows you to enter some of the largest caves not just in Wales but the whole of Europe. In the largest is a spectacular waterfall. You can get married inside the cave if you wish – it’s that big! The noise and power of the falls are breathtaking. There are several other caves on the complex including a huge labyrinth you can walk around. You can also pay to go further inside during a guided caving tour.  For kids, there’s a dinosaur park (with life-size dinosaurs!), a petting zoo and a playground. There’s also a restaurant and cafe on site. If you’re camping or  motorhoming in Wales , there’s a brilliant campsite right next door. The showcaves are on the edge of the Brecon Beacons and cost £15.50 for adults and £12.50 for children aged 3-16 (under 2s are free). Showcaves entry submitted by Kat from Wandering Bird .

Brecon Beacons

An hour’s drive from Cardiff is Brecon Beacons National Park. Depending how much time your South Wales road trip itinerary allows for, it might be worth spending a couple of nights here. You can spy striking mountain ranges, hike epic trails and stop by the Libanus Visitor Centre for souvenir shopping. From the terrace, there are spectacular views of the two highest peaks in the Brecon Beacons, Pen y Fan and Corn Du . In the Brecon Beacons, you’ll spot wildlife including wild horses. They’re so used to human interaction that they’ll come close enough to steal your lunch! After soaking in the beauty of the Brecon Beacons, journey towards Brecon Town for a bite to eat. There are several options to choose from including Brecon Tap for great pies, Chang Thai Cuisine (Thai is very popular in Wales) or Easts of Brecon for homemade goodies. If you have free time, stop by Brecon Cathedral. Brecon entry submitted by Emily from Dalton’s Destinations .

Looking for accommodation? Browse guesthouses, B&Bs and self-catering properties in The Brecon Beacons on Booking.com .

Driving the Top Gear Road

Fans of Top Gear may be interesting in driving the Brecon Beacon’s Black Mountain Road (A4069) made famous by Jeremy Clarkson. The twists and curves will impress thrill-seekers!

Gorge walking in the Brecons

Gorge walking in Wale s  is an unforgettable experience. The best place to do it is Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales, also known as waterfall country. In a nutshell, gorge walking involves a journey through the paths of a gorge to ascend or descend through a valley. It can be challenging but the guides are experts and adapt the route based on the ability of their group. Since you’re with a guide, gorge walking is stress-free: they provide all equipment (including a wetsuit and helmet) and know the gorges inside out. It usually lasts 3-4 hours and costs around £40pp depending on the size of your group. A tour guide will usually pick you up from your accommodation to reach the gorge. If you’re not already in the area, book a day tour from Cardiff . Entry submitted by Rachel from Average Lives .

Langorse Lake

While  visiting the Brecon Beacons don’t miss Llangorse Lake, the largest natural lake in South Wales. There are lots of things to do from watersports including kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding to rowing and sailing courses. Llangorse has the only surviving Welsh crannog: an ancient lake dwelling (looking very much like Hagrid’s hut) on an island on the lake. The visitor centre tells you more about the local legend that Llangorse Lake was the body of water where King Arthur threw the famous sword back to the ‘Lady of the Lake’. Llangorse Lake also has a lovely walk through lush green fields to a bird hide and a Victorian gothic church. The return walk takes around 90 minutes. To reach Llangorse Lake, take a 15-minute drive from the town of Brecon. There’s plenty of parking, open space for outdoor games, and a cafe with public facilities. Entry submitted by Angie from Where Angie Wanders .

Straddling the English-Welsh border is the Wye Valley , an AONB known for its mountains, countryside and the River Wye which winds for 58 miles through the Valley. Here you can row, paddleboard, hike, walk, visit ancient abbeys, eat locally-sourced food and spot wildlife. A few highlights fo the Wye Walley include…

One of the best places to visit in the Wye Valley is Hay-on-Wye. Known as the ‘Town of Books’, Hay-on-Wye draws visitors every year to browse its many second-hand bookshops. There are over 20 bookshops around the town. If you’re short on time, don’t miss Richard Booths, Addyman Books and the honesty bookshop at Hay Castle. Other things to do in Hay-on-Wye include visiting the Globe at Hay: Institute of Art and Ideas for fun events and performances, browsing the town’s antique shops and walking along the River Wye to the Warren for a taste of the Welsh countryside. Time your visit right and catch the annual Hay Festival of Literature and Arts which takes place at the end of May. Hay-on-Wye entry submitted by Maja from Come Away With Maja .

The Black Mountains

Bordering the  beautiful Wye Valley , the Black Mountains are a group of hills with several stunning ridge trails. The best way to visit is by driving the Gospel Pass, one of the best places in Wales for a road trip. It skirts the top of a long, steep-sided valley with views over the rolling countryside on one side and the Black Mountains on the other. The single-track road is the highest in Wales and reaches its zenith at the Hay Pass car park. From here you can walk up to Hay Bluff: a tough slog up to one of the highest points in the Black Mountains. With stunning views of the rocky landscape surrounding the area, it’s well worth the effort. Further along, the thoroughly atmospheric ruins of Llanthony Priory are set crumbling against the backdrop of the mountains. A pint here in the late afternoon is a great way to end a Wales road trip.  The Black Mountains are located in southeast Wales about 1 hour’s drive from Hay on Wye. Black Mountains entry submitted from Anywhere We Roam .

Monmouth is the county town of the county of Monmouthshire close to the England-Wales border. This pretty town on the River Wye is worth a visit for its rich heritage and surrounding countryside. Because of this,  Monmouth is popular with outdoor enthusiasts including hikers and kayakers. One of the most popular routes is from Symonds Yat Rock down the river through the valley to the town. Monmouth has a fascinating history that dates back to Roman times, however other eras have also shaped the town’s heritage. One of the best places to learn about this is Monmouth Castle also home to the Monmouthshire Regiment Museum. Another unique feature of the town is Monnow Bridge, the last remaining fortified bridge in Great Britain. The town has a dedicated heritage trail to ensure visitors can see the history of the town and its buildings of many eras. Monmouth entry submitted by RJ from RJ On Tour .

Abergavenny

Abergavenny is known as the Gateway to Wales but before you begin exploring, stop to enjoy the town. Set in stunning countryside and surrounded by three mountains, the Skirrid, the Blorenge and the Sugar Loaf, Abergavenny is perfect for walkers and hikers. Visit the museum in the grounds of the Abergavenny Castle ruins which takes you through the history from prehistoric, Roman and Victorian life in Abergavenny . Wander into town, visit the markets which take place most days, and explore the art on the walls of the buildings. Try Bean and Bread or the Oak Rooms for excellent local food. Finally, head out of town to White Castle , an 11th-century castle not far from Abergavenny, or Goytre Wharf to take a walk by the canal or maybe paddle a kayak. If you’re in Abergavenny during September, don’t miss the Food Festival to sample food and drink from the area.  Abergavenny entry submitted by Larch from The Silver Nomad.

Don’t miss the vibrant capital of Wales. If you have 7 days for your Wales road trip, take a break and rest here. Whether you’re into shopping, fine dining, nightlife or history, there’s loads to do in Cardiff . Visit Cardiff Castle for almost 2,000 years of history and Cardiff National Museum for your culture dose. St Fagan’s Castle and Castell Coch are also worth a visit. On a sunny day, wander around Cardiff Bay and walk to Penarth , a cute town with vintage stores, bookshops (don’t miss Griffin Books) and cafes (Waterloo Tea is a lovely spot for brunch). Walk through Alexandra Park to Penarth Pier Pavilion to spot quirky, Wes Anderson-style architecture.

Read next: the ultimate Cardiff itinerary for 1 day

For an evening in Cardiff, head to the impressive Wales Millennium Centre for opera, dance and musical concerts. To try the local cuisine, book a food walking tour with GetYourGuide or simply pay a visit to Cardiff Central Market , especially Thai & Asian Delish cafe and Ffwrnes Pizza . To get out of the city, take a hike along Taff Trail . The full trail runs 50+miles to the Brecon Beacons and takes several days to hike, however you can take a shorter hike from the city and turn back. Browse accommodation in Cardiff on Booking.com .

Barry Island

One of the best places to visit during a South Wales road trip is Barry Island . Located in South Wales just 20 minutes from Cardiff, Barry Island has everything you want in a Welsh seaside town. To fully immerse yourself in the South Welsh culture and enjoy all the sights, spend two days.  On your visit to Barry Island, walk the perimeter of the peninsula along the Wales Coast Path and dip your toes in the ocean. Allow a few hours for your inner child at the fairground, indulging in the many arcades and traditional games like hook-a-duck and the chance to win a big teddy. For lunch, eat fish and chips and, for a sweet treat, grab a huge bag of candy floss. Of course, you cannot visit Barry Island without ticking off the Gavin and Stacey filming locations . Make sure to take a photo with the billboard outside Marco’s cafe. The best souvenirs to buy are Barry Island stick-a-rocks, a ‘Barrybados’ towel and an ‘Oh, what’s occurring?’ mug. To reach Barry Island, use the postcode CF62 5TH which will take you to the train station. Here there are limited free car park spaces and you can stay for 2 hours; the better options are the dedicated car park at the start of Barry Island near the ‘Old Harbour’ and the car park behind the fairground. They both cost around £6 a day. Barry Island entry submitted by Shireen from Happy Days Travel .

Caerphilly Castle

Another Wales road trip essential is located just 30 minutes north of Cardiff. This small Welsh village has one of the  best castles in Wales , dating from the 13 th  century and surrounded by lakes and moats. Caerphilly was a medieval fortification and is the second largest castle in Britain after Windsor Castle. As well as the usual castle features such as the Great Hall, battlements and various nooks and crannies, Caerphilly has a secret in store for visitors. Dragons! Yes, you read that right. Two adult dragons and their babies have a lair at the castle. There’s also a fun maze at the rear of the castle. Caerphilly is also home to a leaning tower, ‘held up’ by a knight. This leans to a greater degree than the Leaning Tower of Pisa! Keep an eye on the Cadw website for special events where the trebuchets are fired.  Caerphilly Castle entry submitted by Cath from Passports and Adventures .

7 day North Wales road trip itinerary

With its waterfalls, hikes and many castles, North Wales is a captivating part of the country that’s well worth visiting. For a 1 week Wales itinerary, check out… Day 1 – have a day in Llandudno. Walk the pier and check out the beach. Day 2 – visit Conwy, a charming walled town with medieval history Day 3 – explore the best things to do in Snowdonia including nature and hiking. Take the Pyg Track up Mount Snowdon if you’re feeling energetic. Day 4 – journey to the Isle of Anglesey. Consider staying overnight on Anglesey. Day 5 – spend a day exploring Anglesey and driving over to Holy Island. Day 6 – explore postcard-perfect Portmeirion.

North Wales road trip destinations

More details on these North Wales destinations…

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park encompasses a mighty 823 sq. miles in northern Wales. It’s home to the tallest mountain in Wales, Mt Snowdon at 1085m and it’s also this mountain that gives the park its name.   While there are many  things to do in Snowdonia , reaching the summit of Mt Snowdon is by far the most challenging. There are several different trails to hike to the summit with varying levels of difficulty. One of the most popular is the Pyg Track, which is the shortest hike and offers the most diverse views along the way. If you’re visiting Snowdonia National Park from April to October, you’ll also have the option to rest your legs and reach the peak via the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Tickets start from £22 for a single trip or £36 for a return. Although reaching the summit of Snowdon is certainly the crown jewel of Snowdonia, there are many other beautiful places within Snowdonia including waterfalls, lakes, picturesque villages, castles and more. Snowdon entry submitted by Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel . Browse accommodation in Snowdonia on Booking.com.

The picturesque walled market town of Conwy is 30 minutes from Snowdonia National Park, just 3 miles from Llandudno and provides easy access to the Isle of Anglesey. It’s also a worthwhile stop in its own right. One of the best Conwy is visit the majestic Conwy Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of 13th century fortified architecture. You can also walk the 1.3km long medieval town walls and enjoy the views of Conwy and its surrounds, as well as check out the smallest house in Britain . Built in the 16th century, this tiny house was in use until 1900 and can fit just four people at a time! Conwy entry submitted by Anuradha from  Country Hopping Couple .

Read next: 15 things to do in Conwy, North Wales

Glamping Llechwedd Mountain Slate Mines 

Glamping is quickly becoming one of the most popular types of travel accommodation. For a unique experience during a 7 day Wales road trip, check out   Llechwedd Mountain Slate Mines  just out of Blaenau Ffestiniog Wales. Located on the side of an old slate mine, you can soak up incredible views at any time of day. It’s the perfect place to sit on the deck and watch the time slip away. The glamping tents are spacious with their own bathrooms and small kitchens where you can cook a meal made from local produce. The beds are comfortable and can accommodate couples on a weekend, as well as family getaways. In the winter, there’s also a wood fire to light. Llechwedd Slate Mine now offers tours of the old mine both underground and up into the mountains. You can zipline above the old mine, mountain bike, hike or spend your time on the deck with a good book. Recommended by Bec from Wyld Family Travel .

For a holiday hotspot reminiscent of the Victorian era, you can’t beat Llandudno, the most prominent beach town on the North Wales coastline. Come the summer, the Grade II* listed pier is just as busy and popular as when it first opened in 1877. As well as all your usual holiday pastimes like building sandcastles on North Shore beach and guzzling quickly-melting ice creams while promenading along the pier, you can follow the Alice in Wonderland trail , treat your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Experience and soak up the scenery on the Great Orme Tramway.

Read next: 13 fun things to do in Llandudno, Wales

Isle of Anglesey

The Isle of Anglesey may be disconnected from the Welsh mainland but it’s easy to cross via Menai Suspension Bridge (by car or bus), and the Wales Coastal Path continues around the outside meaning that hikers taking on the challenge of completing it can soak up the beauty of the island. There are plenty of attractions in Anglesey such as The Copper Kingdom (once the largest copper mine in the world and now a tourist site due to its unique scenery), Beaumaris Castle, Plas Newydd House & Gardens and Dingle Nature Reserve. Pick up local delicacies like Welsh crab at Anglesey Farmers’ Market held on the third Saturday of every month. Visit as day trip from the mainland or stay overnight on the island. Browse accommodation on Anglesey here .

Holy Island

It’s only possible to visit this island (measuring just 15 square miles) via the larger island of Anglesey. To add it to your Welsh road trip itinerary, follow the North Wales Expressway or the B4545 and spend a day finding prehistoric sites and sleepy beaches like Trearddur Bay. A more energetic option is climbing 220m Holyhead Mountain. Don’t miss South Stack Lighthouse located on its own tiny island found at Holy Island ‘s most westerly point.

Read next: Things to do on Holy Island, Anglesey

For a taste of the Mediterranean during your North Wales road trip, don’t miss the village of  Portmeirion . Portmeirion was created by eccentric architect, Sir Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis, who took an abandoned village in the 1920s and filled it with historic buildings from around the UK which were due to be demolished. He combined them with his own designs to create something unique. You’ll find Greek, Art Deco, Italian and Far Eastern-inspired buildings painted in pastel shades of pink, lemon, blue and green. Portmeirion looks like a film set, so it’s no surprise it’s been used as one. Most notably it featured in cult 1960s show,  The Prisoner , and an annual convention dedicated to the series is still held there each year. Portmeirion is a great place to spend a day. Take a walk through the gardens and along the wide sandy beach, have an ice cream from Caffi’r Angel Ices or lunch in Castell Deudraeth . You can also stay overnight in the village – as well as a hotel on the waterfront, several of Portmeirion’s quirky buildings have been converted into self-catering cottages. Portmeirion is located a few miles from Porthmadog in North Wales. A day ticket to enter the town costs £8 for adults and £7 for students/over 60s or it’s free if you’re staying overnight. Portmeirion entry submitted by Lucy from On The Luce .

