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2015

ExploreWales

Welsh heritage: Discover our mighty castlesActive Wales: Five ways to enjoy the great outdoors Plan a tour: Itinerary ideas to help you create the perfect holiday in Wales

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Front cover: Conwy Castle, North Wales This page: Green Bridge of Wales, Castlemartin, Pembrokeshire

Why Wales is differentWales is full of surprises. We don’t tend to

boast, but we’re happy to stand out. Let’s just say, we like to be different.

You’re sure to have heard of our castles. But did you know how many we have? Not dozens. Hundreds. You could visit a new one every day of the year, and still have more to see.

What about our landscapes? Our geography is magnificent, with beaches that could put many a Caribbean island to shame. Wild, rugged uplands with sparkling waterfalls separate us from England, but the train from London only takes just over two hours. And we’ve created a path that follows every inch of our coastline – the first of its type in the world.

You might know a bit about our language and our love of a pint. If you’ve tried our beer and cider, I’m sure you can say Iechyd da. But did you know that as well as cracking pubs, we have Michelin-starred restaurants and gourmet tasting menus to take your breath away?

Catch a folksong at a festival, an aria at the Welsh National Opera or a male voice choir in full voice and you’ll know we’re a musical nation. We may be an ancient people, but we also have modern ideas. We run ultra-green buses on recycled vegetable oil – and even hire out electric narrowboats.

To adventure seekers, Wales is a playground. Our walking, climbing, sailing and coasteering are second to none. So what are you waiting for? Why not be different too.

ExploreContents

2 Three of the best: wild places in Wales Visit our three national parks: Snowdonia, the Pembrokeshire Coast and the Brecon Beacons.

4 Welsh castles: power and might Gaze in wonder at our mighty castles. Plus: enjoy the tranquility of our churches, abbeys and shrines.

6 Wales Coast Path: walk this way Recharge your batteries along our breezy coastline.

8 Rural Wales: hillsides, hedgerows and country crafts Tap into our traditions in the glorious Welsh countryside.

10 Welsh food: from leeks to laverbread Tuck into local, seasonal produce at our best markets, pubs and restaurants.

Visit Wales cannot guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information in this publication and hereby disclaim any responsibility for any error, omission or misrepresentation. To the fullest extent permitted by law all liability for loss, disappointment, negligence or other damage caused by reliance on the information contained in this guide is excluded. You are advised to check all details and information with the business concerned before confirming a reservation. All rights reserved. Material in this publication must not be reproduced in any form without permission from the copyright owners – please contact Visit Wales. Opinions expressed in Explore Wales are not necessarily those of Visit Wales.

Explore Wales is published by Visit Wales, the Tourism and Marketing division of the Welsh Government ©2014.

Visit Wales, Welsh Government, QED Centre, Main Avenue, Treforest Industrial Estate, Treforest, Pontypridd CF37 5YR

Managing Editor Emma Gregg Printed by Stephens & George Ltd

Print ISBN: 978 1 4734 2545 3 Digital ISBN: 978 1 4734 2544 6

Crown copyright (2014) Visit Wales (WG22463)

Design & photography: Visit Wales Creative Services.

Other photography: © Andrew Hazard, courtesy of www.visitcardiff.com, Bradley White, Brecon Beacons Holiday Cottages, Cae Hir Gardens, Cardiff Castle, Veddw House copyright Charles Hawes, Crown copyright (2014) CADW, Crown copyright (2014) Welsh Government, David Gillett, © Jason Banbury, © Portmeirion, RHS / Jason Ingram, Skyscapes from Escape to Design, Steve Whitehead and www.Aberglasney.org. Icons made by Freepik, SimpleIcon, Yannick and OCHA from www.flaticon.com are licensed under CC BY 3.0.

Dylan Thomas itinerary quotation: from Reminiscences of Childhood – © The Trustees for the copyright of Dylan Thomas, 1943.

This publication is also available in Braille, large-format print, and/or audio from Visit Wales.

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Printed on recycled paper

12 Cardiff: our capital city There’s masses to enjoy, whatever the season.

14 Welsh gardens: a year of inspiration Colourful sights, wonderful scents.

16 Active Wales: five ways to enjoy the great outdoors Make the most of our fairways, hills and sparkling waters.

18 What’s on? Our pick of the year’s events.

26 Plan a tour. Itinerary ideas to help you create the perfect holiday in Wales.

44 Factfile. The practical stuff – climate, language, travel information and a map of Wales.

Rhossili and Worms Head, Gower Peninsula

Veddw House Garden, Monmouthshire

Beach huts at sunrise, Llanbedrog

Bardsey Island, Llyn Peninsula

Basket weaving materials

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Dark Skies, Brecon Beacons

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Dark skiesIf you’re in the Brecon Beacons National Park on a clear, moonless night, make sure you look up. In 2013, the entire park was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve, the first in Wales, in recognition of its low light pollution and superb stargazing conditions. “The best news is that other landscapes in the UK have now been inspired to develop Dark Sky status for their own area”, says Ruth Coulthard of the Brecon Beacons National Park Authority. “This has been a fantastic achievement for Wales.”

Three of the best: wild places in WalesOur three national parks – Snowdonia in North Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast in South West Wales and Brecon Beacons

in Mid Wales – contain precious landscapes, villages and heritage sites. They’re fascinating areas to explore.

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ExploreNational Parks

Haven for birdsImportant wildlife research takes place on Pembrokeshire’s islands, particularly Skomer, Skokholm, Ramsey and Grassholm. Overnight visitors on Skomer or Skokholm can get involved by taking part in bird counts and surveys. As Bee Büche, island warden for the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales on Skomer, explains: “Our long-term work with seabirds allows us to see what is happening in the wider marine environment. They’re good indicators of our planet’s health.”

Clear watersSnowdonia is a hub of green initiatives, from renewable energy to recycling. Thanks to a recent community campaign focused on creating a healthy future for our lakes, it’s now home to Wales’ first designated freshwater bathing lake, Llyn Padarn. “It’s so stunning, it has inspired much of my recent work”, says Snowdonia-based artist Vivienne Rickman Poole of this beautiful mountain lake. Wild swimmers like Vivienne enjoy the water at any time of year, but it’s warmest in August and September.

Together, our national parks protect an impressive 20 per cent of Wales including rare and delicate habitats. But they’re not fenced-off reserves – they’re open to visitors and are glorious places to make the most of the outdoors.

Snowdonia, a champion among parks, is dominated by Mount Snowdon (1,085m, 3,560ft), the highest peak in Wales. It also has one of Wales’ most beautiful waterfalls, Swallow Falls, and its largest natural lake, Llyn Tegid. The railway station perched on top of Mount Snowdon is the highest in Britain, the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways are the longest narrow-gauge steam railway lines in Europe. As if that’s not enough, the Coed y Brenin mountain bike trails are some of the best in the world.

Britain’s only coastal national park, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, is a collection of cliffs, beaches, coves and islands so special that National Geographic Traveler magazine in the US recently rated it number two in the world’s best coastal destinations. The many walkers, birdwatchers, coasteerers, surfers and kayakers who visit every year would doubtless agree. This spectacular 186 mile (299 km) coastline also forms part of the Wales Coast Path.

At less than 60 years old, the Brecon Beacons is the youngest National Park in Wales but, like the oldest, Snowdonia, it contains landscapes that were shaped in the Ice Age and moulded by nearly eight millennia of human activity. Grassy mountains, wooded valleys, reservoirs, canals and caves make this a superb region to explore on foot or by mountain bike, while market towns such as Crickhowell, Abergavenny and Hay-on-Wye add oodles of character.

