The 15 most beautiful places to visit in Wales

To the west of Great Britain, a nation murmurs its secrets. From the mountains to the sea, discover the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Wales.

Land of castles and valleys, Wales is the paradise of lovers of majestic landscapes. It is true that the region has many surprises for travellers seeking emotions and sensations. Devour the mysteries of Wales by visiting seaside villages, green parks and grandiose monuments. Along the way, meetings with history and welcoming residents mix with your excursions in the middle of nature. Your Celtic sword starts now.

Take a seat on board and let yourself be the 15 most beautiful places to visit in Wales! The list is non-exhaustive as the area abounds in wonders.

1. Snowdonia

Welcome to the largest park in Wales. Offer yourself a breath of oxygen in this landscape designed with lakes, ridges and beaches. These poetic landscapes are an invitation to dreaming, to the escape of the mind. During your trip, a kyrielle of activities invites you to explore the park more intimately.

Gravir Mont Snowdon

With an altitude of 1,085 metres, Mont Snowdon is the highest peak in England and is to be visited in Wales. To reach its summit, several trails are traced. If you are not in a sports mood, a small train will take you to your destination. Whatever the chosen option, you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view at the finish but also throughout your ascent.

Hiking to Swallow Falls

Do you hear the clapot water? Magic emanates from Gwydir's Welsh Forest thanks to the Swallow Falls. Visiting Wales without its touch of fairy is unimaginable. And this natural setting bathed by a succession of cascades could perfectly be the home of legendary creatures. Take care of this stroll Almost supernatural.

Get down in Llechwedd's bowels

The depths of the earth call you for an unforgettable moment. Llechwedd slate mines are one of Snowdonia’s flagship attractions. Dive into their darkness by landing in a cable car. After a few minutes of journey, colossal caves and tunnels emerge, staged by very modern light effects.

Contemplating the strange Portmeirion

Visiting Wales is often synonymous with astonishment. You will experience it in the heart of Snowdonia Park where you love a surprising village, Portmeirion. Adventure in this almost supernatural architectural madness of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis. Built between 1925 and 1978, Portmeirion offers a walk at the foot of its cottages, palaces and Italian gardens. You can sit at one of the cafes and restaurants or book one hotel room for one night in this most unusual place.

2. Cardiff

The capital of Wales sounds like an obvious step during your British stay. Cardiff has many remarkable sites that it would be a shame to miss. Museums, bay and sport stadium will delight more than one traveler.

Let's also mention his famous castle! Since the Roman era, it has passed through the ages by subduing changes. The contrasts create a heritage gem. Sometimes austere, sometimes exuberant, the castle likes to impress its spectators who came to visit Wales.

3. The castle of Conwy

Go to the assault of one of the most frequented castles in the country, that of Conwy. The two monumental bridges at the foot of the fort are an introduction to the height of military construction. With its eight towers and crenate wall, the building stands proudly on the shores of the Conwy River. The work is undoubtedly imposed as a defensive asset. Built between 1283 and 1289 on the request of King Edward I, the castle today invites you to discover a spectacular view. From its ramparts you will see, among other things, Mount Snowdon.

4. Saint-David Cathedral

Make a crochet by Saint-David Cathedral, the oldest to visit in Wales. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, she paid tribute to St David, patron of the Gallois. The building perfectly reflects the Anglican style of the time with its square bell tower. Enter the cathedral for a moment of ecstasy. The oak ceiling was the subject of remarkable work.

Little treasure a few steps from the monument, the ruins of an episcopal palace. You can extend your discovery of religious architecture to the Cathedral of Gloucester, just as sumptuous.

5. Pembrokeshire National Coastal Park

Continue our tour of the parks to visit in Wales with the visit of Pembrokeshire. Here, the steep cliffs follow the golden beaches. To see them closely, follow the hiking trails. They're running around 300 miles!

On the one hand, the sea of Ireland caresses the shore, on the other side, the green hills let appear menhirs and chapels. Open the eye, dolphins and seals are sometimes seen. Also, think about making a stopover in Tenby, small port with colorful houses.

6. The castle of Caernarfon

We did not hide it from you, the castles to visit in Wales bloom. Also commissioned by King Edward I, Caernarfon Castle is one of the largest medieval buildings in Europe. Its massive look shows its defensive vocation, just like the castle of Conwy. Adventure in the multiple towers, on the ramparts and in the least corners of the building. He deserves his ranking in Unesco.

7. The Elan Valley

To visit Wales in all its facets, we advise you to follow the Tank Route. It winds the Elan Valley, with artificial lakes. These allowed to feed in water Birmingham , located more than 100 km. Surrounded by hills, the lakes unfold thanks to dams. Stop a moment to contemplate these breathtaking landscapes. Craig Coch’s dam is one of the most beautiful illustrations.

8. Llandudno

Llandudno is the most popular resort in the region. It is especially known for its long and beautiful throw at the end of which have been installed games. Victorian demeures and seafront participate fully in the beauty of the place. This stop is a popular destination in the summer. However, some may prefer Aberystwyth, known as the Biarritz of Wales.

9. The Abbey of Tintern

Romantic souls will not resist the discovery of the abbey of Tintern. This Cistercian masterpiece of the XIIth-XIIIth century is now in ruin. Break between its walls. The rays of the sun are cut off by the naves and arcs still standing. This gives the place a divine atmosphere. The abbey inspired many artists, such as the painter William Tuner. 50 km away, the Priory of Llanthony is just as lovely.

10. The castle of Penrhyn

A medieval castle? What a fool! The building was built only in the 1820-1830s on behalf of Georges Hay Dawkins-Pennant . This rich heir to slate quarries wanted to equip his new home with no less than 300 pieces. Luxurious and elegant, the castle is a pleasant excursion. To visit Wales without waiting.

11. Brecon Beacons National Park

One of the most beautiful places is nestled in the south of Wales! With its 1,350 km2, the park brings together a variety of spectacular landscapes. High mountains, waterfalls and prehistoric vestiges meet at the turn of the paths. Enveloped by the heather, they lead you to exceptional views. Small villages, like Hay-on-Wye, also constellate the Beacons Brecon.

12. Llangollen

Llangollen has a quiet little town with the sweet song of the Dee River. The best way to explore Llangollen is a boat ride on the canal. You will walk the brick houses to the flowery gardens and will sail on the Pontcysyllte, a bridge-canal on monumental pillars. Nearby, the castell Dinas Brân reveals its ruins overlooking Llangollen.

13. The Gower Peninsula

Known for its splendor, the Gower peninsula presents a mosaic of reliefs. Its 22 km of coasts do not lack the strengths between the vallons covered with landes and the wild coves. Special mention for Rhossili Bay. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in the United Kingdom. The Gower peninsula would be almost stolen by its rival, the Llyn peninsula.

14. The castle of Powis

Last castle of our selection, Powis is also one of the architectural treasures to visit in Wales. Elisabethan and Italian elements subtly marry the rose stone monument to the terraced gardens. You will be surprised by the magnificence of the place. The cherry on the cake? The collection Robert Clive , former governor of Bengale, gathers objects from India and the Far East.

15. The island of Anglesey

Take the sea towards Anglesey, a must-see in Wales. This bracket allows you to enjoy the sea views and historical sites without taking long distances. For example, Beaumaris Castle and Trwyn Du Lighthouse, your main appointments, are only 8 km away. The island is such a bubble out of time.

So, conquer? Therefore, go!