Read next: things to see and do in Portmeirion

Bucket list experiences in Wales

Now we’ve been through the best destinations, let’s focus on a few must-have experiences to tick off whilst visiting Wales. These include…

• Seal and dolphin watching in Cardigan Bay
• Visit Dobby’s Grave on Freshwater West Beach
• Reach the top of Mount Snowdon
• Walk the Wales coastal path
• Tick off as many Welsh castles as possible
• Eat Welsh cakes at least once
• Try glamping in a cool location
• Take an 870 mile hike along the Wales Coastal Path
• Or try the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path at 186 miles
• Spot puffins on Skomer Island.
• How many can you tick off?

Driving in Wales FAQs

Do you drive on the left or right? In Wales they drive on the left (like the rest of the UK). Are signs in Welsh? Road signs in Wales are in both Welsh and English. As you’ll notice when you travel in rural parts of Wales (and especially the north), many people speak Welsh but can generally speak English, too. Are the roads good in Wales? For the most part, yes. But expect small lanes in rural places – sometimes you’ll end up driving down tight, winding lanes. Keep your speed low and your patience high!

Driving tips for a Wales road trip

These are my tips for driving in Wales: Signs are in Welsh first – you probably already know this if you’re from the UK! Sometimes there’s no mobile signal – regardless of what network you’re with, sometimes there’s just no signal in Wales. Pre-load journeys in advance or risk getting lost! Bring cash for parking – most places in Wales don’t accept card when it comes to parking. You’ll want to have plenty of £1 coins to hand. A day’s parking will often cost around £5.

Eat these foods during your Wales road trip

If you’ve ever read my food blogs before, you’ll know how much food makes my world go round! I didn’t get time to try all the Welsh dishes I wanted but no doubt I will be back before too long. These are the best things I tried…

Lobster roll at Cafe Mor

Despite there being loads of sophisticated restaurants in Wales, I was most excited about eating lobster rolls at Cafe Mor, a food truck in a repurposed fishing boat beside Freshwater West Beach. I thought I’d read the lobster roll was £8 and gasped when I was charged £18… I guess I’ve spent too long in Asia as that’s a perfectly reasonable price for fresh lobster in the UK! It was worth it. Make sure to order the brownie flavoured with laverbread. This delicacy made with edible seaweed sounds weird but tasted delicious.

Welsh cakes

I mentioned Welsh cakes already in this blog but they can have a second slot as they’re so very tasty. There are plenty of places to try Welsh cakes in Wales but some top spots include Little Valley Bakery in Swansea and Fabulous Welsh Cakes in Cardiff.

One maybe to miss – savoury Welsh cakes!

Before understanding Welsh cake etiquette, I offended my Welsh followers by sharing this serving of Welsh cakes topped with beans and cheese. Despite the fact I was served this by Welsh locals, I would agree with my aggrieved followers that Welsh cakes taste way better with currants and sugar!

Welsh rarebit

H.E.A.V.E.N! Not to be confused with bog-standard cheese on toast, a Welsh rarebit is a blend of cheese, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika and even beer, generously layered over toast. Paired with tangy chutney, it was bliss.

WALES QUICK LINKS Guidebooks – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet Wales / L onely Planet Great Britain . Flights (international and domestic):  I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals and campers in the UK (and all around the world). For trains , use Trainine . The search feature allows you to compare prices and see live departures. For buses , I use Busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith .  Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

5 thoughts on “ 3 x Wales Road Trip Itineraries + Best Places To Visit ”

Thanks – Doing a self drive self guided tour of Wales and Scotland The info you provided was invaluable.

Glad to hear it!! Enjoy your trip 🙂

Thanks Ross, this was really useful! Doing a roadtrip this summer 🙂

Thanks Ross. It has been very useful to plan the road trip. You have given multiple options to explore and plan so that anyone can customise their Wales road trip easily. Thank you very much.

Glad you enjoyed it! It’s Rose not Ross btw

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5 Best Road Trips in Wales

• Updated: June 26, 2023

If you’re looking for a scenic road to cruise on, Wales is the answer.

You can go from driving through a narrow lane in a pleasant coastal town, to hugging hairpin lefts and right on glorious mountain ranges in just a matter of seconds…

Ready to drive Wales’ best roads?

Here’s 5 of Wales’ best road trips…

Let’s get to it 👇

5. Black Mountain Pass

Starting things off in fifth place, we’ve got Black Mountain Pass.

It’s not a long drive by any stretch of the imagination (taking just 45 minutes to go from one end to the other), but what the route loses in length, it certainly makes up for in views. 

As you climb, wriggle, dive and twist your way along the A4069, you’ll get to see the Brecon Beacons National Park at its absolute best, with incredible views of mountains, forests, rivers and lots and lots of sheep 🐑.

Here’s some things to do along Black Mountain Pass :

• Visit Carreg Cennen Castle, a 13th-century castle perched on a clifftop overlooking the River Cennen
• Walk behind a waterfall (Sgwd yr Eira), which is a part of the Brecon Beacons waterfall walk (top tip: get here super early – ideally before 10AM because the car park fills up super fast).
• Stop off at Llandeilo; a small market town located at the foot of the Black Mountains

Like we said, it’s a 45 minute route (on good traffic), but with some stops you could easily spend a day finishing the route.

Location : South Wales. Recommended Duration : Couple of hours. Distance : 15 miles / 24 km (45 minutes total driving time). Best Highlight : Brecon Beacons National Park. Route : Black Mountain Pass (hit link for full route on Google Maps).

4. The North Wales Way

Next up in fourth place we’ve got The North Wales Way, which as the name suggests, takes you along the roads of Northern Wales…

Starting on the Welsh side of the border near Chester, you’ll make your way West over to Anglesey, taking in three ginormous Welsh castles towards the end of your drive: Beaumaris, Caernarfon and Conwy Castle. 

You’ll also get to see lighthouses, beaches, some more castles (there’s a lot of castles in Wales in case you hadn’t noticed by now), a mountain zoo and you can make a couple of detours into Snowdonia towards Mt Snowdon if you like too. 

Here’s a roundup of all of the things to do on The North Wales Way:

• Visit Snowdonia National Park and climb Mt Snowdon
• See the medieval castles of Conwy, Caernarfon, and Beaumaris
• Explore the slate mines
• Stop off at the seaside town of Llandudno 
• Visit the the Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colony Bay

It’s a short-ish road trip, so 2-3 days will probably be enough, but it depends how many detours you’d like to do and how long you want to spend exploring some of the finer things the route offers.

Location : North Wales. Recommended Duration : 2-3 days. Distance : 75 miles / 120 km (5 hour total driving time).  Best Highlight : Conwy Town and castle.  Route : The North Wales Way  (hit link for full route on Google Maps). 

3. The Dragon's Spine

In third place we have the coolest name of the bunch… The Dragon’s Spine.

This route takes you all the way along the centre of Wales (hence the name) via the A470.

It’s one of the best road trips in Wales because you start the drive off in the hustle and bustle of the Welsh Capital in the South and finish up in the more chilled Conwy in the North, taking in not one, but two National Parks; Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia, giving you plenty of opportunity to kill your calves with some incredible hikes. 

You’ll also get to see beaches, forests, rivers and even ride the longest zip line in Europe if you like too, courtesy of Zip World Velocity 2 in Snowdonia. 

Here’s everything you can do along The Dragon’s Spine route:

• Visit the National Parks of Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia
• Ride the longest zip line in Europe at Zip World Velocity 2
• Walk through the medieval castles of Carreg Cennen, Conwy, and Harlech
• See reservoirs at Elan Valley
• Go white-water rafting along the River Wye
• Visit the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

We’d recommend a minimum of 4-5 days for this one, but as is the case with the others mentioned on this list, you could easily extend it out over a week or 10 days. 

Location : Central spine of Wales. Recommended Duration : 4-5 Days. Distance : 180 miles / 290km (4 hour total driving time). Best Highlight : Mt Snowdon. Route : The Dragon’s Spine  (hit link for full route on Google Maps).

2. The Best of Pembrokeshire

In second place we’ve got Pembrokeshire.

Need we say more?

There’s no specific route for this one; it’s more a case of you choosing what you want to do and making the route up for yourself, but there’s a rough one that you can use below which will help you hit most of the major sites. 

Here’s a list of some of the best things you can do in Pembrokeshire: 

• Take a visit to Ramsey & Skomer Island
• Walk round castles like Carew Castle
• Go dolphin & whale watching from the shore
• Walk along some of the UK’s finest Sand beaches
• Visit St David’s (smallest city in the UK)
• Check out the Elegug Stacks
• Visit the UK’s equivalent of Blue Lagoon (not quite as good as Iceland’s, but close)

Luckily as Pembrokeshire is such a small region, you won’t need to spend endless hours on the road driving from one destination to the next. Instead, you can chill out and get out of the car and take in some of Wales’ best sights.

Location : South West Wales. Recommended Duration : 2-3 days. Distance : Depends on your route. Best Highlight : Dolphin & whale watching around Ramsey Island. Route : Pembrokeshire  (hit link for full route on Google Maps). 

1. The Coastal Way

Coming in at number one, we’ve got The Coastal Way, which takes you along the glorious Welsh Coastline.

Starting in St Davids in the South, you’ll drive 175 miles up the coast to Aberdaron in the North, hitting dozens of beaches and popular Welsh seaside towns like Aberaeron, Aberystwyth and Barmouth.

The Coastal Way sits in top spot because it gives you the very best bits of Wales in one go, with a mix of beaches, mountains, forests and more or less anything you’d come to expect from driving in Wales…

Here’s some things to do along The Coastal Way route:

• Visit St. Davids, the smallest city in Wales
• Visit Cardigan Castle
• Walk the golden beaches at New Quay
• Ride the cliff railway in Aberystwyth
• Visit some waterfalls at Devil’s Bridge
• Visit Portmeirion, a 20th century architect-designed village inspired by Portofino

Time wise, we’d recommend 3-5 days, but again you can extend it out if you fancy spending more time on the beach getting that famous Welsh tan.

Location : West Wales. Recommended Duration : 3-5 days. Distance : 175 miles / 280 km (5 hour total driving time).  Best Highlight : Aberystwyth    Route : The Coastal Way  (hit link for full route on Google Maps). 

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ULTIMATE South Wales Road Trip: Route + Guide

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Going on a Wales road trip? You lucky thing! Use this guide to help you plan your Wales road trip itinerary and have a Welsh road trip of a lifetime ! Welsh cakes. Vast green valleys. Long, winding roads. Sheep. Sheep, and erm, more sheep (you’ll get used to the baa’ing quickly, I promise).

Visiting South Wales is one of the best things to do when visiting the UK , and definitely one of the prettiest.  Depending on distance, you can do this South Wales road trip route in as little as 2-3 days. Wales is one of the cheapest countries to visit in the UK , and an epic South Wales road trip can be done within a friendly budget!

If you want to see more of the country and head to north Wales as well, I’d recommend budgeting for at least 5-6 days. As this Wales road trip itinerary is for less than a week, it only focuses on south Wales.

This Wales road trip route can be altered and changed to suit your needs. It doesn’t require too much driving (around 6 hours spread across 3 days) and covers around 320 miles . Throughout this post, I have included handy resources and links for your road trip planning, as well as the best companies for car rentals and accommodation .

Other UK posts:

• 12 Easy Walks in the Lake District With AMAZING Views!
• Lake District Solo Travel: Ultimate Guide
• Getting Around the Lake District Without a Car FULL GUIDE
• BEST Walks from Ambleside, Lake District

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

A South Wales Road Trip: A Summary

Wales is a country in the United Kingdom which borders England. It’s the second smallest country in the UK (after Northern Ireland), and is known for its beautiful countryside views and sandy coastlines.

With six major cities, Cardiff is the capital, and it attracts thousands of tourists each year for its history, nightlife and abundance of green space and parks. In fact, it has the greenest space out of any of the UK cities. Whilst the main language in Wales is English, some locals will speak Welsh. On your road trip, you’ll notice road signs are written in both Welsh and English!

On this South Wales road trip, you will be able to experience a glimpse of what Wales has to offer. Whilst less than a week is never enough to get to know a country properly, this South Wales road trip is enough to give you a taste and leave you wanting more Welsh paradise.

Where to stay on your Wales Road Trip

Looking for the best places to stay on your Wales road trip? These are some of the best hostels and Airbnbs that I recommend.

• Barry Island: I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.
• Pembrokeshire: I recommend this apartment for solo travellers, couples and groups.
• Mumbles: I recommend this cottage for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.
• Tenby : I recommend this cottage for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.
• Hay-On-Wye: I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.
• Brecon Beacons: I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.
• Cardiff: I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers, or this apartment for couples and groups.

What areas does South Wales include?

In this itinerary, we stick to South Wales only. This is to keep driving distances short and to maximise your time enjoying and experiencing each new location. Whilst we don’t visit every South Wales town or village, we visit some of the best!

South Wales Road Trip: Route and Itinerary

⏰ Duration: 3-5 days

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿 Locations in Wales: Barry > Cardiff > Brecon Beacons > Hay-on-Wye > Mumbles > Tenby > Pembrokeshire

This South Wales road trip is perfect for first-timers in the country, as we visit a few different landscapes and Welsh attractions. Whilst most travellers will start in Cardiff, you can also add the town of Barry to your list if you are a big Gavin and Stacey fan.

NOTE: This South Wales road trip does not include Snowdonia National Park. If you want to visit Snowdonia National Park, you can plan a different North Wales route with some of the following locations included, if you have time to do so. Not sure if you want to visit Snowdonia? You can check out an epic Snowdonia guide here!

Want to start your digital nomad life?

Check out my ebook page (click here!) to see if there’s a guide that suits you. I’m here to help you leave the 9-5 and work remotely around the world! 💻 🌎

Renting a car for a Wales road trip

If you can, take a car to get around Wales. If you only have a short amount of time, you don’t want to be spending hours waiting for public transport.  Don’t have a car? We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world. Be sure to pre-book your car rental before arriving in the country to avoid disappointment!

➡  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

Driving in Wales Tips

• Drivers from non-EU countries need a valid International Driving permit. and you must have at least 3rd-party insurance on your vehicle.
• Wales drives on the left-hand side. 
• If you’re not familiar with driving in the UK, be sure to check out some general road rules before you set off.
• Stay safe whilst following GPS by using a phone holder for your car. The phone holder will ensure you can follow directions hands-free.
• Don’t be alarmed when you see all of the road signs are in Welsh! Yes, that’s not English! Usually, the English words are underneath, but if in doubt, use Google Maps!
• Cash is still used for parking in Wales. We found a lot of the time we couldn’t pay with our card in car parks. Make sure you have pound coins (Welsh currency is GBP (Sterling).
• Your signal may dip in and out in the Welsh countryside. I recommend getting an eSIM (if you’re from overseas) to get mobile data across the country.
• Most drivers in the UK are sensible and follow the rules. Seatbelts are mandatory and you will be stopped and fined for not using one. Traffic lights are followed religiously.

➡  Need to hire a car in Wales?   We rent our cars in the UK from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world! 🚗  LOOK AT CAR HIRE PRICES IN THE UK NOW!

When’s the best time of year for a Wales road trip?

Knowing when to take your Wales road trip is really down to what kind of weather you want. Welsh weather is similar to the rest of the UK, with mild summers and cold winters.

☀️ If you’re interested in sunbathing on the beach and wearing a bikini, head to Wales during the summer months of June-August. These are generally Wales’ hottest months, but there’s no guarantee. Temperatures in these months can still drop and of course, we will still have some rain (it is the UK!)