Coasteering near St David’s , Pembrokeshire

Near summit of Snowdon, Snowdonia

Llyn Tegid, Snowdonia

Mountain biking, Brecon Beacons

For more informationwww.eryri-npa.gov.ukwww.pembrokeshirecoast.org.ukwww.breconbeacons.orgwww.visitwales.com/national-parks

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Great for GHOSTLY LEGENDSBodelwyddan CastleWatch out for weird apparitions, shadowy figures and unexplained voices at this castellated manor house. Even the tea shop has a ghost. �

Great for MAD EXTRAVAGANCECardiff Castle“Cardiff Castle is different because it spans 2000 years of history, from Roman remains to 20th-century wartime tunnels. The wonderfully opulent Victorian Gothic building designed by William Burges blows people away.” Matthew Williams, Head Curator, Cardiff Castle �

Great for MASSIVE PROPORTIONSCaerphilly Castle“What draws people to Caerphilly is its sheer scale and its focal point, the leaning tower. The castle is huge, the moat is huge. It’s really got that wow factor.” Tony Payne, Head Custodian, Caerphilly Castle �

Welsh castles: power and mightOur castles tell stories of mystery, conquest and wealth. With hundreds to choose from, where do you start? Here are a few highlights.

Great for LITERARY INSPIRATIONLaugharne CastleTo Dylan Thomas, this brooding castle, “brown as owls”, was the perfect antidote to writer’s block. He sometimes worked in its garden summerhouse. �

Great for ROMANTIC VIEWSCarreg Cennen CastleThe distinctive silhouette of Carreg Cennen inspired Britain’s favourite painter, JMW Turner, to sketch it from afar. Perched on a crag with sweeping views of the Carmarthenshire countryside, it’s one of the most spectacularly sited castles in Wales. �

Great for EXOTIC TREASURESPowis CastleHere you’ll find something extraordinary: Clive of India’s collection of priceless Indian artefacts, including rich textiles and opium pipes encrusted with rubies. �

Great for CREATURE COMFORTSCastell Deudraeth, PortmeirionBuilt in the style of a sturdy stone castle, this grand Victorian mansion is now a boutique hotel. In the conservatory restaurant, you’ll dine like a prince or a princess. �

Great for FAIRYTALE TOWERSCastell CochThe wealthy third Marquess of Bute and his architect William Burges, of Cardiff Castle fame, created this fanciful castle for fun. Don’t miss the fabulously ornate ceiling in Lady Bute’s bedroom. �

Great for FEARSOME BATTLEMENTSCaernarfon Castle“Caernarfon’s a classic. With massive stone walls, polygonal towers, arrow loops, spy holes and murder holes, at the time it was built it was every inch a display of modern military power.” Brian Thomas, Custodian, Caernarfon Castle. �

Great for MEDIEVAL MIGHTKidwelly Castle“Kidwelly’s got everything – steep earthworks, high stone walls, a great gatehouse and tall towers with stupendous views of the River Gwendraeth and beyond.” Sonja Brown, Head Custodian, Kidwelly Castle. �

More to exploreWales has hundreds of castles, churches, chapels, abbeys and World Heritage Sites to visit. For more ideas, turn to our Welsh castles and pilgrim trail itineraries on pages 38 and 42.

For more informationwww.bodelwyddan-castle.co.ukwww.cardiffcastle.com http://cadw.wales.gov.ukwww.portmeirion-village.comwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castlewww.pilgrims-way-north-wales.orgwww.visitwales.com/castles

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ExploreHeritage

Sacred spaces Centuries of Christian tradition have given Wales some fascinating places of worship. You could visit Llandaff, Brecon or St David’s to find inspiration in their cathedrals, meditate among the graceful abbey ruins at Tintern, Llanthony or Strata Florida, or seek out the remotest chapel in Wales, Soar-y-Mynydd in Ceredigion. Built in the Cambrian Mountains for local farmers and passing drovers, this delightful chapel stands on a winding lane amid grassy slopes and conifers. North Wales is dotted with gems, but few are as precious as Rhug Chapel near Llangollen, a treasure box of carving, painting and stained glass, or the bells of All Saints’ Church in Gresford – their tone is so pure, they’re known as one of the Seven Wonders of Wales. A looping trail leads all the way from St Winefride’s Well in Flintshire or St Asaph Cathedral in Denbighshire to Bardsey, the island of 20,000 saints. Follow this route, and you’ll be treading in ancient footsteps: medieval pilgrims counted three visits to Bardsey as valuable as a trip to Jerusalem.

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Wales Coast Path: walk this wayDotted with castles, beaches and coves, the Welsh coast is great walking country. It’s an 870-mile (1.400 km) long adventure, and everyone has their own favourite bit.

In 2012, when Wales became the first country in the world to have a public footpath running along its entire coast, something magical happened. The world’s walkers fell in love with it all over again.

Enthusiasts of all ages have enjoyed our breezy clifftops, woodlands and seaside promenades for longer than anyone can remember. These days, more and more people are revisiting old favourites, or exploring new stretches which used to be tricky to access, or didn’t quite join up.

Keen walker and fundraiser Zoe Wathen completed all 870 miles (1.400 km) of the Wales Coast Path in the summer of 2012, becoming the first woman to do so. Zoe’s not one to hang around – the challenge took her just 43 days – but she still found time to enjoy the scenery. The area around Strumble Head in Pembrokeshire

was a special favourite. “My only wish was to have longer to stroll through this incredible landscape”, she said.

In 2013, Peter Bray became the first over-75 year old to walk the entire path, taking 72 days. “My greatest memories are of isolated places”, he said. “The sheer beauty of watching dolphins while taking a rest at Mwnt in Ceredigion took my breath away!”

Of course you don’t have to tackle the whole path in one gulp. But whether you just go for a short stroll one afternoon or make coastal walking the main focus of your trip, we hope you’ll relish every step. www.walescoastpath.gov.ukwww.visitwales.com/wcp

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CoastExplore

Binoculars at the ready!Every walk on the Wales Coast Path has nature trail potential. You’re sure to see gulls wheeling overhead and may spot choughs, the crow-like symbol of the Llyn Peninsula Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or puffins, which breed on Wales’ offshore islands in summer. In warm weather, butterflies flutter over wildflowers such as honeysuckle, thrift and gorse. Keep checking out to sea, too, as seals, dolphins or porpoises often make an appearance.

Routes to rememberShort strolls – Looking for a taster? You’re spoilt for choice.

In Carmarthenshire, for example, you could walk from the Dylan Thomas Boathouse, past Laugharne Castle, to Salt House Farm – it’s less than two miles (3 km), with superb views across the River Taf along the way. On Anglesey, try the classic trail from Breakwater Country Park to South Stack Lighthouse, for crashing waves and maybe a glimpse of puffins.

Full day walks – The 14-mile (23 km) section of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast Path from Porthcawl to Aberthaw takes you past Iron Age hillforts, Norman castles, towering cliffs and sweeping dunes. You could spin it out over a couple of days or cover the whole thing in one. The Great Orme Circular Walk is a similar length, with wonderful sea views and the chance to see rare silver-studded blue butterflies and wild Kashmir goats. Or try the quiet shores between Aberystwyth and Llanrhystud in Ceredigion for a peaceful, 10.5 mile (17 km) walk.

Long-distance routes – Keen to get your teeth into something more challenging? It’ll take you three days to cover the 38-mile (61 km) Gower Coast Path between Mumbles and Crofty, or around seven days to stride the 84-mile (135 km) path around the wild, unspoilt Llyn Peninsula from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. With two or three weeks to spare, you could cover the entire Pembrokeshire Coast Path – a superbly varied journey through 186 miles (299 km) of breathtaking scenery.

South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey

Strumble Head, Pembrokeshire

Ceredigion Coast Path near LlanrhystudPenllech beach, Llyn Peninsula


A tractor is rumbling in the distance, the tempting aroma of bacon and eggs is wafting up from the kitchen and sunshine is flooding under your bedroom door. If that sounds like a wonderful way to wake up, you’ll love spending a few days on a Welsh farm.

Plenty of farms offer bed and breakfast, providing cosy farmhouse rooms and laying out a hearty country spread at the kitchen table – eggs and mushrooms collected that morning perhaps, with hand-baked bread and local butter. Others rent out self-catering cottages so that you can set your own timetable and relax, using the farm as a base from which to explore.

To immerse yourself fully in a rural way of life, you could book a working holiday. Farmstays offer the chance to watch and learn a little bit of everything from traditional dry stone walling to planting, picking and shearing. You’ll see sheepdogs in action and might even pick up a few words of Welsh.