🍂 Autumn temperatures in Wales fall between September-early November. If you’re looking for those aesthetic autumnal colours, your best bet is to take a Wales road trip during these months. 

🌸 Spring in Wales usually begins in late March and is until May. Temperatures are beginning to rise and there is less rain than in the winter months. Pink blossom trees are blooming and the fields are coated in daffodils. 

❄️ If you’re a winter baby and fancy wrapping up warm in your scarf and gloves, head to Wales during November-February. It may not get as cold as Finland , but the cold sea air and the low temperatures still require you to add lots of layers!

Best South Wales road trip destinations

1) barry island.

Head to Barry Island first on your south Wales road trip route for a traditional English seaside town experience. Pick up some famous Barry fish and chips, enjoy some classic arcade games and build sandcastles on the beach.

Backpacker budget activities in Barry Island:

• Eat fish and chips along the coast
• Play arcade games
• Take a photo in the arches, where Gavin and Stacey was filmed
• Walk around the fairground
• Buy an ice cream
• Sit on the beach walls and enjoy the views

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Barry Island? I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales and is worth planning into your Wales itinerary. Have a walk around Cardiff Bay or Cardiff Castle, and head to the high street in the evening for the nightlife.

If you fancy having a drink, book some accommodation for the night or park up your van somewhere quiet. Did you know it’s possible to have a day trip from London to Cardiff?! Take a look at this epic Cardiff to London itinerary!

Budget backpacker activities in Cardiff:

• Visit Cardiff Castle, a 2000 year old historical site
• Explore the Principality Stadium , which is home to the Welsh national rugby team. Go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium and find out all there is to know about Welsh rugby.
• Visit Bute Park located in the heart of Cardiff. Have a picnic, take a walk or read your book in the pretty gardens.
• Drink in one of Cardiff’s cheap bars and clubs
• Go window shopping or actual shopping at Cardiff Market

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Cardiff? I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers, or this apartment for couples and groups.

3) The Brecon Beacons National Park

One of the most well-known areas and one of my favourite place in Wales is the Brecon Beacons National Park. If you’re looking for scenic hikes, long walks and iconic skylines, you’ll want to plan in a day or two for the Brecon Beacons.

Free and budget activities in the Brecon Beacons:

• Hiking the 886m Pen Y Fan , which is a well-known SAS training ground that has views across south and mid-Wales.
• Doing the beautiful Four Waterfalls walk , a circular woodland walk that takes a couple of hours
• Stop off at villages like Brecon and Crickhowell for a coffee and a slice of cake
• Go to the Visitor’s Centre to learn more about the local area
• Take a wild swim
• Walk around the acres of national park and take in the views
• Window shop in the small, independently owned stores

➡ Need somewhere to stay in the Brecon Beacons? I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers, or this apartment for couples and groups.

4) Hay-on-Wye

In the North of the Beacons national park, you’ll find a small village called Hay-On-Wye, known as the “Town of Books”. It’s one of the prettiest villages in the south of Wales and is a fun stop-off on your road trip if you’re into literature! With over twenty bookstores and book-themed cafes, you can spend the day losing yourself in your imagination.

Free and budget activities in Hay-On-Wye:

• Visit Hay Castle, a 13th-century building on the banks of the River Wye.
• Browse the town’s independent shops
• Go for a walk or bike ride in the surrounding countryside – the countryside around Hay-on-Wye is stunning!
• Sample some local food and drink in some of Hay-on-Wye’s best locally owned restaurants and bars.

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Hay-On-Wye? I recommend this hostel for solo backpackers, or this apartment for couples and groups.

The next leg will be the drive to start your Pembrokeshire road trip. En route, stop off at Mumbles, a quaint seaside town with colourful shops and cafes. There’s also a lighthouse and pier for you to enjoy on the beach!

Mumbles has some delicious fish and chip stalls along the seafront, as well as well-known ice cream stands and the atmosphere of a traditional British seaside. Treat yourself to a chippy lunch for under £5 ($6) and look out onto Swansea Bay (and spend half of your time making sure the seagulls don’t eat your chips).

Free and budget activities in Mumbles:

• Stroll along the pier and take photos of the Oystermouth Lighthouse
• Sample the local ice cream – Joe’s Ice Cream Parlour has over 30 flavours!
• Visit Swansea Bay, just a short drive from Mumbles where you can swim in the sea and sunbathe on the beach!

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Mumbles? I recommend this cottage for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.

Tenby is often referred to as one of Wales’ best seaside towns. Home of Tenby Harbour, you can try fishing, take a boat trip or just relax and sunbathe on the sandy Tenby beach. Head beyond the beach to the pastel-coloured houses for an Insta-worthy photoshoot, or rent a traditional English deck chair to sit and admire the coastline.

You can base yourself here to explore more of Pembrokeshire or continue on other parts of the national park, as detailed in the next section of this post.

Free and budget activities in Tenby:

• Eat fish and chips and ice cream along the coastline like
• Swim in the sea or sunbathe on the beach
• Take photos with the colourful beach houses
• Enjoy a pint at a local pub

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Tenby? I recommend this cottage for solo backpackers or this apartment for couples and groups.

7) Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

The final part of this Wales road trip is for you to explore more of Pembrokeshire. Pembrokeshire National Park is made up of 240 square miles of coast, wildlife and history. If you enjoy the outdoors, you can find something new to discover around every corner, with the famous Coastal walk, or a visit to Carew Castle.

“From relaxing strolls and sunset spotting, to high-octane hobbies like surfing and coasteering, you can find your happy place on the Pembrokeshire Coast.” – Pembrokeshire Coast website

Popular Pembrokeshire Coast locations include Saundersfoot, Manorbier Beach, Church Door Cove, and Barafundle Bay. If you have time to spare, I’d recommend staying a few extra days in Pembrokeshire to really explore the area and enjoy it!

Free and budget activities in Pembrokeshire:

• Walk part of the 186-mile Coastal Path with views of the sea and surrounding cliffs
• Visit St David’s Cathedral, which is named after Wales’ patron saint. Climb to the top of the bell tower for the best views!
• Take a surfing lesson
• Spot wildlife from the cliffs. You may even see a dolphin or two!

➡ Need somewhere to stay in Pembrokeshire? I recommend this apartment for solo travellers, couples and groups.

Bucket list experiences in Wales

When on your South Wales road trip, try to plan in as many bucket list experiences as possible! Here are some of the best actvities in Wales that you can do whilst on your road trip.

☀️ Explore the stunning Welsh coastline, with its sandy beaches, rocky cliffs and quaint towns.

🗻Visit Snowdonia National Park and hike to the top of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.

🌃 Discover the charming city of Cardiff, with its medieval castle, lively bars and world-class shopping.

🏰 Journey through Wales’s rich history at one of its many museums and historic sites.

🌳 Experience the natural beauty of Wales, from its rugged mountains to its pristine lakes.

🐬 Spot dolphins at Cardigan Bay.

🐦 Spot Puffins on Skomer Island (they are adorable)

With so much to see and do, Wales is the perfect destination for an unforgettable UK road trip!

A Wales Road Trip: FAQs

1) how many days should i spend in wales.

If you’re planning on seeing the whole of Wales, I recommend 5-7 days. However, if you’re only focusing on either north or south Wales, 3-5 days is sufficient.

2) How many miles long is Wales?

The entire country stretches about 130 miles (210km) north to south, and 90 miles (145km) east-west.  So, you could easily drive from one end of Wales to the other in a day. Of course, if you want to really see everything that Wales has to offer, you’ll need to take your time and explore at your own pace. But, even if you only have a few days to spare, or even 1 day in Wales, it’s still worth a visit.

3) How long does it take to drive from one end of Wales to the other?

Four hours (without stopping, and without being stuck behind a tractor). There isn’t a motorway connecting North and South Wales, but you can drive through the middle along the A470 which should take about 4 hours. 

4) Is North or South Wales prettier?

North and South Wales offer different types of scenery, both beautiful in their own right. If you prefer dramatic mountain views, North Wales may be better suited for landscapes of Snowdonia and adventurous activities.

But if you prefer epic coastlines and sandy beaches, South Wales may be prettier to you, as Pembrokeshire has some of the most beautiful coastlines in the whole of the UK.

5) How can I spend 3 days in Wales?

If you only have 3 days to spare for a Wales road trip, I recommend:

• Visiting Cardiff, the capital city
• Hiring a car and driving through some of Wales’ small villages
• Taking a walk in the Brecon Beacons National Park
• Heading to Pembrokeshire to see the epic coastlines

6) Is Wales cheaper than England?

Yes. It’s much cheaper to backpack and travel to Wales than it is in England! In fact, the cost of living in Wales is 15% cheaper than in England. Whilst travelling Wales, the cost of food, transport, accommodation and activities are cheaper in Wales than they are in England, making it the perfect budget backpacker destination!

7) What is the prettiest place in Wales?

It’s hard to narrow down the prettiest place in Wales, so here are some of the most beautiful and highly rated:

• Tenby, Pembrokeshire
• Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
• Brecon Beacons
• Snowdonia National Park
• Caerphilly town

8) What should I pack for a Wales road trip?

So, what should you pack for your Wales road trip? Here are a few things that you might not have thought of:

• A lightweight  waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots  (that won’t slip)
• An  umbrella
• A phone holder to be hands-free in the car
• A  waterproof day bag
• A  waterproof phone case
• A  portable charger
• Lots of layers
• A GoPro  for waterproof camera footage
• A  waterproof backpack cover
• A chilly bottle  to keep your water at a drinkable temperature
• A  Dry Robe
• As well as using bug  spray , we have midge  repellent wristbands .

9)  Do I need a car to visit Wales?

If you’re visiting Wales and are short on time, I strongly recommend hiring a car. If you’re looking to hire a car in Wales, we rent our cars from  this company . They’re reliable, cheap and have car rentals all over the world!  ➡  You can check out the  prices for car hire  in the UK now!

8)  Do I need a SIM card to visit Wales? 

If you’re not from the UK, it’s worth  downloading an eSIM  on your phone to ensure you can use it for directions and avoid roaming charges as soon as you arrive. 

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing! Plus, there are  eSIMs  available for the entire continent of Europe, so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here!

A South Wales Road Trip: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about planning a South Wales road trip.  When you’re planning a trip to Wales, make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at  first-time backpackers on a budget.   I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend  (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Wales content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

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MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Hello Jennie…!! Loved your blog…!! Amazing little details & beautiful pictures, got me hooked right away!! My partner & I are looking to travel to Wales in the Middle of June & intend to do a Road Trip for 5 Nights starting & ending in Cardiff. We also wish to stay in different places each night & cover Snowdonia, Pembrokeshire & any other awesome places in between.

Can you please help out in planning the trip with the routes, stops & must visit places in the road trip?

Will be extremely grateful for your advice..!!

PS: Already done & dusted an epic 10 day road trip of Scotland & England starting in Glasgow & ending in London in 2017.. so have a fair idea of driving in the UK..

Thanks, Saurabh Fellow Travel Junkie from India

Wow, I really appreciate your comment Saurabh! I’m so glad you have found it enjoyable to read and helpful. Yes of course I can help you, if you contact me on [email protected] , we can discuss it a bit further 🙂

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The Wonder of Wales: The Ultimate Welsh Road Trip

Welcome to Wales, a land of rugged coastlines, majestic mountains, and picturesque countryside. A road trip through Wales is the perfect way to explore this enchanting country, with its rich history, ancient castles, and vibrant culture.

Of the 10 million tourists visiting Wales each year, only 1 million are from outside the United Kingdom. So, this is still a relatively undiscovered destination for international travelers.

I hope you feel inspired to discover the wonders of Wales, one mile at a time!

How long would it take to drive around Wales?

Most Welsh road trip itineraries offer 7-day Wales road trip itineraries, however, you are going to struggle. While my itinerary below is 38 days long, I recommend at least 14 days to do your Wales road trip.

How many days do you need to visit Wales?

If you are attempting to cover all of Wales you are going to need more than 14 days. But given the below Welsh road trip itinerary you could curate your week-long journey.

What is the most scenic drive in Wales?

One of the most scenic drives in Wales is the Abergwesyn Pass, which runs from Tregaron to Llanwrtyd Wells. We love this drive as it features a series of hairpin turns named the ‘Devil’s Staircase’.

Is it easy to drive around Wales?

We are not UK citizens, but Wales is as easy as any Western country. If you are flying into Heathrow or Gatwick, pick up a rental car , or even a Goboony campervan, and drive from London to Wales. Starting your Wales road trip itinerary along the M4 motorway will take less than half a day.

Where did we start?

The kids and I were attending the world’s largest travel expo, World Travel Market, on my 3 rd or 4 th trip to the UK.

As I was looking at a map of the UK I realized that I hadn’t seen a lot of what the UK had to offer, other than London.

Our last road trip had been in Bulgaria more than 5 months ago and I decided it was time the kids and I headed back out on the open road. I love the freedom of a road trip with kids.

So where else to go than the untouched countryside of Wales? The land with one of the oldest active languages in the world. A land of history and legend. A land of immense natural beauty and, as we discovered, so much more…

If you’re thinking about a Welsh road trip in Great Britain, follow our driving adventure around Wales and I’m sure you’ll be inspired. We had the luxury of 6 weeks in total, but this itinerary could be sped up if you had less time to play with.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

London to Pembrokshire (South Wales)

Accommodation: Asheston Eco Barns (check hotel prices here) Distance: 417 km Toll: €6.90

We left East London about 1pm. London was a nightmare and took more than an hour to move out of. Once we hit the M4 it was smooth sailing all the way to South Wales.

The sun set early, before 5 pm, so the last few hours seemed so late at night, especially with the howling wind and rain.

We didn’t see much as we pulled into our new home for the next few nights, however with a full moon out what we did see was an absolute winner.

Pembrokeshire, St Davids, Whitesands (South Wales)

Accommodation: Asheston Eco Barns (check hotel prices here) Distance: 34 km

After the kids and I enjoyed a sleep in we took a drive around south Wales, coming across the most heavenly cathedral I’ve ever seen. It was a dark, overcast day when the heavens opened for a single ray of light just to shine on the church and the church alone.

After visiting St David’s Cathedral we headed along the Coastal Way to Whitesands Beach in South West Wales. November is cold in the UK so it was only a quick walk on the shores before heading to a nearby café for a round of steaming hot chocolate.

We had heard good things about Sloop Inn in Porthgain, a tiny town with just 38 permanent residents. And while the food was good, I couldn’t identify why it was raved about given so many amazing choices in the area.

Pembrokshire to Haverfordwest (South Wales)

Accommodation: Wolfscastle County Hotel  (check hotel prices here) Distance: 9.9 km

This morning I decided to let the kids have some more fun, before some more adult sight seeing. So we headed to a nearby indoor playground, Merlin’s Magic Indoor Playground. While the kids played I used the free WIFI for some much needed work.

About 3.5 hours later they were ready to leave and we made our way to Wolf’s Castle.

Haverfordwest (South Wales)

Accommodation: Wolfscastle Country Hotel (check hotel prices here) Distance: 65 km

We had the most amazing breakfast at Wolfcastle before heading off to another castle, Pembroke Castle. The home of Henry Tudor before he became king! It was a beauty of a castle and featured a giant map of Wales. The kids enjoyed running between the places we were attending on our Wales road trip.

At the Wolfscastle Country Hotel that night the Head Chef, a Masterchef Professional (UK) winner, treated us to one of the most special dinners I’ve ever had the pleasure of eating.

Cardiff (South Wales)

Accommodation: Ibis Cardiff ( check prices ) Distance: 166 km

Saying goodbye to Wolfcastle was sad, but there was so much more of Wales to see. We left rural south Wales for the hustle and bustle of Cardiff. We did a quick drive through Swansea on the way.

While in the city we were looking for a central location for a pit stop and the Ibis proved to be just the thing.

It was the perfect family hotel, with their triple room.

Accommodation: Ibis Cardiff ( check prices ) Distance: 171 km

Today we spent touring Cardiff. A long walk in the harbor, as well as the offer of a local boatman, The Open Boat, to go on a 20-minute boat tour of Cardiff Bay.

My kids loved playing on the waterfront playground, while I considered if we had time to visit the famous Dr Who Experience. I will be back, Cardiff!

Llanwrda (Mid Wales)

Accommodation: Sykes Cottages (Myrtle Hill) ( check Llanwrda prices ) Distance: 120 km

Here’s where you can save yourself a week, because we decided we wanted to just enjoy Wales and ended up leaving south Wales, driving 1.5 hours north from Cardiff to Llanwrda via the Brecon Beacons National Park. Brecon Beacon is a must-stop.

Organise a Brecon Beacons National Park tour.

Once we arrive at Sykes Cottage we check in for a week relaxing and working before continuing our Wales road trip itinerary.

Caernarfon (North Wales)

Accommodation: Travelodge Caernarfon Hotel ( check hotel prices ) Distance: 188 km

Caernarfon became a real favourite for us, as we travelled from the north Wales road trip from Llanwrda to Caernarfon. We checked into the Travelodge located on Victoria Dock in the centre of town. Great location and good value family rooms.

Accommodation: Travelodge Caernarfon Hotel ( check hotel prices ) Distance: 273 km

Today we were on a mission to visit Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch. Yes, you read that right. I dare you to pronounce it.

With 58 characters, it is the longest place name in Europe and the second longest official one-word place name in the world. There is not much to do there, but it was fun to visit and should be part of any Wales road trip.

After our visit to “L town” I took the kids to a unique indoor playground right near our hotel, Caernarfon’s   Fun Factory (Yr Hwylfan), which is located inside a former church.

Accommodation: Travelodge Caernarfon Hotel ( check hotel prices ) Distance: 92 km

The kids and I were enjoying the Travelodge so much we decided to stay another night. Today we headed to the Bodnant Garden Food Fair for local Christmas markets and tasty Welsh food. On the way back we stopped at Bridge Restaurant for a Sunday roast lunch.

We contemplated stoping by Caernarfon Castle, but to be honest were a little castled out!

Another of my favourite places in north Wales was Betws-y-coed. We stopped here for a walk around the cute and quaint town.

Tip: Stop near Capel Curig to capture the sunset!

Chester (England)

Accommodation: Travelodge Chester Northop Hall Hotel ( check hotel prices ) Distance: 111 km

We wanted to head as far north as Liverpool so today we started making our way through north Wales, with a quick overnight stop in Chester. The kids loved the little playground in Llanberis along the exceptionally scenic lake.

You’ll find yourself stopping regularly for all the beautiful Welsh countryside photos.

We did a quick shop in Wrexham before pulling off the highway for another cheap Travelodge stay.

Liverpool (England)

Accommodation: Ibis Liverpool Hotel ( check prices ) Distance: 33 km

Now I know Liverpool is not in Wales, but the hometown of The Beatles really was just a hop-skip-and-a-jump away from north Wales, so I decided to make a quick detour.

The Ibis Liverpool Hotel is in a prime spot on the harbour and within easy walking distance to the centre of town. I was able to leave my rental car in the hotel parking lot and the kids and I made our way around on foot in this beautiful city.

For dinner we explored Liverpool One, the city’s modern pedestrian-only outdoor mall. Most restaurants were full so we picked up takeaway before checking out the cute Christmas markets and exhibits.

Liverpool (England)

Accommodation: Ibis Liverpool Hotel ( check prices ) Distance: 0 km

I knew the kids were going to love our visit to the Ice Festival today. They got to meet Santa, do some ice-skating and even ride the ice slide a few times, until we were finally so cold that we retreated to the Central Library.

Such a beautiful library that we ended up spending a few hours reading in the warmth of the vast children’s room.

After a buffet lunch we rolled back to the hotel and caught up on much-needed sleep. Consider doing a Liverpool tour.

Gwynedd (North Wales)

Accommodation: Abergwynant Farm Holiday Cottages ( check hotel prices in area ) Distance: 119 km

Finally it was time to head back on the north wales way and continue our Welsh road trip. our ultimate destination was Machynlleth, but I decided to break the journey up along the way. I made a number of B&B stops, however most were shut for the season.

It was quite a coincidence that I stumbled on Abergwynant Farm Holiday Cottages in north Wales. It was a sweet, spacious cottage, nestled in the quiet countryside.

I also had a quick stop at Llyn Tegid Lake for photos.

Day 22 – 31

Machynlleth (mid wales).

Accommodation: Quality Cottages ( Check Prices in Pandy Bach ) Distance: 56 km

Before we departed the area we took a quick drive through the pretty town of Dolgellau. From there we headed to Barmouth, a lovely beachside town. With a lot of kilometres under our belts from recent weeks we were really looking forward to a long stay at our cottage in Machynlleth found on Quality Cottages.

And as predicted it was heaven. And one of the best places I’ve ever spent my birthday.

During our week in Machynlleth we visited surrounding areas –

Devil’s Bridge  – Gorgeous hike through the woods to see waterfalls and the infamous Devil’s Bridge.

Aberystwyth  – Beautiful town on the seaside with a oceanfront playground, castle ruins and yummy donuts (on the pier).

Barmouth  – We returned to this beachside town for a hike along the “Panorama Walk”, overlooking the surrounding countryside.

Harlech Castle  – An ancient, yet well-preserved, fortress with a rich history.

Bounce Below – The highlight of our entire Wales road trip itinerary was found at Llechwedd Slate Caverns in northern Wales. Do not miss it!

Day 31 – 32

Tamworth (england).

Accommodation: Drayton Manor Hotel ( check prices here ) Distance: 174 km

After over a week in our cottage it was time to finish our Wales road trip and head back to England. My daughter’s 6 th  birthday was upon us so as a special surprise we decided to head to Drayton Manor for a day of ThomasLand fun. On top of that we were upgraded at Drayton Manor Hotel to the Presidential Suite – woohoo!

And on top of that Mia received a surprise mini birthday cake at Grill Inn (opposite Drayton Manor Hotel), complete with a hearty “happy birthday” sung by the staff.

Day 32 – 33

Stratford-upon-avon & oxford (england).

Accommodation: Travelodge Oxford Peartree ( check Oxford prices ) Distance: 125 km

After Drayton Manor, Brighton was next on the list, with a quick visit to Stratford-upon-Avon and Oxford.

As the birthplace of Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon holds a unique place in literature and history but is also a beautiful town in it’s own right. Plus it happens to be the home of my grandfather, so I hold it close to my heart.

Oxford, on the other hand, was relatively expensive and uninspiring, with a room off the highway at the local Travelodge cost nearly triple the amount as in Caernarfon. It was disappointing.

Day 34 – 36

Brighton (england).

Accommodation: Travelling family Distance: 178 km

From Oxford we made our way to Brighton – London’s summer playground. I make a lot of friends online and one particular family offered to host us for the next two nights. We spent our time in Brighton socialising and playing on Brighton Pier.

London (England)

Accommodation:  GlobalHelpSwap , London Distance: 81 km

Accommodation: Central London Apartments (Check London prices here) Distance: 12.5 km

It was nice to move into something a bit more roomy and this central London apartment was fabulous. Just a 10-minute walk from Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. It was the perfect base to explore London with kids.

After relishing the dreamy countryside of Wales during our Wonders of Wales road trip, it was time to return our car at London City Airport and bid adieu to this enchanting country-within-a-country.

The experience was simply intoxicating, leaving no doubt that it is one of the most deliciously picturesque places to be found. In fact, I would readily go back for another visit in a heartbeat. To see Snowdonia National Park , World Heritage site like Conwy Castle or Beaumaris Castle, and of course the Dr Who Experience.

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The Wales Way

The wales way. unforgettable , iconic driving routes..

JUNE, ’23

St davids and the coastal way.

The Wales Way -Coastal Way starts or finishes at St Davids. Start your journey

“ Wow, just wow. I never knew all this was on our doorstep!”

This is the type of comment we have seen no end of times on Instagram and Facebook. People seem genuinely surprised at how beautiful and diverse Wales is. Of course to those of us that live here……..

We are lucky enough to have lived here for almost 20 years, and we are still finding hidden gems as we explore the rugged coastlines, quaint villages, ever-changing rivers and majestic mountains.

The Coastal Way

The Coastal Way travels the west coast around Cardigan Bay, a 180-mile (290km) road trip between the sea and mountains. Why not start planning your Wales Way adventure today…

The Cambrian Way

  Stretching over approximately 185 miles (300 kilometres), from Cardiff to Conwy. This road trip takes you through some of the most awe-inspiring regions of the country…

North Wales Way

This stunning road trip is a breathtaking route that stretches from the town of Mold to the coastal town of Holyhead, covering a distance of approximately 120 miles. …

What are the Wales Way Routes?

The wales way are a series of driving routes around wales, exploring its culture, mountains, rivers and coastline., exploring this magnificent country: a journey of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Welcome to an extraordinary adventure through the captivating landscapes and rich heritage of this tiny nation. Through our guides, we invite you to join us on an immersive exploration of these iconic routes that unveils the country’s awe-inspiring natural wonders and diverse cultural treasures. Prepare to be enchanted by the dramatic coastlines, majestic mountains, charming towns, and ancient castles that await along this remarkable trail. READ MORE

June, ’23

Conwy castle: the cambrian way.

Conwy Castle on the Cambrian Way Start or finish point of this stunning route through the Heart of Wales

The Wales Way, the Welsh NC500?

There are stunning beaches, quaint villages, ancient castles, ever-changing rivers and mountain passes, so yes, in some ways it is. The Wales Way consist of three separate diving routes; The Coastal Way, The Cambrian Way and The North Wales Way. Of course, there is an option to drive a circular route, clockwise or anti-clockwise, just like the North Coast 500, but we will come to that later.

And although sometimes the route is sparsely populated, it’s never difficult to find a garage, shop, campsite or guest house.

The Wales Way Blog

Check out our latest blog posts and wanderings, why not take a look to see what we have been up to.

We are usually off exploring somewhere. Pop over to the blog and you will find a series of Blog posts about the highlights, towns, villages, beaches and numerous other places that we find on our tips around Wales

Find The BLOG HERE

About us and how we got here..

Hi. We are a pair of 50-somethings that quit the Ratrace and moved to Carmarthenshire almost 20 years ago. In that time we have travelled abroad, and home, exploring and looking for adventure.

To find out about us and how we ended up in the land of Castles see About Us.

Carl & Mel

The 5 most phenomenal road trips in Wales

Oct 5, 2021 • 5 min read

A winding country road at sunset near Machynlleth in Powys in Wales © chrisatpps / Shutterstock

Wales is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful drives. Beyond the more densely populated south (where you’ll find the Wales' only highway), narrow, undulating lanes criss-cross the land, meaning travel can be slow – but there’s no need to rush when your surroundings consist of sky-skimming mountains, deep green valleys and swaths of pristine coastline.

Fasten your seatbelts. Here are the best road trips to take in Wales .

The Coastal Way

Best road trip for sea views and beaches.

Start – Aberdaron; End – St Davids; Distance – approx 180 miles

This route covers the entire length of Cardigan Bay – the sweeping curve of Irish Sea that looks like it’s taken a huge bite out of the Welsh west coast – and spoils travelers with its secluded beaches and charming seaside towns.

Scour the sand for fossils, shells and rockpool-dwelling crabs at Aberdaron Beach, on the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula , and then hit the road, heading east along winding coastal lanes toward Porthmadog. Here you can hop on a heritage steam train, a relic of the region’s mining history, to give Snowdonia’s skyline your undivided attention.

Once you’re back in the driver’s seat, myriad potential pitstops await as you swerve south including the village of Portmeirion , with its ornate, Italian-inspired facades; Harlech’s expansive beach overlooked by a Unesco-listed castle; and the buzzy student town of Aberystwyth, a fine spot to stay overnight.

The next day, take an early morning dip at Mwnt Beach, a sheltered bay known for its decent dolphin spotting, before searching for hidden coves and cliff-top selfie spots in Pembrokeshire . The county’s entire coastline is a designated – and dazzling – national park.

The Cambrian Way

Best road trip for mountain scenery.

Start – Cardiff; End – Conwy; Distance – approx 185 miles

The human eye is said to be able to perceive more shades of green than any other color. The Cambrian Way, which cuts north to south through the verdant heart of Wales, is a fantastic place to test that theory, thanks to its patchwork fields, dense forests and rolling, sheep-dotted hills.

Primarily following the A470, the route becomes increasingly wild and rugged as it weaves north from the capital city of Cardiff through the Brecon Beacons and into Powys . Spend the night in Rhayader, gateway to the stargazer’s paradise of Elan Valley, but don’t stay up too late – you’ll need plenty of energy for the next day’s adventures, which could include hiking up Pumlumon Fawr (the highest point in the Cambrian Mountains at 2467ft), or mountain biking along the trails at Coed Y Brenin Forest in Snowdonia National Park .

Continuing north, you’ll know you’re near Blaenau Ffestiniog when you realize the roadside slopes are in fact heaving piles of slate. The town and surrounding region were granted World Heritage status in 2021 to recognize its mining legacy. Tour nearby Llechwedd Mine to learn more. Before you reach the north coast, stop for a surf lesson at Adventure Parc Snowdonia , or dig into some delicious local produce at Bodnant Welsh Food (book ahead for a guaranteed table).

The North Wales Way

Best road trip for castles and culture.

Start – Mold; End – Holyhead; Distance – approx 75 miles

Spanning Wales’ short but scenic north coast, this route offers road trippers a chance to encounter Welsh history, language and culture in a spectacular setting.

Head west through the uncrowded Clwydian Hills – stopping to summit Moel Famau (1820ft) on the way for epic views of Snowdonia and the North Wales Coast – until you reach Ruthin, a little town brimming with history (exemplified by its restored castle, century-spanning museum and Victorian Ruthin Gaol ).

Veer north to explore the nostalgia-inducing seaside resort towns of Colwyn Bay and Llandudno – lingering for a day or two if the weather’s on your side – before crossing the River Conwy to wander its namesake market town and castle . As you head west towards Bangor, hook a left into Snowdonia National Park to walk to Aber Falls, or treat yourself to a warming Welsh whisky at Aber Falls Distillery .

Save time for a detour to Caernarfon Castle before making your way across Menai Bridge to set tire to tarmac on the Isle of Anglesey . Highlights include the laid-back town of Beaumaris, pine-trimmed Newborough Beach and bird spotter’s paradise South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve .

Border Country

Best road trip for crowd-free escapes.

Start – Chepstow; End – Wrexham; Distance – approx 171 miles 

Tracing the dotted line that separates England and Wales on a map, this border-hugging route will take you to some of Wales’ most underrated sites – slowly, if you stick to the narrow back roads.

Starting in the border town of Chepstow in Southeast Wales , wend your way northward through the lush Wye Valley, stopping to admire the roofless ruins of Tintern Abbey and lesser-known castles Skenfrith and Grosmont, until you reach Hay-on-Wye for a spot of second-hand book shopping. This is also a fine spot to stretch your legs along Offa’s Dyke Path before driving on to explore the fabulous gardens at Welshpool’s Powis Castle .

Don’t miss the chance to walk across Unesco-listed Pontcysyllte Aqueduct near Llangollen – at 125ft high, it’s the highest canal aqueduct ever built. Finish up in Wrexham, where you can climb the tower of the largest medieval church in Wales and explore Erddig , a large stately home on the outskirts of town.