Rural Wales: hillsides, hedgerows and country craftsFor a fresh-air holiday in the heart of Wales, book a stay on a farm. It’s a great way to bond with nature.

Get craftyTraditional country crafts are alive and well in Wales. Are you

good with your hands, or keen to try something new? At Corris Craft Centre near Machynlleth, you can get stuck into pottery painting, candle dipping or chocolate making, or learn how to build a beautiful piece of wooden furniture from reclaimed local materials.

The National Wool Museum in Ceredigion runs rug-making workshops using Welsh fleece and recycled textiles and specialist tutors all over Wales offer classes and holidays teaching traditional skills. You could learn how to spin wool at a hill farm in the Brecon Beacons, weave willow baskets in Carmarthenshire or carve Celtic lovespoons in South Wales.

Build a coracleFishermen paddled coracles made of willow and hide or canvas

on Welsh rivers and lakes from the days of the Celts right up to the 1900s. There are some great examples of these sturdy little boats at the National Coracle Centre at Cenarth Falls on the beautiful Teifi River in Carmarthenshire, and you can see them in action at the Cilgerran Coracle Regatta, held each August.

If you’re intrigued, why not try making one? In the Brecon Beacons National Park, Middle Ninfa Farm teaches you how, using willow grown on the farm. Ty-Mawr Farm hosts coracle-building courses, too, with the chance to test out your creation on Llangorse Lake.

Breakfast

Chairs, Corris Craft Centre National Coracle Centre

Tircue Beasthouse, Brecon

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CountrysideExplore

For more informationwww.farmstaywales.co.ukwww.corriscraftcentre.co.ukwww.museumwales.ac.uk/woolwww.craftcourses.comwww.coraclemuseum.co.ukwww.coraclesociety.org.ukwww.chapel-marketing.com/middleninfawww.lime.org.ukwww.visitclwydianrange.co.ukwww.welshbeer.comwww.breconcottages.comwww.visitwales.com/craft

Celebrate the seasons in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The Clwydian Range in North East Wales is a landscape shaped by ancient rural customs. It’s crisp in winter and fresh in spring, but the most beautiful time is late summer, when the purple heather is in bloom. Once the flowering season is over, you may see heather being burned on the hills. This autumn tradition regenerates the ancient moorlands, improves the grazing for sheep and creates a better habitat for birds such as the rare black grouse.

Hafod Brewery recently captured the flavour of the region in Moel Famau Ale, a dark beer made with Clwydian heather, with a distinctive smoky aroma. It’s one of several speciality beers they create using wild ingredients such as bilberries and gorse.

Clwydian Range AONB, North Wales

Tircue Beasthouse, Brecon


Dining outThere’s a healthy appetite for local food in Wales. Our

top chefs are giving familiar flavours such as Welsh lamb, juicy leeks and creamy potatoes a contemporary twist. We don’t like to show off, but let’s just say – several have picked up Michelin stars.

Fresh on the culinary scene are Coast in Pembrokeshire, a modern restaurant just metres from the sands of Coppet Hall, with unrivalled views of sea and sky. You’ll feel you’re lunching on the shore. Restaurant James Sommerin in Penarth, near Cardiff is a new gourmet hotspot with mouthwatering tasting menus.

We also have loads of informal places, from funky bistros to cosy cafés with tempting cupcakes, welshcakes and bara brith. Our countryside and coast are dotted with friendly pubs producing hearty fare, just the thing to enjoy with a pint of Welsh real ale beside a roaring fire. Try the Felin Fach Griffin near Brecon – it’s always scooping awards.

Our bed and breakfasts are also keen to impress. Some will offer a traditional miner’s breakfast of bacon, eggs, cockles and laverbread, a type of seaweed, as a scrumptious alternative to the Full Welsh of bacon and eggs with sausage, tomato, mushrooms and toast.

Welsh food: from leeks to laverbreadThe secret to fine cooking is all in the ingredients, they say. With Welsh black beef, succulent local lobster and artisan cheese to hand, our top chefs are spoilt for choice. Add cosy pubs, lively food festivals and farm shops to the mix, and it’s no wonder the food scene in Wales is simmering nicely.

Fresh and funWelsh farmers’ markets, farm shops and food festivals

are wonderful places to try local specialities: oysters on Anglesey and fish on the Llyn Peninsula, or honey in Conwy and cheese in Carmarthen.

The Abergavenny Food Festival, held after the harvest in September, is one of our biggest. “It’s a celebration of everything that’s good about farming”, says Chris Wardle, one of the founders. For two days, the market town buzzes with producers from all over Wales such as Blaenafon Cheddar Company, whose Pwll Mawr cheddar is matured at the bottom of the mineshaft at Big Pit National Coal Museum, master cidermakers Gwynt y Ddraig and award-winning shellfish specialists The Pembrokeshire Beach Food Company.

Stir it upIf you’re a foodie who likes getting stuck in, you

could join a workshop at Bodnant Welsh Food Centre, where crash courses in baking, canapé making and wine appreciation are on the menu. Or, for an interesting day out in the countryside, why not sign up for a foraging course with one of Wales’ many wild food experts? They’ll teach you how to identify edible berries, leaves and herbs, and show you how to turn them into delicious dishes.

Abergavenny Food FestivalBig Pit National Coal Museum, Blaenafon

Felin Fach Griffin, near Brecon

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ExploreFood

Try a Welsh classicYou haven’t really had tea in Wales until you’ve tried bara brith. The name means speckled bread and it’s a lightly spiced tea loaf with juicy dried fruit, served plain or with butter. Everybody’s mamgu (grandma) has a favourite recipe, and they all think theirs is the best! Here’s ours.

Ingredients450g/1lb self raising flour1tsp mixed spice175g/6oz muscovado sugar1 medium size free-range egg1tbsp orange zest

2tbsp orange juice1tbsp honey300ml/½pt cold tea450g/1lb mixed dried fruitextra honey for glazing

Soak the dried fruit in the tea in a covered bowl overnight. Preheat the oven to gas mark 3 / 160°C / 325°F. Mix the sugar, egg, juice, zest, honey and soaked fruit, sift in the flour and spice and stir well. Pour the mixture into a buttered loaf tin and bake for 1¾ hours or until golden and firm in the middle. Glaze with honey while warm.

For more informationhttp://coastsaundersfoot.co.ukwww.jamessommerinrestaurant.co.ukwww.eatdrinksleep.ltd.ukwww.abergavennyfoodfestival.comwww.chunkofcheese.co.ukwww.gwyntcidershop.comwww.beachfood.co.ukwww.bodnant-welshfood.co.ukwww.halenmon.comwww.cathryncariad.comwww.welsh-whisky.co.ukwww.visitwales.com/food-and-drink

Unforgettable flavoursOur farm shops and delis are stacked with gorgeous

treats, such as Halen Môn sea salt from Anglesey, which comes in delicate flavours such as oak-smoked and vanilla, or handmade chocolates from Cathryn Cariad in Snowdonia, which have scooped an armful of awards. Penderyn Single Malt Whisky from the Brecon Beacons National Park travels exceptionally well, and will bring back happy memories for weeks to come.

Fresh lobsters

Bara Brith

Welsh Honey Anglesey Oyster Festival

Cathryn Cariad

Halen Môn Sea Salt, Anglesey

Penderyn Distillery

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Heritage, green spaces and a buzzing cultural scene? Cardiff, our capital, offers all three – and much more besides. Voted the best British city to live in by residents of Europe’s top cities in 2014, it’s a cracking place to visit.

Historic but packed with modern attractions, this is a city on a high. Cardiff’s historic castle has timeless appeal and its contemporary landmarks, such as the Wales Millennium Centre and the Millennium Stadium, are world-class. Ready to let your hair down? Cardiff has traditional pubs, fun festivals and pop-up events with 21st century clout.