South Wales Circuit

Best road trip for a bit of everything.

Start – Cardiff; End – Chepstow; Distance – approx 333 miles

This lengthy loop encapsulates everything that makes Wales wonderful, from culture-packed cities and chocolate-box towns to gawp-worthy beaches and mountains galore.

Spend a day or two restaurant hopping in Cardiff and Swansea before turning your attention to some of Wales’ best beaches, found around the Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park . Stop over in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids ; the surrounding coastline is prime walking territory, tempting travelers with secret coves, rugged cliff tops and a sparkling blue lagoon.

Head northeast to Cardigan and then make a beeline for inland treasures including Brecon Beacons National Park , where you can summit South Wales’ highest mountain, Pen y Fan ; foodie town Abergavenny; and the crumbled ruins of Tintern Abbey near Chepstow.

You might also like: 10 unmissable places to visit in Wales Introducing Wales’ epic national parks The best time to visit Wales for food, hiking or bog snorkeling

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Wales Road Trip Itinerary & 56 Places To Stop On Your Wales Road Trip!

Categories Itinerary , U.K , Wales

A Wales Road Trip is the best way to explore Wales because although there is a train line within the country and there are buses too, to get to the top places to visit in Wales you need a car, there’s no doubt about that!

Whether you’re planning a short Wales road trip for a few days , perhaps a London to Wales Road Trip, or you have longer to explore Wales,, I have written this post to give you lots of ideas for where to visit in Wales which will help you plan your Wales road trip itinerary or staycation in Wales !

I don’t recommend visiting ALL of these places in Wales in one trip because I have given you so many places, but you can use the below map of Wales and the way I have categorised the places into areas to help plan your Wales travel itinerary depending on how much time you have and what you want to see in Wales!

When it comes to planning your Wales itinerary , the best thing about doing a Wales road trip is that you can see a lot in just one day , especially in Snowdonia and Pembrokeshire!

I’ve spent nearly all my life back and forth between England and Wales and now I live in Cardiff so I can’t wait to share these gems in Wales with you!

Wales Road Trip

CAR HIRE IN WALES

If you’re reading this post with future dreams of doing a Wales road trip but don’t have a car, visit Rentalcars to get a quote. They search all of the top rental companies like Budget and Hertz to get you the best price!

Search car rental prices for Wales here!

Wales Road Trip Map

Use this Wales road trip map to see all of the places I have detailed in this post easily to plan where to visit on your Welsh road trip:

Wales Road Trip Itinerary

In this blog post, I have focused on the best places to visit in Wales and the best places to stop in as you drive through Wales so you can plan your own road trip itinerary based on how long you have, what your interests are and what time of year it is.

However for some guidance, here are some Wales Road Trip itineraries I have put together:

3 Day Wales Road Trip Itinerary!

1 Week Wales Road Trip Itinerary!

1 Week South Wales Road Trip Itinerary!

2 Day North Wales Road Trip Itinerary!

To create your own, perfect Wales road trip itinerary I suggest the following:

If you have limited time, my advice for your itinerary for Wales is to stick to a certain area and explore it well.

For example, if you have 3 days in Wales , don’t try to visit North AND South Wales as you will miss so much in both places and spend most of your days driving between them.

Wales is a relatively small country and the South Coast is easy to travel along using the M4 and A roads, however, once you are off these roads, the roads do become very small and windy and more time is needed to drive along them so keep this in mind when planning how long it takes to drive around Wales!

When planning your Wales road trip itinerary, I recommend that you visit up to 4 places in a similar area in one day and base yourself in a location for 1-3 nights to explore the local area and beyond to get the most out of your Wales road trip!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Best Time to Road Trip Around Wales

Like the rest of the UK, the weather in Wales can change a lot each day and it can change dramatically throughout the year!

Generally, there’s never a bad time to visit Wales as long as you are prepared for the weather.

However, from my experience living in Wales, I say that late Spring and early Autumn is the best time for a Wales Road Trip though as the weather is more pleasant – not too hot, not too cold, and you miss the summer traffic and crowds.

For more information on the weather in Wales, each month see this detailed post I wrote – the best time to visit Wales !

Where to Stay on a Wales Road Trip

There is so much accommodation on offer in Wales for all budgets and preferences.

In the summer you will find endless campsites in Wales, especially along the coast, especially campsites in Tenby . There are cool options for glamping in Wales so you can stay in shepherds’ huts, cabins, yurts, etc.

There are many B&B’s, cottages to rent on Airbnb, private rooms to book on Airbnb, and many well-known chain hotels on the likes of booking.com .

Places to Visit on a Wales Road Trip:

Now, let’s get into places to stop on your Wales road trip and the best places to add to your Wales road trip itinerary.

I’ve started with places in South Wales first and then I go into places in North Wales. I’ve noted them all by their county/region so you can realistically plan where you can visit with the time you have.

1. Tintern Abbey (Wye Valley)

On the very edge of Wales is the Wye Valley so if you’re driving from England to Wales, especially if you’re on a London to Wales road trip, you should pass through the Wye Valley on the way.

One of the main places to visit in the Wye Valley is Tintern Abbey. The historic Abbey ruins of Tintern Abbey and the village of Tintern are a good places to stretch your legs at the start or end of your Wales road trip. If you want a bit of a hike you can hike up to Devils Pulpit which is nearby.

Book this guided-tour and escape to nature with a Wye Valley and Brecon Beacons Full-Day Trip

2. Cardiff City (Cardiff)

Cardiff is the capital city of Wales. You may be coming to Wales for nature on your Welsh road trip but if you fancy a good night out, Cardiff is well known for its weekend nightlife and things to do in Cardiff during the day include Cardiff Castle and walking around Cardiff Bay.

Cardiff is a good base to see more of South Wales from but I suggest you book accommodation in the places to visit in South Wales below rather than basing yourself in Cardiff and doing day trips out because even on a Wales road trip for 4 days you can still see a lot of the South of Wales!

Related Post: 16 Day Trips From Cardiff! & 1 Day Cardiff Itinerary!

3. Caerphilly Castle (Cardiff)

Caerphilly is just a 20 minute drive from Cardiff City Centre and it’s a good place to stop when you are entering or leaving Cardiff.

The top attraction is Caerphilly Castle which when constructed in the 13th Century was the biggest castle in Wales! Wales has some brilliant castles that you really should see when you’re here and because Caerphilly is so close to Cardiff, it’s a great place to pass through on your road trip around Wales.

If you want to stretch your legs, be sure to climb Caerphilly Mountain which is more of a hill than a mountain so it doesn’t take long and it’s pretty easy but it gives amazing countryside views!

Related Post: How To Do Caerphilly Mountain Walk! Easy Walk Near Cardiff!

Experience the magic of Caerphilly Castle for yourself – book now!

4. Castle Coch (Cardiff)

Another great stop on your way into or out of Cardiff is Castle Coch ! This is a really impressive castle and as you drive towards it, it looks like a fairytale castle sticking out of the woods! It’s a 19th-century Gothic Revival castle built to protect Cardiff.

You can go inside the castle by purchasing a ticket however it is impressive to see from the outside and you can also go for a walk around the woods of Forest Fawr where it’s located.

5. Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons is the best place for hiking in South Wales, it has the second-highest peak in Wales called Pen Y Fan (the highest peak is Snowdon in North Wales) and therefore it is easily one of the best places to visit in Wales.

There are hiking trails, waterfalls and pretty villages to be found in the Brecon Beacons so it has something for everyone and for every time of year.

Related Posts: How To Do Pen Y Fan Walk in The Brecon Beacons! & How To Do The 4 Waterfall Walk in the Brecon Beacons!

6. Hay on Wye (Brecon Beacons)

You’ll find this pretty market town in the Brecon Beacons in the North of the National Park on the edge of England and Wales.

It is famous for its literature and books and most of the town is book-themed which makes it a historic and pretty town for visitors to visit. You’ll find some good food there too!

7. National Showcaves Centre (Brecon Beacons)

A really great attraction in Wales for families is the National Showcaves Centre of Wales located in the south of the Brecon Beacons!

It is a cave exploration attraction with a dinosaur park, museum, Iron Age farm and kids’ play area so it’s the perfect stop on your Welsh road trip for children to enjoy!

8. Barry Island (Glamorgan)

If you know Gavin and Stacey, you’ll know Barry Island and for some seaside fun, head here! If you are a big fan of Gavin and Stacey you can even go on a Gavin and Stacey Tour .

You won’t get the best beach in wales here but you will get candy floss, arcade games and colourful beach huts. Some people think it’s a bit tacky but if you go for the fun of it, you’ll have a good time!

9. Nash Point (Glamorgan)

A hugely underrated part of Wales is the Glamorgan Heritage Coast ! This part of the Wales Coastal Path between Cardiff and Swansea is full of amazing beaches and Nash Point is my favourite!

It has a towering cliff edge and the rocks down at the beach are one of the best places in ways for fossil hunting in Wales! If you have children who are into dinosaurs, this is a great stop on your Wales Road Trip!

10. Cowbridge (Glamorgan)

Cowbridge is a lovely market town in-between Cardiff and Bridgend so if you’re driving from Cardiff to the Glamorgan Heritage Coast I suggest you take the scenic route rather than the M4 and drive through Cowbridge.

It’s full of independent shops in colourful buildings. There’s a pretty garden called the Physic Garden you can stretch your legs in and I recommend getting ice cream from Fablas Ice Cream Parlour .

11. Rhossili Bay (Swansea Gower)

The Swansea Gower feels like an Island off of the coast of South Wales but it is actually joined to the mainland.

Rhossili Bay is the most famous place to visit in the Gower because this beach has been voted as one of the best beaches in Wales (and maybe the world?) and it’s not hard to see why so it should be on your list of places to visit in Wales!

The beach is huge and you get an amazing view of it whilst taking a coastal walk down Worms Head.

12. Three Cliffs Bay (Swansea Gower)

Another one of the best beaches in Swansea Gower is the Three Cliffs Bay which offers you a wild beach experience with sand dunes, a salt marsh and limestone cliffs , plus an amazing sand beach.

The Gower is wild and wonderful. You can base yourself here for a few days on your Wales road trip or pass by for a day and this is one of the beaches you should visit!

Related Post: How To Visit Three Cliffs Bay & Three Cliffs Bay Walks!

13. The Mumbles (Swansea Gower)

For a Welsh seaside town, you can stop off at The Mumbles whilst on the Gower. The Mumbles has its own beach and colourful shops and cafes in town. There’s also a pier and lighthouse to visit at the end of the beach.

It’s a good place to get some lunch on the Gower before carrying on with the rest of your Wales road trip.

14. National Botanic Gardens of Wales (Carmarthenshire)

On your road trip through South Wales, the National Botanic Gardens of Wales is a good place to stop all year round and definitely one of the good things to do in Wales when it rains because much of it is inside!

Visit the Great Glasshouse and Tropical House indoors and get a ticket for the   British Bird of Prey Centre !

If the weather is good you can stretch your legs in the 400 acre Waun Las National Nature Reserve which is an enchanting mosaic of flower-rich meadows, evocative woodlands, waterfalls and cascades.

15. Pembrey Country Park and Beach (Carmarthenshire)

If you’re doing this Wales road trip with kids and want to wear them out, or you want a really good walk yourself, Pembrey Country Park is where you need to visit because it is easily one of the best places in Wales.

With an 8 mile long beach and a huge woodland area there is plenty of space to walk! You can also do activities here like horse riding, Wales longest toboggan run, dry ski slopes, crazy golf and more!

16. Tenby (Pembrokeshire)

Tenby beach is the most popular beach and seaside town in Pembrokeshire, and maybe even in Wales. This extremely colourful town has everything you need for a Welsh seaside holiday include holiday cottages , 3 sand beaches, coastal walks, shops, restaurants and boat tours.

I really recommend visiting Tenby on your Wales coastal road trip because it is such a popular place and one of the best places to visit in Wales. You can base yourself here to see more of Pembrokeshire from or you can stay nearby and visit for the day.

Tenby in the evening as the clouds turn a pastel colour is a lovely time of day too!

Related Post: Best Tenby Cottages for Self Catering in Tenby!

17. Saundersfoot (Pembrokeshire)

Saundersfoot has a beautiful, big, sandy beach with a pretty seaside village next to it.

Home to some amazing food and restaurants you should stop here on your Pembrokeshire road trip if you want a less touristic beach but still one with facilities around you.

Related Post: Things To Do in Saundersfoot & Things To Do Near Saundersfoot.

18. Manor Wildlife Park (Pembrokeshire)

Manor House Wildlife Park is a 52-acre zoo with large animal enclosures which you can walk through and see a close up view of the animals.

A great stop for families on a Wales road trip in Pembrokeshire to keep the kids entertained and great is the weather isn’t that great and you don’t want to be on the beach!

19. Manorbier Beach (Pembrokeshire)

Manorbier Beach is one of the beaches near Tenby, it’s popular with locals and holiday makers from nearby accommodation and holiday parks!

It’s a great beach for beginner surfing, and surfing for children because of it’s small waves. It has a rock and sand beach and is surrounded by a beautiful coastal path either side to more impressive places to visit in Wales which I’ve given next on this list!

Whilst stopping in Manorbier on your Wales road trip, you can also visit Manorbier Castle and get some cake at Beach Break Tearooms!

20. Church Door Cove (Pembrokeshire)

A super unique place to visit along the coast of Pembrokeshire is Church Door Cove ! A small bay with a huge ‘door’ cut into the cliffs from the Waves!

This is one of those cool places in Wales you see on Instagram and wonder – Where is that? How do I get there??

If you’re driving by you can park nearby at Lydstep Head however, the best way to visit Church Door Cove is to walk from Manorbier Beach along the Wales Coastal Path which is a stunning walk and will take about 45 minutes.

Related Post: How To Get To Church Door Cove & Skrinkle Haven Beach.

21. Barafundle Bay (Pembrokeshire)

Voted one of the beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay is a must visit on your Wales self drive itinerary. The reason why it is so nice is because you need to walk 10-15 minutes over a field and cliff top to get there and once you are there there are no beach facilities.

Even if you are doing this Wales road trip in the winter or on a non-beach day, the coastal walk here is nice and you’ll be surprised by what you see at the end!

Related Post: How to Get to Barafundle Bay.

22. Bosherston Lilly Ponds (Pembrokeshire)

This is a lovely and surprising walking loop from the very small village of Bosherston. From the car park, you are a minute from a beautiful pond and footpath that takes between 1-2 hours to walk around.

This is definitely one of the places you should visit on your Pembrokeshire road trip as part of your wider Wales road trip and it is easy to access from Tenby.

Related Post: How To Visit the Bosherston Lilly Ponds in Pembrokeshire!

23. Broad Haven South Beach (Pembrokeshire)

Half way through the Bosherston Lilly Ponds walk you will come out at Broad Haven Beach which is a huge, beautiful sand beach and no matter the weather deserves a visit during one of your days in Pembrokeshire.

Related Post: Broad Haven South Beach Directions, Information & Things To Do.

24. St Govan’s Chapel (Pembrokeshire)

If you want to visit a hidden gem in Wales , St Govan’s Chapel is the place to visit! This is a chapel hidden down a set of steps that leads out onto a hidden bay!

It’s a really close to Bosherston Lilly Ponds so you can visit both at one time and whilst you’re there have a walk out onto St Govan’s Head along the top of the cliff top.

Related Post: How to Visit St Govan’s Chapel in Pembrokeshire! A Hidden Place!

25. Freshwater West Beach (Pembrokeshire)

If you’re a Harry Potter fan you may know of this beach because it is where Dobby the house-elf is laid to rest after his battle! There is a little memorial with rocks and stones behind the dunes that you can visit which is very quirky and unique.

You should still visit this beach as part of your Wales road trip even if you are not a Harry Potter fan because it is another one of Pembrokeshire’s best beaches. I visited at sunset once and it was such an amazing sunset spot to try to include this on your itinerary for a wales road trip!

26. Pembroke Castle (Pembrokeshire)

Pembroke town is not somewhere you need too spend much time but whilst on your Wales scenic drive, beach hopping through Pembrokeshire, you may find yourself passing through and Pembroke Castle is a nice place to stop.

Wales has many castles and Pembroke Castle is one of the big castles that you can fully walk around so it’s one of the great things to do in Pembrokeshire with kids.

When in Pembroke town you can also take a walk along the river and get lunch or a drink in one of the many pubs close to the castle .

27. Oakwood Theme Park (Pembrokeshire)

This is Wales biggest theme park and from my many experiences there as a teenager, a really good theme park too!

If you want to do something a bit different or it is not beach weather, you can have fun here at Oakwood theme park !

28. Narberth (Pembrokeshire)

Narberth is inland in Pembrokeshire rather than on the coast like many of the places to visit in Pembrokeshire I have noted on this Wales road trip itinerary.

It is a pretty market town full of colourful houses and shops inside Georgian and Edwardian buildings and most of the shops are all independent and boutique shops which make it extra special.

If it’s not beach whether when you’re in Pembrokeshire then spend a few hours here instead and get warm in one of the cafes!

29. St Davids (Pembrokeshire)

St Davids is a city in Southern Pembrokeshire and is well worth a visit. St Davids Cathedral is stunning and people come all the way to the city just to see it.

Aside from this, although a city, St Davids is very walkable and from the Cathedral, you can walk its small streets which have independent shops running along them. From here you can also book onto tours to the nearby islands like Ramsey Island.

30. Ramsey Island (Pembrokeshire)

From St Davids I booked onto a Ramsey Island tour which I thoroughly enjoyed and I recommend it as one of your Wales road trip ideas! We were driven from the city to the coast which was handy so we didn’t have to drive ourselves, we got onto a small but comfy boat and were out on the search for seals before we knew it.

In the right season you can also spot whales and dolphins from here. It’s a great day trip activity in Pembrokeshire for children and adults!

Related Post: 10 Things To Do In Broad Haven close to St David’s .

31. Newgale Beach (Pembrokeshire)

Close to St David’s and worth stopping at on the way is Newgale Beach. It’s a huge beach at 3km long and when the tide is out it’s incredibly wide too, I’ve never seen a beach like it.

It’s a great beach for a good walk or for a beach day if the weather is nice!

32. Blue Lagoon (Pembrokeshire)

If you want somewhere cool to swim in Wales, especially in the summer, you have to add the Blue Lagoon to your Wales itinerary!

It’s a former slate quarry and now features a big, and deep, lagoon that is popular for coasteering, kayaking and swimming!

Abereiddy is the nearest town and you can visit Abereiddy Beach while you’re there!

33. Fishguard (Pembrokeshire)

Fishguard is a coastal town on the West Coast of Wales with a traditional Welsh harbour. If you’re just passing by you can stop at the harbour and take in the views or you can head into Fishguard town . You’ll find plenty of cafes in the town too to enjoy.

If you want some adventure you can go out on a kayak tour in search of marine life in all of the caves along the coast and you might spot seals too! In the right season, you can also do whale and dolphin boat tours from Fishguard which will add some excitement to your road trip through wales!

34. Aberfforest Beach (Pembrokeshire)

Close to Fishguard is a hidden beach you should make the effort to visit. There is no parking but as you go down the track you’ll see a small place to park on the edge of the lane and then it’s a 10-minute walk down a footpath.

You’ll be greeted with a small cove beach with calm water, it’s not a golden sand beach but still a nice one to sit on and great for dogs. Nearby there is Aberforrest Waterfall which you can walk to from the beach.

35. Preseli Hills (Pembrokeshire)

The Preseli Hills or Preseli Mountains as they are also known are a great place for a day of hiking in Wales on your Wales road trip. A lot of people go hiking in the Brecon Beacons but this is a great and alternate place to go hiking, you’ll likely see fewer people and it’s more of a wild Wales experience !

If you’re looking to go horse riding in Wales on your Wales road trip, the Preseli Hills are a good place to go riding!

36. Aberaeron (Cardigan)

If your wales road trip includes visiting both South and North Wales you’ll use the West Coast of Wales to get between them and you’re lucky because this Wales scenic drive along the West Coast is beautiful!

There are a few places to stop to break up your journey and Aberaeron charming and colourful Georgian harbour town on the Cardigan Bay is one of the places you can stop. You can stretch your legs on Aberaeron Beach or stop in one of its many cafes for a drink.

37. Aberystwyth (Cardigan)

Aberystwyth is an ancient market town but these day’s it is much more developed and the town centre isn’t so attractive in places but it does have a big beach and promenade to walk along and some other tourist attractions.

On your scenic drive in Wales along the West Coast, if you need to stop somewhere to pick up supplies , go shopping or have lunch, this is a good place to stop.

38. Elan Valley Dams (Powys)

The middle of Wales isn’t as visited as the North and South, probably because many of the roads are country roads but there are some stunning places to visit in Mid-Wales and in the Powys region of Wales!

One of these is the Elan Valley and the Elan Valley Dams and Reservoirs. They were built a hundred years ago to supply desperately needed clean water to Birmingham. Today, they are perfect for walking around and they are impressive to see with gushing water travelling from one dam to another!

(Although if the water levels are low as they were when I went, you won’t see gushing water, but they are still lovely to see and walk around.)

If you are coming from the Midlands into Wales on your road trip, this would be a good way to enter or exit Wales!

39. Mount Snowdon (Snowdonia National Park)

If the weather is on your side, climbing Mount Snowdon should be on your North Wales itinerary ! Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales and although climbing it is hard work, it is do-able!

There are a few routes to the top, I did it from Pen Y Pass which I recommend, and if you don’t fancy the walk you can get the Snowdon Mountain Railway train to the top which is especially good if you’re touring Wales by car with children.

Related Post: Climbing Snowdon From The Pen Y Pass Snowdon Route!

Don’t miss out on an unforgettable Snowdon Mount Climb – book now!

40. Fairy Falls Waterfall (Snowdonia National Park)

There are so many places to visit in on your North Wales road trip and the Fairy Falls is a waterfall that has been recommended to me a few times.

The Fairy Falls are located in the village of Trefriw which is located on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park. Trefriw is a good place for a walk around and you can continue walking further down the river that make the falls.

41. Cwmorthin Lake (Snowdonia National Park)

Snowdonia is made up of so many lakes and it will be hard to drive past them on your welsh road trip without wanting to stop! One of the good lakes to stop at is Cwmorthin Lake because of its history.

This used to be a slate mine so when you visit the lake you can see the former Cwmorthin Slate Mine, there is also Cwmorthin Waterfall down the river from the lake so it makes a great place to stop for a walk in nature.

If you fancy some wild swimming in Snowdonia National Park, this place is for you too!

42. Watkins Path Waterfalls (Snowdonia National Park)

Talking of wild swimming, one of the super unique and cool places for wild swimming in Snowdonia is the Watkin Path Waterfalls!

The Watkins Path is another route to the top of Mount Snowdon but close-ish to the start of the walk you’ll find lots of pools one after each other than run down the mountain. They’re basically natural infinity pools in Wales!

43. Mount Tryfan (Snowdonia National Park)

If you are up for an intense hike, be sure to add Mount Tryfan so your Wales road trip itinerary!

In fact, it’s not a hike, it’s a scramble to the top! It took me 5 hours and although it was hard and scary at times, it was so rewarding!

Related Post: A Guide to Climbing Tryfan & Hiking Tryfan for Non-Climbers in North Wales!

44. Zip World (Snowdonia National Park)

One of the top places to visit in Wales for a lot of fun is Zip World in North Wales.

They have 4 locations in North Wales and the activities in each of them change from a roller coaster through the forest, sky rides, velocity ziplines and so much more, so pick which ones sound most appealing to you and book in because this will give your Wales road trip a huge adrenaline hit!

45. Adventure Parc Snowdonia (Snowdonia National Park)

Adventure Parc Snowdonia has something for everyone in the family and you don’t have to have children to enjoy it! It’s an adults adventure playground too!

For high class, adrenaline activities like surfing on a man-made surfing pool, rock climbing walls, high ropes, indoor caves, soft play, paddle boarding, zip lines, biking and coasteering!

46. Portmeirion Tourist Village (Gwynedd)

For a slice of Italy in Wales, you can visit Portmeirion. It is a pretty iconic place so you may have seen photos of it before online and it’s definitely one of the most iconic places to visit in North Wales.

It is a tourist village and it does get very busy so don’t go expecting a quaint village, it also costs £12.00 per adult to enter but for a unique experience to see some nice buildings and gardens it’s worth going!

47. Harlech Beach (Gwynedd)

For a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water head to Harlech Beach ! It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales I have seen and I love that it has the sand dunes behind it.

Whilst you’re in Harlech you can check out the local town and definitely take a visit to Harlech Castle which stands prominently on the hill.

Harlech is a good place to visit before or after Portmeirion as they are quite close together.

48. Black Rock Sands Beach (Gwynedd)

Another beach recommendation for North Wales, did you know North Wales had this many amazing beaches?

Black Rock Sands Beach is a really cool and different beach to visit because you can drive onto it fully !! It’s so amazing!

It costs £5.00 to enter the beach and after that, you have the whole beach to decide where to drive and park up. There is a chance you could get stuck in wet sand but there are people there to help pull you out!

49. Abersoch Beach (Gwynedd)

North Wales has plenty of beaches too, for a calm and sandy beach , Abersoch is the beach for you. You can head here in all seasons for a sunny day on the beach and a winters walk.

If you have children this is a good beach to add to your North Wales road trip.

50. Aber Falls (Gwynedd)

Wales is all about waterfalls and one of the most visited waterfalls in North Wales is Aber Falls! It’s a great place to stop as you are leaving North Wales into North England because it’s just off the main A road.

Aber Falls is popular because it is fairly easily accessible so it’s good for kids to walk with an impressive waterfall at the end!

51. Newborough Beach (Anglesey Island)

This is one of my favourite beaches in North Wales! To get there you drive through Newborough National Nature Reserve, followed by a quick walk over sand dunes before getting to a long stretch of white sand !

The Snowdonia National Park Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to this beach. It’s perfect for water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding and you can do a great walk to the end of the peninsula to see the lighthouses.

52. Beaumaris (Anglesey Island)

Anglesey is an island off of the North-West coast of Wales and if there is one place you should visit here it is Beaumaris.

Beaumaris is a charming seaside town with a mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architect ure and lots of them are painted in bright colours! You can visit Beaumaris Castle , take a Puffin Island boat trip , walk along the seafront and get some fish and chips from one of the many shops!

53. Holyhead (Anglesey Island)

Holyhead is the harbour port where you get the boat over to Ireland . It is the biggest town on Anglesey Island and a great place to base yourself on this Wales road trip if you want to see a lot of Angelsey.

It has a bustling town with nearby beaches and activities like cycling, golf, a lighthouse walk and a Maritime Museum!

54. Parys Mountain (Anglesey Island)

This is a really unique place in North Wales and in Anglesey! It’s an historic copper mining site and because of this the ground and rocks are striking colours of gold and copper!

It’s a great place to go walking on Anglesey Island!

55. Conway City (Conwy)

Conway is a walled market town and worth visiting for a few reasons. The main reason being Conwy Castle which is a hugely impressive Castle and if you only visit one castle in Wales it should be this one!

Conway is also home to the smallest house in Great Britain and still has it’s town walls intact so it’s a great place to visit for history in North Wales if you don’t fancy a beach day.

56. LLandudno (Conwy)

Llandudno is an old British seaside resort but it is still thriving today and is clean and tidy to visit.

I love the old victorian buildings that line the huge promenade and beach and the Llandudno pier is a good place for some typical seaside fun!

It is a resort town so there are lots of activities near Llandudno like a ski slope and one of the popular things to do is to drive up to and around the Great Orme rock that stands out beside the town. Be sure to look for seals in the ocean below too!

Wales Road Trip FAQs

How long does it take to drive around wales.

To drive around the outer edge of Wales and therefore drive all the way around Wales it will take about 6-7 hours without stopping. This could take longer if you get stuck behind traffic on the small A roads.

How long does it take to drive from one end of Wales to the other?

4 hours. There is not a motorway connecting North and South Wales. To drive from one end of Wales to the other you can drive through the middle of Wales along the A470 in 4 hours, or the A49 which is mostly in England for 4 hours, or along the A487 on the West Coast in 4 hours. However, if you get stuck in traffic or behind tractors, the journey can take longer.

What is the best month to visit Wales?

Generally, there’s never a bad time to visit Wales as long as you are prepared for the weather. I’d say that late Spring in May and June and early Autumn in September and October is the best time for a Wales Road Trip and the best month to visit Wales.

How many days do you need to see Wales?

At least 3 days in Wales is a good amount of time to see a lot of the Country. However if you have 7 days or more, this will enable you to see both the North and South of Wales in one trip, or get to know one area really well.

I hope this has helped you plan your Wales road trip.

To SEE wales you can watch some of my Wales YouTube videos here !

• For more mosts on Wales to help plan your trip see:
• 12 Places To Go Glamping in Pembrokeshire All Year Round!
• 16 Day Trip From Cardiff Ideas in South Wales & England!
• A 2 Day North Wales Itinerary To Explore The Best of North Wales!

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The Complete Wales Road Trip Itinerary

Croeso i Gymru , or welcome to Wales! Whether you are already based in the UK or want to include Wales on your wider European itinerary, a road trip to this fascinating and beautiful country is a travel must. 

This guide offers a mostly coastal itinerary along the south and west of Wales. From secluded beaches to cascading waterfalls, misty mountains to majestic Norman castles, we’ve got it covered. 

Travelling by motorhome to Wales 

Taking a Welsh road trip is simple and straightforward. You don’t even need to pay a toll on the Severn Bridges these days. The Welsh Tourist Board has a wealth of information about the country including activities, events, attractions and camping and caravan sites. As with the rest of the UK, wild camping is illegal but you may find local pubs that will let you stay on the grounds in exchange for a pint or two. There are also a number of options for free overnight stays in this lovely country, which you can read about in our blog to free overnight motorhome parking in Wales . 

As you’d expect from such a tourist-friendly destination, there are plenty of great paid options for motorhome campsites. We’ll include a recommendation or two alongside each destination covered in the Wales road trip itinerary below. 

Planning your road trip 

The route we have outlined below could be part of a Wales road trip for 5 or 7 days or it could be longer. You might even take a section of it and incorporate it into a more ambitious UK-wide trip or as a warm-up to a road trip to the Atlantic Way in Ireland . The world is your lobster! 

As always with road trips, Wales is best enjoyed at a slower pace with a bit of time put aside to stay an extra day if you fall in love with a place or if the weather doesn't cooperate. Wales is a famously rainy country and you can have four seasons in one hour, never mind a day. Make sure you come prepared with plenty of waterproof clothing, good boots if you are going hiking, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. 

The best time of year for a Welsh road trip depends on what you want from your holiday. Beaches around the Gower and Pembrokeshire will be very busy during summer and parking could be a nightmare. But the weather could/should be better in peak season and you might be able to arrange your trip to coincide with one of Wales’ excellent music festivals . Spring and Autumn are a lovely times for a Wales road trip. The former offers gorgeous blooms of wildflowers, misty morning views and banks of fragrant and tasty wild garlic. The latter gives you the chance to see Wales’ ancient woodlands resplendent in Autumnal colours and perhaps a seal pup sighting. 