Foodies are catching on to Cardiff’s multicultural restaurant scene and shopaholics adore the blend of international boutiques and big name stores in the attractive, walkable city centre. For others, it’s the city’s unmistakable Welshness that’s the key to its appeal. From the warm smiles in the Victorian market to the glowing inscriptions on the Wales Millennium Centre, it’s a city of music, poetry and pride. www.visitcardiff.comwww.visitwales.com/cardiff

Cardiff: our capital cityNo matter what time of year you visit the Welsh capital, you’ll find masses of ways to enjoy the city to the full.

St David’s Day in St David’sOnce you’ve explored Cardiff, our capital – the largest city in Wales – why not visit the smallest? St David’s in Pembrokeshire is fascinating at any time of year. On 1st March, it hosts a festival in honour of St David, the Patron Saint of Wales. You can expect a holy procession, live bands, a traditional Welsh market and smiling kids dressed as daffodils.

Wales Millennium Centre


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ExploreCardiff

SUMMERCardiff FestivalSome festivals are over in a flash, but Cardiff’s lasts all summer. From parades, music and theatre to international yacht racing, there’s sure to be something tempting on while you’re here. www.cardiff-festival.com

Grand Medieval Mêlée at Cardiff CastleIn mid-August, Cardiff Castle is transformed into a medieval village and jousting arena where knights in armour cross swords and storytellers spin tales. All in all, it’s great entertainment. www.cardiffcastle.com ➋ Cardiff Bay boat tripCardiff Cruises sail through the barrage and out into the scenic Bristol Channel, while the Open Boat, Daffodil, has open sides for fantastic views and is great for a short trip on a sunny day.www.visitwales.com/cardiff-bay

SPRINGBirdwatching in the Cardiff Bay Wetlands ReserveBirdwatching, in a capital city? Our wetlands are home to buntings and warblers galore – in the early morning, you’ll hear them singing their socks off. www.cardiffharbour.com

Easter at Llandaff CathedralCelebrate the highlight of the Christian year at our striking Gothic cathedral. Inside, hovering over an unusual concrete arch, is Christ in Majesty, a statue created by Sir Jacob Epstein in the 1950s.www.llandaffcathedral.org.uk ➊ RHS Flower Show, CardiffFor three days in April, Bute Park bursts into bloom. There are show gardens, stalls to browse and prize-winning spring flowers to admire. It’s a great celebration of our horticultural heritage.www.rhs.org.uk

AUTUMNHot chocolate in the arcadesNip in the air? Sounds like the perfect excuse for a mug of something warming. Try Garlands in Duke Street Arcade, Coffee Barker in Castle Arcade or Wally’s Kaffeehaus in Royal Arcade. www.wallyskaffeehaus.co.uk ➌

St Fagans Food FestivalVisit St Fagans National History Museum in early September, when it hosts over 80 stalls selling Welsh whisky, locally-made sausages, handmade preserves and other tasty treats.www.museumwales.ac.uk/stfagans Rugby at the Millennium StadiumCardiff’s 74,500-seater stadium is the home of our national rugby union team and the beating heart of the city. During the 2015 Rugby World Cup, the atmosphere will be electric.www.millenniumstadium.com

WINTERSkating at Ice Arena WalesCardiff Bay’s spectacular new ice skating venue will open its doors in June 2015. As well as two rinks, there will be a 200-metre indoor ski slope with real snow. Time to practise your best moves.www.icearenawales.co.uk

Shopping in the city centre Hunting for gifts is a pleasure in Cardiff’s Edwardian and Victorian arcades. Lined with one-off shops, they’re just the place to tick things off your list. Who knows, you might find something unique for yourself, too. www.visitwales.com/cardiff-shopping ➍ Christmas carols on the quaysideHead down to Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay on a Thursday or Saturday in December to hear local choirs perform traditional and modern festive music. It’s magical. www.mermaidquay.co.uk

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SpringNothing says spring’s arrived in Wales

quite like our national flower, the daffodil. At the National Botanic Garden of Wales in Carmarthenshire, they’ll take your breath away. Visit in March and April, and there maybe 50,000 flowers – 50 varieties in all – nodding cheerfully in the breeze.

Bodnant Garden near Colwyn Bay was created by five generations of one family. May is a lovely time to visit – its bluebell woods look magical and its most famous feature, a magnificent laburnum arch, is coming into bloom. This tunnel of cascading golden yellow flowers is over 50 metres (164ft) long. You’ll also enjoy Glansevern Hall Gardens in Powys at this time of year. It has a romantic wisteria walk and a secluded riverside bird hide, perfect for spotting kingfishers.

More to exploreFrom National Garden Scheme properties to grand estates, Wales has hundreds of gardens to visit. For more ideas, turn to our Glorious gardens itinerary on page 33.

Welsh gardens: a year of inspirationIf you enjoy the sight of daffodils, the scent of roses or the magic of a sun-dappled bluebell wood, you’ll love our selection of seasonal highlights.

Autumn and WinterLate in the year, there’s still plenty

of colour in the hydrangea beds at Plas Newydd on Anglesey, where a magnificent creeper adorns the walls, and at Bro Meigan Gardens in Pembrokeshire, a peaceful haven which featured in the Independent on Sunday’s top ten secret gardens in Britain. The kitchen gardens at Aberglasney House and Gardens in Carmarthenshire are a riot of vegetables, herbs and ornamentals in autumn – in their 17th and 18th-century heyday, they produced enough to feed a thriving household.

Winter is a quiet time for our gardens, but the National Ivy Collection in the walled garden at Erddig near Wrexham always looks dramatic. Come back in summer, and you’ll be bowled over by the herbaceous borders, one of which is among the longest in Britain.

SummerCae Hir Gardens in Ceredigion are open

from Easter to October, but are in their prime in summer when their borders are in full bloom. Family run, this is a modest garden, full of ideas you could try at home.

For a complete contrast, try the formal gardens at Powis Castle in Welshpool, famous for their gigantic yews, dramatic terraces and Victorian orangery. They’re splendid in any season, with gardener-led tours in June and July.

Dyffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan are awash with colour in summer. They were created by globe-trotting Edwardian plant collector Thomas Mawson, with Pompeian, Mediterranean and Australasian garden rooms inspired by his travels. Veddw House Garden in Monmouthshire, which is only open in summer, gives the garden room idea a modern twist by edging them with a sculpted maze of yew and beech. The centrepiece, a reflecting pool, is at its best on calm, sunny days.

National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire

Bro Meigan Gardens, Pembrokeshire

GardensExplore

For more informationwww.gardenofwales.org.ukwww.bodnantgarden.co.ukwww.glansevern.co.ukwww.caehirgardens.comwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castlewww.nationaltrust.org.uk/dyffryn-gardenswww.veddw.comwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newyddwww.bromeigan.co.ukwww.aberglasney.orgwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddigwww.ngs.org.ukwww.visitwales.com/gardens

Good buys for the green-fingeredShopping for gardening books and gifts is part of the fun of visiting our gardens. At the National Botanic Garden of Wales, you’ll find Welsh gifts such as slate plant markers and sheep poo wrapping paper! Right next door to Bodnant Garden is a tempting garden centre and craft centre full of locally-made goodies, and Aberglasney House and Gardens hosts a sparkling Winter fair, packed with Christmas gifts, in early December.


Powis Castle, Welshpool

Dyffryn Gardens, Vale of Glamorgan

Bodnant Garden, Near Colwyn Bay

Cae Hir Gardens, Ceredigion


Play a round of golfYou’ve probably come across our big-hitter, The Celtic

Manor Resort, home of The 2010 Ryder Cup, and Royal Porthcawl, where The Senior Open Championship 2014 was held. But they’re just the start.

There are more than 200 Welsh courses to try, such as Royal St David’s, in the shadow of Harlech Castle, and Cardigan, high on a clifftop. Then there’s Nefyn & District, a unique championship course with a view of the sea from every tee.

“Golf in Wales has a special place in my heart and I know there are still many more experiences yet to be discovered. I’d encourage anyone to make the trip and get their own taste of golf as it should be.” Mark Rolfing, NBC TV sports commentator

Active Wales: five ways to enjoy the great outdoorsWith richly varied landscapes, quiet pathways and sea on three sides, Wales is a superb destination for outdoor activities. Our fairways, hills and waters invite you to explore.