Wales road trip itinerary

As we mentioned, the following can be a 5 or 7-day Wales road trip itinerary or longer if you have the time. You can do it whichever way round you like. 

Brecon Beacons 

Abergavenny via brecon to swansea.

Stock up on delicious local cheeses and other produce in Abergavenny, the food capital of Wales, then set off northwest for a stunning journey through the Brecon Beacons. Pen Y Fan, which translates roughly as Top Spot, dominates the view along the way. If you would like to climb this glorious mountain take a look at the Visit Wales guide before planning your approach. 

A pitstop at Brecon town offers the chance to check out the Cathedral or Brecon Canal Basin. Journey southwards through the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park, leaving plenty of time to visit the cascades in the area’s Waterfall Country before heading onto Swansea and the start of the Gower.  

Where to stay

Despite the name, Brecon Beacons Wild Camping is a paid site but offers a great sense of freedom and good access to Pen Y Fan and many other attractions. If you are keen to cycle or walk some of the Taff Trail, Pencelli Castle Caravan and Camping Park is a great choice. 

From £26 per night

Pencelli Castle Farm, Pencelli, Brecon LD3 7LX, United Kingdom

51.914767, -3.317913

Swansea to Rhossili Bay

Driving across the Gower you’ll be treated to a delightful colour palette of pale green grasses, and seemingly endless white sandy beaches. This is the UK’s first designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and it leads the charge in style. 

Don’t miss a swim or walk at the beautiful Three Cliffs Bay before heading on to Oxwich Bay and Rhossili Bay where the views of Worm’s Head are more than worth getting stuck behind the odd tractor. If you are partial to a fine ale, stop in at one of the many welcoming pubs for a pint of Gower Gold, a delicious local ale. Head northwards make a stop at the characterful Weobley Castle , picking up some delicious salt marsh lamb for a BBQ if the mood takes you. 

Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park is ideally positioned to explore this delightful beach. Another great option is Greenways campsite . With award-winning showers, Greenways promises plenty of comfort as well as spectacular views of Oxwich Bay and the Bristol Channel and access to the Wales Coast Path . 

From £33.50 per night

North Hill Farm, N Hills Ln, Penmaen, Swansea SA3 2HB, United Kingdom

51.577746, -4.115952

Pembrokeshire

Rhossili bay to st davids.

Heading west towards Pembrokeshire, break the journey with a stop at the 400 acres of horticultural loveliness that is the Welsh Botanic Gardens before travelling onto the harbour town of Tenby. Strolling the cobbled streets and eating fresh seafood in the shelter of the 13th Century town walls you’ll feel like you're holidaying inside a postcard, in the best possible way. 

Making your way further west you’ll have your pick of glorious beaches and coastal walks. From the lighthouse at St Ann’s Head (reputedly the sunniest place in Wales) to mindblowing views at Marlowe Sands and Druidstone Beach, you’ll easily fill a few days and nights of your Wales road trip itinerary. 

Britain’s smallest city, St Davids is a must-visit on any Welsh road trip. The ‘city’ itself is small but offers a number of great eateries and access to a section of the Wales coast path that will enchant even the weariest travellers. If the weather is right take a boat trip out to the RSPB reserve at Ramsey Island where you can spot seals, puffins and porpoises. 

Caerfai Bay Caravan and Tent Park is a family-run site, situated above the gorgeous beach of the same name and only 15 minutes walk from St Davids. For exploring St Ann’s Head and Marlowe Sands, the Point Farm Campsite is a great choice. Advanced booking is essential.  

From £24 per night

Ffordd Caerfai, St Davids, Haverfordwest SA62 6QT, United Kingdom

51.873218, -5.258307

St Davids to Portmeirion

This is the longest stretch of your Welsh road trip so if you want to make the odd stop off, an afternoon dolphin spotting in New Quay or a stroll on the beach at Aberystwyth is well worth the car park fee. On a clear day, you might be able to see the jagged peaks of Snowdonia National Park in the distance as well as a wonderful array of seabirds including cormorants, choughs, little auks and shags.  

Arriving at your final stop in Snowdonia you have the option of some wonderful walking routes . Some of the longer walks will require a bit of planning ahead and, of course, the right equipment. For example, if you want to park at Pen y Pass you will need to pre-book a parking space. If hiking is not your thing, don’t worry. Check out the Visit Wales website for more details on activities and cultural highlights (including the ubiquitous castles). 

Complete your trip with a visit to Portmeirion , a genuinely unique private village which you can visit with a pre-booked day ticket or stay the night in one of the hotels and guest houses. 

Snowdonia has a wide range of motorhome campsites. The Llwyn yr Hem Caravan and Camping Park offer secluded sites in a wonderful location (as well as the chance to practice your Welsh pronunciation!). Another favourite is the Llechrwd campsite , a small family-run site on the river Dwyryd in the beautiful Vale of Ffestiniog. Try saying that after a few Snowdonia Ales.

From £23 per night

Brithdir, Dolgellau LL40 2SA, United Kingdom

52.755736, -3.812847

Before you go

Roads in Wales are very good and there is plenty of helpful signage (and friendly locals to ask for directions if you get stuck). Many of the areas we have mentioned in this itinerary are rural so expect to share road space with sheep, cows and a variety of plant and farm machinery. 

As we have mentioned, Welsh weather is famously unpredictable and changeable. If you are going to hike in a mountainous area or climb one of Wales’ peaks, always check the mountain forecast beforehand.  

The areas around Pembrokeshire and Cardigan Bay are important breeding grounds for seals, in fact, Ramsey Island is host to one of the largest breeding colonies of Atlantic Grey Seals in the British Isles. If you are lucky enough to see a pup (usually late August to early November) keep your distance and don’t venture onto beaches where the pup and/or its family are sheltering, especially not with dogs. If the mum feels threatened she is likely to abandon the pup completely. Find out more here . 

There’s so much to see in Wales, so what better way to experience it than in a motorhome? If you don’t have your own vehicle but would like to find out more about enjoying the freedom of the open road in a rented vehicle, check out motorhomes for hire in Wales  today. 

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The Welsh road trip set to rival the North Coast 500

Traffic, litter and packed hotels are taking the shine off scotland’s fabled driving route — and wales is in pole position to take the podium for best uk drive.

O n a sunny morning in Britain’s best city I get on to discussing the nature of journeys. “Some people come to St Davids as tourists but do things like light candles or sit and ponder,” the Very Rev Dr Sarah Rowland Jones, the cathedral dean, tells me. “Others arrive on the coast path with an openness to being surprised by the gifts of the journey.”

She’s talking about pilgrimage, which had people visiting St Davids long before Pope Callixtus II decreed in 1123 that two journeys here equalled one to Rome, but it’s a fair summary of my week ahead.

Received wisdom has it that the North Coast 500 in Scotland is the best summer road trip in the UK — like a Nordic saga, its odyssey is a legend of coastal adventures. The reality, though, is motorhome traffic jams and nowhere to park. That’s where Wales comes in.

With little in the way of fanfare the Welsh tourist board has devised three driving routes. One of them, the Coastal Way, is a sort of West Coast 180 — 180 miles from sea to summits, tracking up Cardigan Bay from St Davids to Eryri National Park (Snowdonia) before arcing southwest down the Llyn peninsula. You could tick it off in four hours on the A487, but where would be the fun in that?

Very sensibly, the tourist board’s website suggests taking a week over the route, with detours along the way. I plan to find some of my own, though, because a satisfying road trip requires a pilgrim’s mentality — you know how it starts and ends; in between you trust to “the gifts of the journey”, relying on serendipity as much as suspension. I plan to avoid A roads and explore — to go, as the Welsh say, igam ogam , or zigzag.

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The trouble is leaving St Davids. The village-sized city is an Enid Blyton fantasy of tearooms, galleries and gift shops selling shrimp nets propped in buckets outside. Holidaymakers in walking boots mill around its medieval cross as jackdaws chuckle overhead.

“St Davids is just a step forward in the journey through life,” Rowland Jones tells me. Beyond slate roofs the sea throws a come-hither wink.

Persuaded onwards, I divert off the A487 on to lanes. White farmhouses are pillowed among hills ridged by crags. Hand-painted signs for campsites stand half-obscured among a froth of grasses and ox-eye daisies. “Araf, Slow” is painted on the roads — out here, where the phone signal is patchy enough to be a thing of teenage nightmares, it reads like lifestyle advice.

Twenty minutes later I arrive in Porthgain, which has a workaday air after St Davids, as though it can’t quite reconcile itself to the demise of the Lilliputian harbour that exported locally quarried stone for Britain’s roads in the late 19th century. A fisherman in yellow oilskins fiddles with ropes beneath quarry ruins. The Shed dishes up stellar fish and chips in a former brickworks (from £11; theshedporthgain.co.uk).

Lunch sorted, it’s onwards through villages of stone in colours for which Farrow & Ball would kill. I follow signs to the traditional weaver Tregwynt Mill, where looms throb in a barn workshop, and leave with a fistful of patterned offcuts for which I’ve no real use — they may make coasters, but it doesn’t really matter; why resist beauty that costs less than a pint (melintregwynt.co.uk)? Ahead a low ridge rises above the hedgerows.

Archaeologists say that Iron Age Celts established the Garn Fawr hillfort — that ridge, three miles further near Strumble Head — for defence. They’re probably right — the view from its trig point sweeps over fields and coast — but alone among the rocks I can’t help thinking that there’s more to it than that. This area held a deeper significance for the ancients: standing stones litter its hills and in 2021 scientists found evidence that Stonehenge was originally erected a few miles inland from here.

Ahead to the west the sea is a bolt of silver-blue satin, unfurled to the horizon, hazing into the sky so I can’t tell where one starts and the other ends. In the murmur of waves below I hear the old gods whisper. It could be exactly what the 20th-century poet Waldo Williams, who lived nearby, meant when he wrote of “One gentle moment . . ./ To bring to mind things that are forgotten/ Now scattered in the dust of ages past”.

North again, between Pembrokeshire and Powys, Ceredigion is the best bit of west Wales that few tourists bother with. It is to Britain what rural California is to America, a bucolic coast at the fringe of things, where plaid-shirted farmers coexist with inspiring eco-enterprises, such as the camping outfit Fforest (two nights’ camping from £219; coldatnight.co.uk). “Everyone here does something creative on the side,” Seren Smylie Wild tells me when I stop one day at Bara Menyn Bakehouse in Cardigan. She’s an artist when not baking; her baker husband writes.

Well, who wouldn’t? Quiet compared with Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion is a landscape that could inspire poetry. Following signs to Mwnt, I take a lane that looks like a doodle on the map to a tiny white church smelling of beeswax and centuries-old faith. Medieval pilgrims bound for St Davids from the north landed on the beautiful beach beneath — the miracle is that they tore themselves away.

The story goes that Elgar was inspired by singing he heard when staying in nearby Llangrannog. A pipsqueak resort seems a strange choice of holiday for the Nimrod composer. Then you arrive at the beach. It’s as British as buckets and spades: toddlers shriek delightedly in the surf; a man sits eating an ice cream, eyed by a gull daring itself to swoop.

Llangrannog has several bays, ice-cream parlours and two decent places to eat. What more do you need? If it’s school holidays, then peace, actually.

On a tip from Smylie Wild I walk south on the Wales Coast Path. After a mile it scrambles down to a half-moon of sand within a cove. Locals call this Traeth Bach, and there are only four of us here.

The Welsh Celts understood their world as divided into three realms. I’d experienced sea for the past 60 miles; beyond Aberaeron the next day land and sky take over.

The A487 stretching unbroken ahead, I detour inland towards Tregaron. The landscape broadens, flexing its muscles as the Cambrian Mountains — cyclists rave about the empty single-track roads, but it’s better understood by its sobriquet: the “Desert of Wales”. It’s a haunting land of treeless moors where foothills ripple like Saharan dunes; vast cloudscapes billow over domed summits. Shelley brought his first wife, Harriet, to live here shortly after their marriage, bewitched by the romance of a life “embosomed in the solitude of the mountains”; her reaction is unrecorded.

Into Machynlleth — arty (there’s a fine gallery and interesting shops); hippy (the excellent Centre for Alternative Technology is nearby); rooted in farming; and proud of its status as Wales’s “first capital”, having been the seat of the country’s parliament in the early 15th century. A woman with a faded tie-dye T-shirt and embroidered Indian skullcap walks by as a Land Rover rattles past with a trailer of sheep.

● Best beaches in Wales ● 14 of the top hotels in Wales

With the Michelin-starred Ynyshir, which came top in the National Restaurant Awards, plus a gorgeous mosaic of oak forest, marsh and estuary in the RSPB nature reserve just down the road, Machynlleth is the sort of singular small town where you catch yourself at estate agent windows, imagining another life, rethinking your life goals. But empty roads have a way of pulling you on.

Ten miles further, now in Eryri National Park, I spend a morning on a paddleboard off Aberdyfi, catching the last of the flood tide up the estuary. Dave Bartlett of Let’s SUP is discussing obscure techniques (one hour from £35pp; letssup.co.uk). I nod, but I’m afraid I’m not really listening. Drenched in sunshine, Aberdyfi’s waterfront is a parade of pastels. Sailboats tug at their mooring as though eager for the sea. Everywhere you look there’s a rumble of mountains. Aberdyfi may not be Wales’s most celebrated resort, but at that moment it is one of its finest, and I couldn’t feel happier.

And that’s the thing about the Coastal Way — if no single destination en route warrants a long drive, each combines into a hugely rewarding whole. What this coast lacks in big-hitter sights or, heaven forbid, travel “experiences”, it makes up for in small moments of wonder. “Do the little things in life,” advise the Welsh, borrowing from the final sermon of St David. Smart cookies, the Welsh.

I promised you a trip from sea to summits. Cadair Idris scrapes against clouds 30 minutes by car north of Aberdyfi, near the handsome town of Dolgellau. I drive to the start of Pony Path, which climbs its northwest flank, pull on my boots and start to walk.

James Stewart was a guest of Visit Wales ( visitwales.com ), Twr y Felin Hotel in St Davids, Harbourmaster Hotel in Aberaeron and Penmaenuchaf in Dolgellau

Where to stay en route

1. Twr y Felin, St Davids, Pembrokeshire With abstract canvases on its walls and a strict palette of grey and black for its minimalist metropolitan styling, this art hotel seems an anomaly in its rural setting, right up until you get to reception and are met with a welcoming, “Hiya”. Its first-floor rooms are the pick for views across fields to the sea. There’s a spa, as well as a formal restaurant, Blas. Ten minutes’ walk from the front door brings you to the centre of St Davids, or to the beach at beautiful Caerfai Bay. Details B&B doubles from £120 ( twryfelin.com )

2. Harbourmaster, Aberaeron, Ceredigion The 13-room gastro stay that put colourful Aberaeron on the tourism map (and inspired a multitude of similar small hotels in Wales) is all you’d hope of a salty harbour spot: boats outside its three Georgian houses on the quay; a relaxed feel (the young staff are lovely); stylish, with on-trend Welsh woven fabrics, but also nicely quirky (love the mermaid wallpaper and porthole bathroom windows). If it’s like staying with friends, it’s the ones with cracking culinary chops — the restaurant is excellent. Details B&B doubles from £155 ( harbour-master.com )

3. Penmaenuchaf, Dolgellau, Gwynedd The team behind Pembrokeshire’s award-winning Grove hotel is slowly transforming this 21-acre, 19th-century baronial estate beside the Mawddach estuary into its Gwynedd equivalent. Four top-floor rooms had a recent makeover with a fresh, playful take on Victoriana: soft sage and teal colours against pink clawfoot baths and sumptuous fabrics. More will be refurbished this coming winter. Public areas pull off the neat trick of being smart — oak panelling, swagged curtains, squishy sofas — but never stuffy. The staff are faultless and the modern British restaurant is first class. All in all a terrific stay. Details B&B doubles from £161 ( penmaenuchaf.co.uk ) Vote for your favourite holiday companies to win spectacular prizes Vote for your holiday heroes in the Times and Sunday Times Travel Awards to win fantastic prizes, including a week in the Maldives, a gourmet break in Oxfordshire and three nights at an upmarket beach resort in Andalusia. To be in with a chance of winning one of these prizes, you need to let us know the destinations, airlines, cruise lines, hotels and other travel companies that have gone the extra mile during the past 12 months. Visit thetimes.co.uk/travel/awards for more

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Home » Travel Experiences » Transport » Best driving roads in Wales – The Elan Valley

Best driving roads in Wales – The Elan Valley

Last Updated on 12th July 2021

You’ve watched BBC’s Top Gear enough times over the years to know Wales has some quite amazing scenery. But where are the best driving roads in Wales and is there one you should do more than the others? I asked myself the same thing, so once the UK lockdown had ended and Wales had reopened, I headed off exploring to find out.