Quiet shoresThe sea in Wales is warmer in September and October than in July. Why not dodge the school summer holidays and enjoy the coast in autumn instead?

For more informationwww.golfasitshouldbe.comwww.celtic-manor.comwww.royalporthcawl.comwww.royalstdavids.co.ukwww.cardigangolf.co.ukwww.nefyn-golf-club.co.ukwww.mbwales.comwww.visitwales.com/mountain-bikingwww.visitwales.com/fishingwww.walescoastpath.gov.ukwww.visitwales.com/walkingwww.visitwales.com/canoeNefyn & District Golf Club, Llyn Peninsula


ExploreActivities

Go fishingSettle down on a leafy riverbank, a glossy

lake or a breezy seashore, and listen. Hear that? It’s the sound of peace and quiet. Wales has plenty of great fishing spots to choose from. Some have Wheelyboats to allow wheelchair-users some hard earned time on the water.

Try the River Wye or the Severn for salmon, the Usk or the tumbling Teifi for wild brown trout or the Tywi for the best sea trout in Europe.

“I’m fortunate to travel the world with my fishing but there is no place like home. Wales has a wealth of fishing, be you a coarse, game or sea angler. The quandary is what to target next.” Steffan Jones, angling photojournalist and guide at anglingworldwide.com

Jump on a mountain bikeWales is making its mark as one of

Europe’s top mountain biking destinations. Champions fly in for the weekend just to tear down our state-of-the-art, graded forest trails.

The epic wilderness trails in Nant-yr-Arian and thrilling hand built tracks in Coed y Brenin will get your heart pounding, while the UK’s new purpose-built park, BikePark Wales, will have you grinning like crazy. There are easy, all-weather tracks for novices, too.

“One minute you’re smashing down a gnarly, eye-watering downhill, rocks flying off your tyres and your heart pounding. The next you’re hurtling onto a path bathed in sunlight. I love mountain biking in Wales.” Rachel Atherton, downhill mountain bike world champion

Take a walkFrom short towpath strolls to

mountain treks and energetic, cross-country hikes, Wales offers walkers the very best of everything.

We’re particularly proud of our Wales Coast Path, three National Parks and five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are also three National Trails and countless country paths to explore.

“Walking is one of my biggest passions and Wales is simply one of the best places to do it in the world. Just about every single square mile has got a great walk. I’ve done a lot of miles in North Wales, and of course the Beacons are wonderful. Then there’s Pembrokeshire, and Gower took my breath away.” Dan Snow, historian and TV presenter

Paddle, surf or sailCardiff, Swansea, Aberystwyth and

Pwllheli have welcoming marinas where sailors gather and beginners can learn the ropes. Our breezy bays and sheltered coves are great spots to set sail.

Into high-octane coastal sports? You’ll find kindred spirits in Wales. Kiteboarders and wakesurfers test their mettle off the Llyn Peninsula, world-class surfers flock to Gower and in-the-know sea kayakers are passionate about the Pembrokeshire coast.

“A kayak lets you see the countryside in a way you never could otherwise. You can do so many amazing coastlines in Wales; experiences that combine fun, friends, adrenaline and nature. It doesn’t get better than that.” Lowri Davies, European and British freestyle kayaking champion

Coed y Brenin, Snowdonia Fly fishing, Mid Wales Llangrannog, Ceredigion Sea kayaking, Pembrokeshire


Events Diary 2015It’s a big, busy year ahead, with Test Match cricket and World Cup rugby, festivals major and minor, parades and parties, and the kind of oddball events that we’re proud to say couldn’t possibly happen anywhere else but Wales (Llanwrtyd Wells, we’re looking at you). So here’s a taster of what’s happening in Wales in 2015.

February 6th FebruaryWales v England, CardiffThe Millennium Stadium hosts the opening fixture of the 2015 Six Nations rugby championship, as Wales take on England. This year’s clash is even more important than usual: Wales and England are drawn in the same Rugby World Cup group later this year.www.millenniumstadium.com ➋

3rd–13th FebruaryQuiltfest, LlangollenAnything and everything to do with quilt making: exhibitions, competition, demonstrations and workshops.www.quiltfest.org.uk ➌

5th–10th FebruaryAbertawe Festival for Young Musicians, SwanseaAn annual event comprising of competitive and non-competitive classes in Piano, Strings, Woodwind and Ensemble sections.www.afym.org.uk ➍

January 10th JanuaryWorld MTB Chariot Racing Championships & Saturnalia Beer Festival, Llanwrtyd WellsSaturnalia was the major mid-winter Roman festival. In this version, you’re encouraged to wear Roman dress, eat Roman food, quaff fine ales and party with friends. The chariot racing is just about the silliest thing you can do on a mountain bike – or rather a pair of them, harnessed to a chariot made from an old steel drum. It’s all huge fun. www.green-events.co.uk ➊

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EventsExplore

March 1st MarchSt David’s Day ParadeTo celebrate our Patron Saint’s day, there’s a big parade through the centre of Cardiff, and plenty of festivals, concerts, street parties and other special events all over Wales.www.stdavidsday.org ➎

1st MarchAnglesey Half Marathon, AngleseyThis popular annual race takes runners across the world famous Menai Bridge and follows the coast road to Beaumaris Castle and back.http://angleseyhalfmarathon.com ➏

14th MarchWales v Ireland, CardiffThe penultimate round of the Six Nations rugby championship, and what we confidently predict will be the Triple Crown decider… www.millenniumstadium.com

23rd–27th MarchZoom International Youth Film Festival, South WalesWales’s largest film event for young people has workshops, awards, glitzy evening screenings for all the family and short films from all over the world.http://zoomcymru.com ➐

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April 10th–12th AprilThe Laugharne Weekend, LaugharneLike the town itself, it’s quirkily brilliant, with the oddest (in a good way) assortment of literary and musical talent ever assembled in one place. Dylan Thomas would have loved it. www.thelaugharneweekend.com

17th–19th AprilRHS Flower Show, CardiffHeld in Bute Park against the backdrop of Cardiff Castle, the show provides an inspirational display of vibrant gardening, floral delights and expert advice.www.rhs.org.uk ➑

17th–19th AprilDark Skies Festival, Hay-on-WyeThe Brecon Beacons National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, and the perfect place to observe the night sky at any time of year. At this special event at Hay-on-Wye there’ll be displays, Solar Observing, a Planetarium experience, a visit to the Spaceguard Observatory (home to the National Near Earth Objects Information Centre), and night-time observations in the company of experts.www.darkskiesfestival.org ➒

22nd–25th AprilFocus Wales, WrexhamThis four-day annual festival showcases 150+ bands and stand-up comedians, and hosts a series of interactive sessions with music industry experts. www.focuswales.com

25th–26th AprilWonderwool Wales, Builth WellsA fantastic range of Welsh and British artisan products and an opportunity to meet the wonderful people who made them, showcasing the best in Welsh and British wool and natural fibres.www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk ➓

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May 1st–3rd MayMachynlleth Comedy Festival, MachynllethMachynlleth has grown into a major date on the comedy calendar, without losing its sense of fun and mischief. There’s a big, eclectic line-up in several quirky venues, served up with lashings of local beer and cider. No wonder performers love coming here. http://machcomedyfest.co.uk ⓫

1st–4th MayTalgarth Walking Festival, Brecon BeaconsWalkers of all ages and abilities can participate in guided walks in the unspoilt and stunning Brecon Beacons.www.talgarthwalkingfestival.org ⓬

2nd–4th MayLlandudno Victorian Extravaganza, LlandudnoThis graceful seaside resort returns to its roots to celebrate its Victorian heritage. An event packed full of steam engines, Victorian musical organs, vintage cars, costumes, curiosities and side shows.www.victorian-extravaganza.com ⓭

8th–10th MayTredegar House Folk Festival, NewportA rollicking weekend of international dance, music and song, held in this fine Charles II country mansion. Ceilidhs, clog-dancing will certainly feature, and the odd hurdy-gurdy cannot be ruled out. www.tredegarhousefestival.org.uk