I’m all for experiences rather than things , even if you need a “thing” in the first place to have an experience with! Making a specific driving trip to Wales had always been high up on my “things to do list”.

So why The Elan Valley driving route?

My shortlist consisted of a route from Cardiff up into the Brecon Beacons, a circular drive around the Snowdon massif, and the A4069 Black Mountain Pass. The latter commonly known as the ‘Top Gear road’ with Jeremy Clarkson filming there on numerous occasions.

I consulted with some people on an MR2 owners group to see what the best driving roads in Wales are. The general consensus was The Elan Valley in Mid-Wales. I hadn’t even been aware of it up until then:

“Go to Elan Valley then take the mountain pass between Rhayader and Aberystwyth.” “I second Elan Valley, one of my favourite places to go for a drive.” “The Elan Valley then west towards Devil’s Bridge is a great route.” MR2 Owners Club Facebook comments

So after doing a little more of my own research I decided on the superb driving route from Rhayader to Devil’s Bridge, but first incorporating a clockwise lap of the 5 Elan Valley dams.

As well as being wonderful in their own right, Caban Coch reservoir was made famous as the location in 1942 for initial testing of the Dambusters’ “bouncing bomb” . More recently Top Gear’s Richard Hammond winched himself up Claerwen dam in a green Land Rover Defender.

A good place to stay in Rhayader?

We stayed at the Ty Morgans hotel right in the centre of Rhayader. It was the perfect location to explore the town and be in the right place to head out driving the next day. There’s plenty of parking on the street – right under your window if you’re lucky. Use this Hotels.com link and I might get a small commission which will help keep this website running too 🙂

How long does The Elan Valley drive take?

From Rhayader to Claearwen Dam and then on to Devil’s bridge is 35 miles. It takes 1h 49 minutes according to Google but in reality you’ll be parking up constantly to admire the views. Or at least a minimum of five times to take a closer look at its 5 main dams. The whole Rhayader to Rhayader trip is only 54 miles and non-stop takes 2 hours. You climb (and fall) 1,100m in total.

Most people start out at Rhayader, go clockwise around the dams before heading out west towards Devil’s Bridge … so that’s what I decided to do too. Also it meant there’s less chance of meeting cars coming in the opposite direction.

The start and finish point is marked by the red waymarker on the map above. NB. If you’re low on petrol there are two Texaco petrol stations in town to top yourself up.

The waterfall icons show the Elan Valley’s dams.

FUN FACT : the orange icon, a couple of km south of Cwmystwyth is the geographical centre point of Wales! (ever wondered London’s too?) .

The 11-step guide to driving The Elan Valley

Using the car park numbers on the map below follow the 11 steps below to see all the “good stuff” on your way round. Source.

1. Start out at the Rhayader Clock Tower … and head south towards The Elan Valley Visitor centre. This is on ‘National Cycle Route 81’ … but is still a normal road for cars. (1 on the map above).

2. Swing by the ‘Elan Valley Visitor Centre’ … for a coffee/nose around, before continuing on past dam one on your left – the Caban Coch dam.

3. Head onward towards dam two – the Garreg Ddu Dam. Cross over the dam (2) and turn left towards dam 3 – the Claerwen Dam (4 & 5).

4. Visit both Claerwen’s upper and lower car parks (4 & 5). This is where Richard Hammond was winched up it in an old Land Rover.

5. Double back on yourself, returning over the Garreg Ddu Dam (2).

6. Cross the dam and turn left towards the Penbont Tearooms (6). Remember to check out dam 4 – the Pen y Garreg dam (7) as you switchback up past the restaurant.

7. Continue on to dam 5 – the Craig Goch dam (8) (with optional short drive over it … and back again) . Cover photo above too.

8. Continue along the road to the uphill T-junction (9). 9. Turn west towards Cwmystwyth. Enjoy this more spirited and open drive over the backbone of the Cambrian Mountains. 10. At Cwmystwyth join the B4574 which takes you on to Devil’s Bridge. NB. There’s a car pack on your left 200m before you head down into the village. Enjoy an ice cream at the Hafod hotel (below) before checking out the Devil’s bridge falls and its 3-tiered bridge. 11. Finally return west to east straight back towards Rhayader.

There are actually 7 dams in The Elan Valley?

Yes there are but the Dol y Mynach is hidden from the road down a steep footpath. If you’re a fan of What3Words this is a good spot to see it through a gap in the trees.

The Nant-y-Gro dam is in a derelict state and no longer used but is the “Bouncing Bomb” test dam. Both can be found on the Caban Coch reservoir (below) and also on the map above.

If you visit after a spell of rain or nearer the winter time you might see more of the dams in full flow. When I was there in late July it was only the northern most dam – Craig Goch – that had water flowing over it.

What’s it like to drive on Welsh countryside roads?

So why are the best driving roads in Wales? Well I may have had rose-tinted sunglasses on but the Welsh roads simply felt “better”. No pot holes and no tell-tale signs of previous roadworks. Another bonus was they felt pretty empty too, but then it was late July 2020 as we were opening ourselves up to travelling again.

A lot of the roads within the Elan valley are single-track ones (no dividing white line in the middle) . This was noticeable on some stretches along the B4574 near Cwmystwyth and certainly around the dams loop. But occasionally you can see 3-4 bends ahead and can have a lot more confidence knowing nothing was coming around the next corner!

The road in-between Cwmystwyth and Devil’s bridge was a delightful stretch of seemingly freshly-laid light grey tarmac with black and white Armco barriers in place. It felt like I was on a racetrack at times, but ever cautious of the sheep nibbling the grass on the side of the road.

Another gem stretch was on the way to Claerwen dam soon after crossing the Garreg Ddu Dam. A long line of towering conifers reminded me of the mighty sequoias of California and it warranted another parked up, legal photograph!

What are some great Elan Valley photo spots?

You will be literally spoilt for choice! I took photos at every dam and made sure I went to both the lower and upper car parks at Claerwen dam to do both “looking up” and “looking down” shots. That long row of tall conifers just past Garreg Ddu Dam are pretty impressive too.

You can get various nice views from the car park at Garreg Ddu Dam. However the most picturesque dam is considered to be the upper most dam – Craig Goch. I was lucky to see water flowing over it when I visited (cover shot). Finally at point (9) on the map you get some sweeping views across the valley showing how exposed you are up there!

If you’re in to nighttime DLSR photography then the Claerwen dam is a designated ‘Dark Sky Discovery Site’. Visit when there’s a cloudless sky and a New Moon and I’m sure it would be pretty magical!

Anything else of interest as you drive along?

Between the first dam (Caban Coch dam) and the second (Garreg Ddu Dam) look left across the Caban Coch reservoir to see the remains of the Nant-y-Gro Dam . Here you’ll “just” about see the remains of the “Bouncing Bomb” experiments. You certainly need to look for it so maybe best for the passenger in the left-hand seat to do that!

The Wild Swan store in the centre of Rhayader did dome delicious homemade Welsh Cakes. Perfect food for the multiple pit stops I intended to have as I circumnavigated the valley.

At the end of the day enjoy a drink sat outside the now lime green-coloured Elan Hotel just down from the Clock Tower. It gets bathed in sunshine in the evening during the summer months and is the perfect spot for a post drive congratulatory pint. You’ve just experienced one of the best driving roads in Wales!

For a full week long itinerary for the Cambrian Mountains check out this wonderful guide by WalesBucketList.

Now you’ve checked out one of the best driving roads in Wales why not read up on some of our other car exploits ? But if you’ve now got a taste for some more UK-based trips then check out ‘the 5 best UK road trips’ according to A Lady in London too. Drive safely! 🙂

You’ve made it all the way down to the bottom of the page! If you’ve liked what you’ve read then please consider buying me a coffee to say thanks 🙂 Just click on the button above!

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What we know about Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday after being hit by a cargo ship, with large parts of the bridge falling into the Patapsco River.

At least eight people fell into the water, members of a construction crew working on the bridge at the time, officials said. Two were rescued, one uninjured and one in serious condition, and two bodies were recovered on Wednesday. The remaining four are presumed dead. The workers are believed to be the only victims in the disaster.

Here’s what we know so far.

Baltimore bridge collapse

Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being hit by a cargo ship , sending at least eight people from a construction crew into the water. Two people were rescued and the remaining six are presumed dead, officials said. Follow live updates and see photos from the scene .

How it happened: The container ship lost power shortly before hitting the bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) said. Video shows the bridge collapse in under 40 seconds.

Victims: Divers recovered the bodies of two construction workers who died , while finding other vehicles trapped and probably containing the other victims, officials said. They were fathers, husbands and hard workers . The entire crew aboard the container ship Dali survived . First responders shut down most traffic on the four-lane bridge after the crew issued an urgent mayday call. It saved lives, Moore said.

Economic impact: The collapse of the bridge, which severed ocean links to the Port of Baltimore, adds a fresh headache to already struggling global supply chains . See how the collapse will disrupt the supply of cars, coal and other goods .

History: The Key Bridge was built in the 1970s and spanned the Patapsco River. Rebuilding the bridge will probably take years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars, experts said.

• Remains of two people recovered as details emerge about Baltimore bridge collapse Earlier today Remains of two people recovered as details emerge about Baltimore bridge collapse Earlier today
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• Meditation and spirituality

Historic monuments on the Pembrokeshire coast

A walk in the footsteps of saints, along the Welsh coastline between St Non's Chapel and St Davids.

Destinations

Find out about the regions of Wales: dramatic North Wales; rolling Mid Wales; the coastal West; and the urban South.

North Wales

The epic landscapes of North Wales are alive with action, and a rich, distinctive culture. Find World Heritage, one of Europe’s oldest living languages, and the UK’s best adventure. Within the region of North Wales you'll find Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Wrexham and Ynys Môn (the Isle of Anglesey).

South Wales

Home to Cardiff, the young and creative capital city, South Wales is a hub of sporting events and Welsh culture. Discover coastal hikes, vibrant communities and the serenity of the Wye Valley. Within the region of South Wales you'll also find Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Merthyr, Monmouthshire, Newport, Torfaen, RCT, and the Vale of Glamorgan.

Mid Wales is the green heart of Wales. The clear seas, bright harbours and hidden coves of the Ceredigion coastline give way to red kite-filled skies, busy market towns and dramatic hill walks. Within the region of Mid Wales you'll find Ceredigion and Powys.

Cultural and coastal West Wales is home to our second city, Swansea. Ancient legends inspire contemporary creativity – and colourful seaside villages lead to some of the UK's best beaches. Within the region of West Wales you'll find Carmarthenshire, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, and Swansea.

Action packed itineraries, Discover Wales by trails

Enjoy a three day family adventure.

Looking for inspiration? We've planned a family holiday itinerary of fun activities in Eryri (Snowdonia).

• Eryri National Park

Five days in South Wales

A family trip around South Wales unearths some of the major tourist attractions.

• Trains and railways
• Shopping centres and malls

A six day trip along the North Wales Way

Epic castles, eons of history, rugged scenery, fine food and drink - just waiting to be discovered.

A week from the mouth to the eye of the River Wye

Here are some of the many things to see, eat, drink and do along the shores of the River Wye.

Big skies and big adventures in rural Mid Wales

Immerse yourself in the outdoors around Llanidloes and Clywedog in the Cambrian Mountains.

History and heritage trails

Discover our seven national museums .

For Welsh history and culture, our seven, free entry National Museums take some beating.

Wonderfully quirky places to visit

Discover our eccentric heritage with some wonderfully unusual places to visit.

Wales’ most soulful abandoned abbeys and castles

Discover the Welsh abbeys and castles that inspired JMW Turner, William Wordsworth and Dylan Thomas.

Wales Slate: The quarry communities of Gwynedd

Discover the quarry communities of Wales' UNESCO World Heritage site and their vibrant cultural landscapes.

• UNESCO Heritage

Follow the trail of Gwynedd’s majestic castles

The county of Gwynedd, in North Wales, provides a trail of majestic castles to explore.

Walking trails

Walking our long distance trails.

Discover our waymarked long-distance routes that offer inspirational walking in Wales.

Accessible adventures on the Wales Coast Path

Nine easy access sections of the path for wheelchairs, buggies and trikes.

Pick your favourite walk on Glyndŵr's Way

It’s got history, heritage and scenery. Take in some of the most beautiful views in Wales on Glyndŵr's Way.

Walking in Wales: region by region

Discover some of the best places to stretch your legs in Wales.

Delicious trails

Cooking up a storm - cardiff's indie food scene.

Fancy a bite? Here's the lowdown on the coolest cafés and most excellent eateries in Cardiff.

Wales' Michelin supper stars

Join Lowri Haf Cooke on a gastronomic grand tour of Wales' Michelin star restaurants.

Join the Welsh gin revolution!

Go on a gin distillery tour, sip and sample the spirits and even try making your own.

Interesting eats along the Welsh border

Kacie Morgan of The Rare Welsh Bit blog discovers an edible treasure hunt along the Welsh borders.

Cook yourself a traditional Welsh treat

Bara brith: our traditional welsh recipe.

Bara Brith is a rich fruit loaf made with tea. Here's our recipe for making this favourite Welsh tea-time treat.

How to make crempogau - Welsh pancakes

Traditional Welsh crempogau are thick pancakes and traditionally eaten on Shrove Tuesday.

How to make cawl

How to make Cawl - a traditional Welsh stew that can be made with meat or fish.

How to make vegan Glamorgan sausages

Avant-garde vegan chef Gaz Oakley shares his recipe for tasty Welsh classic, Glamorgan sausages.

Enjoy making a Welsh rarebit 

Dating from the 18th century this Welsh dish is a kind of ‘posh cheese on toast’ with a Welsh twist.

• National symbols

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Writing by Lisa Shumaker; Editing by Daniel Wallis and Josie Kao

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Lisa's journalism career spans two decades, and she currently serves as the Americas Day Editor for the Global News Desk. She played a pivotal role in tracking the COVID pandemic and leading initiatives in speed, headline writing and multimedia. She has worked closely with the finance and company news teams on major stories, such as the departures of Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Amazon’s Jeff Bezos and significant developments at Apple, Alphabet, Facebook and Tesla. Her dedication and hard work have been recognized with the 2010 Desk Editor of the Year award and a Journalist of the Year nomination in 2020. Lisa is passionate about visual and long-form storytelling. She holds a degree in both psychology and journalism from Penn State University.

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