16th–17th MayRoyal Welsh Agricultural Society Spring Festival, Builth WellsThe number one event for smallholding, gardening and sustainable living.www.rwas.co.uk/spring-festival

16th–17th MaySnowdonia Slateman Triathlon, LlanberisThere are two brutally brilliant triathlons this weekend: the Sprint and the Full. Or if you’re utterly rock-hard, complete both and earn the coveted title of Slateman Savage, you nutter. http://snowdoniaslateman.com

21st–24th MayAberystwyth Cycle Festival, CeredigionThis celebration of cycling attracts Britain’s best bikers. Visitors can watch all the on and off-road action and also experience the beautiful and undiscovered lanes of Ceredigion on their own bikes.www.abercyclefest.com

21st–31st MayHay Festival, Hay-on-WyeCalling it a ‘book festival’ doesn’t even come close to describing what goes on at this incredible gathering of the world’s greatest writers and thinkers. There are 900+ events over the ten days, featuring politicians and poets, scientists and comedians, novelists and astronauts, economists and ecologists, musicians and philosophers – all coming together to kick around big ideas that will change the way you think forever. The format couldn’t be simpler: you turn up a in a big tent and listen to these geniuses, and ask them questions. There’s also great food and drink, lovely scenery – and plenty of books, of course. www.hayfestival.com ⓮

24th MayWelsh Open Stoneskimming Championships, Llanwrtyd WellsStoneskimming is the ancient art of bouncing stones as far as possible across water. You can enter the fray or just enjoy other amusing stone-themed events. www.green-events.co.uk

24th–25th MayCowbridge Food & Drink Festival, CowbridgeThis award-winning festival sees the town at its most vibrant with a weekend of culinary excellence and all-round family entertainment. http://cowbridgefoodanddrink.org ⓯

25th–26th MayAbergavenny Steam & Vintage Rally, AbergavennyA marvellous day out for the whole family with steam and vintage vehicles, a children’s playground, food village, rural crafts and handicrafts.www.abergavennysteamrally.co.uk

25th–30th MayUrdd Eisteddfod,CaerphillyOne of the largest cultural youth festivals in Europe, around 100,000 come to watch more than 15,000 children and young people compete in song, dance, drama and design.www.urdd.org/eisteddfod

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JuneJune-AugustCardiff Festival, CardiffIt’s a long, hot summer of activity in the capital, with all kinds of entertainment – including gigs, theatre, street entertainers, food festival, powerboating – gathered under the festival banner. www.cardiff-festival.com

4th–6th JuneGreat Welsh Beer & Cider Festival, CardiffIn 2014, the festival assembled the biggest collection of proper Welsh beer and cider under one roof, and are promising even more this year. Iechyd da, we say.www.gwbcf.org.uk ⓰

5th–7th JuneAll Wales Boat Show, ConwyA celebratory festival of all water-based activities, from wakeboarding to luxury yachts. http://allwalesboatshow.com

6th JuneBig Welsh Trail, Coed Llandegla ForestA half marathon and 6.3 mile (10 km) route takes in some stunning and awe-inspiring trails through the 650 hectares of this beautiful forest.http://bigwelshtrail.com

13th–14th JuneMan v Horse, Llanwrtyd WellsMan has beaten horse just twice in the 34-year history of this 22 mile (35 km) race through gorgeous countryside. The jackpot rises by £500 each year until it is won; the last winning human, in 2004, scooped £25,000.www.green-events.co.uk ⓱

13th–14th JuneWelsh Three Peaks ChallengeCan you climb three of the most iconic mountains in Wales – Pen y Fan, Cadair Idris and Snowdon – in a single weekend?www.snowdon500.co.uk

14th JuneVelothon Wales, CardiffAround 15,000 professional and amateur cyclists will take to the hills in the biggest cycling event ever held in Wales. There are 31 mile (50 km) and 75 mile (120 km) routes, which begin and end in Cardiff. www.velothon-wales.co.uk

14th–21st JuneCardiff Singer of the World, CardiffThis world-class competition has helped to launch the careers of some of the finest classical singers around (including, back in 1989, both Bryn Terfel and Dmitri Hvorostovsky).www.bbc.co.uk/cardiffsinger

26th June–5th JulyUnity Festival, CardiffUnity showcases all kinds of inclusive and disability arts, theatre, dance, music, family shows and comedy. Moreover, it’s simply fantastic entertainment of the highest quality.www.hijinx.org.uk/unity

27th June–5th JulyPembrokeshire Fish Week, PembrokeshireThis whopper of a festival has more than 250 events celebrating the county’s great seafood and beautiful coastline. Learn to fly-fish, go crab-catching, tuck into the freshest seafood, get digging in a sandcastle challenge, and much more.www.pembrokeshirefishweek.co.uk⓱

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July2nd–5th JulyNorth Wales Bluegrass Festival, ConwyThe UK’s longest-standing bluegrass festival brings in talent from all over the world, including its spiritual home, Appalachia. It’s a fascinating genre, with its earliest roots in British folk, filtered through African-American, gospel and jazz influences.www.northwalesbluegrass.co.uk

3rd–5th JulyInternational Ceramics Festival, AberystwythThis three-day festival has grown to become the UK’s leading ceramics event. Have a smashing time. Actually, on second thoughts, don’t…www.internationalceramicsfestival.org ⓲

3rd–5th JulyLong Course Weekend, TenbyPembrokeshire plays host to one of the toughest triathlons in Wales. Half the competitors don’t finish – and those that do represent the cream of triathlon talent in the UK and the world.http://longcourseweekend.com

4th JulyBritish Speedway Grand Prix, CardiffThe Millennium Stadium hosts its 14th consecutive FIM British Speedway Grand Prix.www.speedwaygp.com

7th–11th JulyLlangollen International Eisteddfod, LlangollenAn extraordinary cultural celebration featuring 4,000 competitors from around the world in song, dance and music, and performances by the biggest singing stars. A Fringe event has also sprung up, taking place in the town a week later.http://international-eisteddfod.co.uk ⓳

8th–12th JulyInvestec Test Match, CardiffCardiff’s SWALEC Stadium hosts the opening Ashes test match against Australia, as it did in 2009 when England’s last pair James Anderson and Monty Panesar clung on for a famous draw.www.ecb.co.uk

10th–12th July Wakestock, AbersochEurope’s largest wakeboard music festival with free-to-watch wakeboarding by day and music by night.www.wakestock.co.uk ••

10th–12th July Vintage Festival 2015, Pembrey Country ParkAn amazing array of vintage vehicles and their owners, dressed to impress in 1940s and 50s style, with live music, makeovers, and vintage fun fair at this unique coast-and-countrysidepark. www.facebook.com/vintagefunfestival

20th–23rd JulyRoyal Welsh Show, Builth WellsThis huge agricultural show isn’t just about cows and combine harvesters. With live music, stunt displays, crafts stalls, great food and a host of other attractions, you don’t have to be a farmer (or Welsh) to love it.www.rwas.co.uk ••

24th–26th JulyBig Cheese Festival, CaerphillyA celebration of the history, heritage and culture of Caerphilly with an extravaganza of street entertainers, living history encampments, music, dance, falconry, fire eating and much more, all set around Caerphilly Castle, one of the largest in Europe.www.visitcaerphilly.com/events ••

August1st–8th AugustNational Eisteddfod of Wales, Welshpool Wales’s biggest arts festival is also its oldest, tracing its roots back to the year 1176. It’s an eclectic mix of old and new, traditional and modern, and a celebration of Wales’s culture and language. You don’t have to speak (or be) Welsh to enjoy the spectacle of an old language having very contemporary fun.www.eisteddfod.org.uk

7th–9th AugustBrecon Jazz, BreconTo give you an idea of the calibre of acts at this top jazz festival, Burt Bacharach and Gregory Porter were the stars last year. Who will it be this year?www.breconjazz.org ••

11th–12th AugustAnglesey County Show, HolyheadThe largest two-day agricultural show in Wales has more than 350 trade stands, entertainment marquee and country pursuits.www.angleseyshow.org.uk

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15th AugustPride Cymru, CardiffThe city-centre Parade kicks off a day of live music that ends with an unmissable After Party. It’s the biggest and best LGBT bash in the calendar. www.pridecymru.co.uk ••

15th AugustRace the Train, TywynThe narrow-gauge Talyllyn Railway is the pace-maker at this fabulous multi-terrain race. There are several options, from the Toddlers Trot (a lap of the field) to the full 14 miles (23 km), which the train can usually manage in about 1hr 48 mins. www.racethetrain.com

20th–23rd AugustGreen Man Festival, CrickhowellGreen Man was founded in 2003 as a one-day campfire folk event, and still stands out proudly in the left-field. It’s bigger – around 20,000 capacity these days – but still inhabits its own glorious alternative universe. The setting is gorgeous, and there’s the sheer diversity of entertainment: ten areas, 1,500 performers, 24-hour events, comedy, poetry, literature, wildlife walks – and some of the best music around, from cutting-edge contemporary stars to venerable legends.www.greenman.net ••

28th–30th AugustWales Senior Open, Celtic Manor Resort, NewportA host of fine golfers take on the challenge of The 2010 Ryder Cup Course, at The Celtic Manor Resort.www.celtic-manor.com

29th AugustWorld Bog Snorkelling Championship, Llanwrtyd WellsNow in its 30th year, daring competitors battle it out in a 60-metre (196ft) trench cut into a peat bog for the coveted title of World Champion Bog Snorkeller. www.green-events.co.uk ••

September3rd–6th SeptemberFestival No. 6, PortmeirionTruly a festival unlike any other, No. 6 is an intimate, bespoke weekend of music, arts and culture, set in and around the most stunning festival site you will ever see. Pet Shop Boys, Manic Street Preachers, Beck and My Bloody Valentine were memorable headliners in recent years.www.festivalnumber6.com ••

13th SeptemberIronman Wales, PembrokeshireA 2.4-mile (3.8 km) swim, a 112-mile (180 km) cycle, followed by a marathon, with only 17 hours to complete it all. Just an average Sunday really… www.ironmanwales.com ••

18th September–31st OctoberRugby World Cup, CardiffThe Millennium Stadium plays host to eight fixtures in this year’s Rugby World Cup, including two quarter finals.www.rugbyworldcup.com

19th–20th SeptemberAbergavenny Food Festival, AbergavennyOne of the biggest events in the UK foodie calendar, with local produce and international delicacies, celebrity chefs, master classes, tastings and street stalls all on the menu. www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

19th–21st September Guided Birding Weekend, Skomer IslandSkomer is one of the most precious places for wildlife we have, with internationally-important colonies of birds, surrounded by the crystal waters of a marine reserve. This three-night stay puts visitors in the heart of this ecological paradise.www.welshwildlife.org

25th–27th SeptemberElvis Festival, PorthcawlElvis lives, thanks to the thousands of fans and the tribute artists who attend this annual gathering of blue suede shoes, Vegas jumpsuits, and whopping sideburns.www.elvies.co.uk ••

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OctoberOctoberGwledd Conwy Feast, ConwyThis weekend festival is one of the biggest celebrations of the music, art and food of Wales. The quayside, the castle and medieval streets burst with flavours, sounds and sights.www.conwyfeast.co.uk

7th–11th OctoberIris Prize Festival, CardiffCardiff’s international gay and lesbian short film prize welcomes the best new filmmaking talent to the capital.www.irisprize.org

10th–11th OctoberAnglesey Oyster & Welsh Produce Festival, Trearddur BayIt started as an informal event where locals would gather to eat oysters and get merry, but now shows off all kinds of excellent local produce.www.angleseyoysterfestival.com

DecemberThroughout DecemberSanta Steam SpecialsFather Christmas is the VIP passenger on weekend rides on Wales’s narrow-gauge Great Little Trains.www.greatlittletrainsofwales.co.uk

6th–7th DecemberBlackwood Christmas Market, BlackwoodThe town centre comes to life with stalls along the high street, funfair rides and traditional entertainment. With real reindeer visiting, and Santa will certainly be putting in an appearance! www.visitcaerphilly.com

11th DecemberWrexham Christmas Market, WrexhamOne of the most eagerly awaited events in the town’s calendar, attracting thousands of shoppers each year, with music and entertainment throughout the day.www.wrexham.com

13th–14th DecemberCaerphilly Medieval Christmas Fayre, CaerphillyA mix of farmers’ stalls, continental market stalls and genuine food and craft producers, with musical entertainment, children's workshops, street theatre and Santa’s grotto. Look out too for the annual River of Light Parade in the town centre. www.visitcaerphilly.com ••

31st DecemberNos Galan Road Races, Mountain AshThis annual race commemorates the 18th-century Welsh runner Guto Nyth Brân (who was supposedly so quick, he could blow out his candle and be in bed before it was dark). There are races for all abilities, street entertainment, funfair and fabulous firework display.www.nosgalan.co.uk

November12th–15th NovemberWales Rally GB, DeesideThe British leg of the FIA World Rally Championship has been based in Wales since 2000. This year it’s Flintshire’s turn to host the world’s elite drivers as they take on tough forestry tracks in the Welsh mountains, and thrill the crowds at special stages.www.walesrallygb.com

13th November–5th JanuaryCardiff Winter Wonderland & Swansea Waterfront WonderlandIce-skating and rides, mulled wine and roasted chestnuts ... feel-good festivities in Cardiff and Swansea’s Christmas villages.www.cardiffswinterwonderland.com www.swanseachristmas.com ••

All information is correct as we go to press, but plans can change, so do check the websites for up-to-date information.

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Wales doesn’t sit still – and neither, we suggest, should you. Not for too long, anyway. With centuries of history, amazing scenery and fascinating regional traditions to discover, you’re sure to want to explore.

Even the speediest mover couldn’t squeeze all our attractions and events into a single trip, and we don’t think you should even try. Instead, save something for next time. We have intriguing islands, fascinating towns, hundreds of castles and enough woodlands, hills and beaches to fill a lifetime of adventures.

Not sure where to start? The following pages can help. We’ve created a few itineraries to inspire you and suggested websites where you can find out more.

The rest is up to you. Pick a theme, pack your things, and go. Let’s see where the road takes you. Daily mileage quoted is an approximate guide. www.theaa.com

Plan a tour

Wye Valley

Aberaeron, Ceredigion Ty Siamas, Dolgellau Three Cliffs Bay, Gower PeninsulaWales Coast Path, Anglesey

St David’s Cathedral, Pembrokeshire

Ruthin Craft CentreNew Quay, CeredigionMonmouthshire and Brecon Canal

WalesExplore

www.visitwales.com 27

Criccieth Castle, North Wales

Elan Valley, Mid Wales Harlech beach, GwyneddSea kayaking, Pembrokeshire

Bryngarw Country Park, Bridgend Snowdon Mountain Railway, SnowdoniaDylan Thomas Boathouse, Laugharne

Cardiff Bay


DAY ONE: St Fagans, Swansea and GowerOnce you’ve sampled a little of Cardiff (see our Cardiff

itinerary for suggestions) head out of the capital via St Fagans National History Museum, which explores how people in Wales have lived, worked and forged traditions over the centuries. Entrance is free. Then head west to Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, where the Dylan Thomas Centre offers a glimpse of the life and times of the city’s most famous literary son.

Dylan Thomas loved the wild, breezy coastal countryside of the Gower Peninsula, and we’re pretty sure you will too. Declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956, it’s superb for walking and birdwatching, with beaches so impressive they keep popping up in Top Ten lists. Take a stroll to Worm’s Head on the eastern tip or just enjoy the scenery over a cool drink – the view from the Worm’s Head Hotel is second to none. Overnight: Swansea or Gower. 61 miles/98 km

DAY TWO: Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Gaze in wonder at the ruins of Carreg Cennen, one of the most dramatically sited castles in Wales, high on a crag above the River Cennen. Then continue through rural Carmarthenshire to Pembrokeshire, a pretty county with its toes in the sea and holidays on its mind.

Home to the UK’s only coastal national park, Pembrokeshire is watersports central and great for just pulling off your shoes and paddling. Ramsey Island, has choughs and Atlantic grey seals – you can take a guided boat trip to or around the island any day of the week, sea conditions permitting.

If you’d rather stay on dry land, there’s the superbly scenic Pembrokeshire Coast Path to discover on foot, and the charming little cathedral city of St David’s to explore. Tenby is adorable, with colourful Victorian houses and a harbour beach that’s ranked the most beautiful in Europe. Overnight: Saundersfoot, Tenby or St David’s. 100 miles/160 km

DAY THREE: CeredigionAs you travel north-east from Pembrokeshire along the

Ceredigion coast, the colourful Georgian harbour town of Aberaeron makes an attractive stop for coffee or lunch. Don’t miss the award-winning honey ice cream at The Hive, a café-restaurant on the quayside. After that, visit nearby Llanerchaeron, a modest but handsome villa on a gentleman farmer’s estate that’s survived virtually unaltered for years. Take a look around the buttery, salting house and kitchen garden to be transported back to bygone times.

Next, press on to the university town of Aberystwyth, home to the fabulous Aberystwyth Arts Centre, one of the largest in the UK. It comprises a theatre, concert hall and cinema as well as galleries, a café, bars and shops, so it always has plenty going on. Overnight: Aberystwyth. 79 miles/127 km

Wales in a weekSo you’d like to sample the best of every region, but you only have seven days to squeeze it all in? Start here.

Get the knowledgeTo zoom in on a particular interest during in your week in Wales, hire an expert. Wales has qualified and experienced specialist guides who can create tailor-made trips focusing on genealogy, botany, art and crafts, or whatever else grabs you. www.walesbestguides.com

St Fagans National History Museum, Cardiff Aberaeron, Ceredigion Portmeirion, SnowdoniaTenby, Pembrokeshire

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Plan it all outwww.museumwales.ac.uk/stfaganswww.dylanthomas.comwww.visitswanseabay.comwww.thewormshead.co.ukhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/Carreg-cennen-castlewww.pembrokeshirecoast.org.ukwww.ramseyisland.co.ukwww.thehiveaberaeron.comwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/llanerchaeronwww.aberystwythartscentre.co.ukwww.mbwales/coed_y_breninwww.eryri-npa.gov.ukwww.portmeirion-village.comhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/caernarfon-castlewww.nationatrust.org.uk/bodnant-gardenwww.bodnant-welshfood.co.ukwww.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.ukwww.three-tuns.comwww.breconbeacons.orgwww.wyevalleyaonb.org.ukwww.abergavennyfoodfestival.comwww.parvafarm.comhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/tinternabbeyhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/chepstow-castle

DAY FOUR: Snowdonia National ParkTempting though it may be to linger in Ceredigion’s

quiet countryside, keep going – today you’re heading for Snowdonia, and you won’t want to miss a minute. Once you’re in the national park, choose your adventure. Go mountain biking in Coed y Brenin Forest Park, or practice your landscape photography by a mountain lake. At lunchtime, visit Portmeirion, a village resort designed in the 1920s in the style of a Mediterranean coastal retreat, with a pretty tower and colourful plazas.

Save time in the afternoon to visit Caernarfon’s mighty castle, then bowl around the coast to spend the night by the sea in North Wales’ arty Victorian resort, Llandudno.Overnight: Llandudno. 100 miles/160 km

DAY SIX: Hay-on-Wye and Brecon Beacons National Park

Today, continue through the rolling green pasturelands of Powys to Hay-on-Wye, a one-of-a-kind little town where the castle’s a bookshop, the cinema’s a bookshop, the fire station and even the alleyways are bookshops. Here and in Clyro, just a mile away, there are gorgeous antique shops and galleries to browse. For lunch, try the 16th-century Three Tuns, the oldest pub in Hay.

Hay makes a great launch pad for a trip into the Brecon Beacons National Park. With softer landscapes than Snowdonia and beautiful waterfalls, it’s very popular for short walks, cycling, caving, paragliding and gliding. But the possibilities don’t stop there. You could explore the towns of Brecon and Crickhowell or go boating on Llangorse Lake.

If you’re here in on a clear night, be sure to look up. The national park is an International Dark Sky Reserve – the fifth in the world and the first in Wales – with minimal light pollution and staggering views of the constellations. Overnight: Hay-on-Wye, Brecon or Crickhowell. 68 miles/109 km

DAY SEVEN: Abergavenny and the Wye Valley Head south-east to Abergavenny, a hub of South Wales’ effervescent food scene with a lively food festival in September and a traditional market on Tuesday's, Friday's and Saturday's, all year round. If you’ve waited until now to treat yourself to a spectacular lunch, you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice – this region is dotted with famous eateries which will blow you away. Full and happy, travel down the Wye Valley – one of Wales’ Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – to stretch your legs beside the River Wye, visit the vineyard and sample the Welsh wines at Parva Farm and admire the romantic ruins of Tintern Abbey and Chepstow Castle. Overnight: Tintern or Chepstow. 40 miles/ 64 km

DAY FIVE: Llandudno to the Elan ValleyStart in the Conwy Valley at the delightful Bodnant

Garden, famous for its magnificent flowering shrubs and laburnum arch, and Bodnant Welsh Food Centre, a welcoming new farm shop and eatery in a renovated 18th-century farm.

Then travel through agricultural north-east Wales to Llangollen, a busy little place with plenty of character. Set on the River Dee, Llangollen is a heritage transport crossroads, with a steam railway and an impressive canal. Don’t miss the chance to cross the magnificent Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on foot or, even better, by narrowboat. From here, travel south to the peaceful reservoirs and forested slopes of the Elan Valley.Overnight: Rhayader. 120 miles/193 km

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen Canal

Hay-on-Wye

Chepstow Castle


Get your bearingswww.visitcardiff.comwww.stdavidscardiff.comwww.crumbskitchencardiff.co.ukwww.museumwales.ac.uk/cardiffhttp://bute-park.comwww.cardiffcastle.comwww.millenniumstadium.com

www.makersguildinwales.org.ukwww.doctorwhoexperience.comwww.wmc.org.ukwww.fishat85.co.ukhttp://purplepoppadom.comwww.cardiffbus.comhttp://cardiffwaterbus.com

DAY ONE: City centre stroll, National Museum, Bute Park and Cardiff Castle

Why not start with a stroll around the centre? If your walk turns into a shopping trip – well, we can’t say we blame you. Around St David’s Dewi Sant, swish, modern department stores and big-brand boutiques meet charming Victorian and Edwardian arcades.

For lunch on the run, there’s plenty of choice, from cafés and pubs to market stalls. Vegetarians and health food fans can’t go wrong at Crumbs, set on an elegant curve of Morgan Arcade, while The Plan, a few strides away, is unbeatable for connoisseur coffee.

Next, dose up on fine art by Cézanne, Degas, Monet and Manet at the National Museum Cardiff, followed by a reviving drink in the museum’s Oriel Fach coffee shop and a relaxing wander in Bute Park, a glorious public garden that’s recently been lovingly restored.

The park’s views of Cardiff Castle are sure to tempt you in for a closer look. But you might want to wait until evening, when you can round off your stay in the capital with a high-spirited Welsh banquet in the undercroft of the castle’s ludicrously flamboyant Palace, complete with entertainment from jovial young performers. Overnight: Cardiff.

DAY TWO: Millennium Stadium and Cardiff Bay

After a full-on first day, allow yourself a lazy breakfast then make a pilgrimage to the Millennium Stadium. It’s open for tours every day. You can run down the tunnel, imagining what it feels like to be cheered by 74,500 fans awaiting the pain and glory of rugby at its best.

Next, take the waterbus to Cardiff Bay, where there’s a fascinating mixture of architecture and much to explore. Try Craft in the Bay for contemporary Welsh textiles, sculpture and jewellery, visit the Doctor Who Experience for all the sci-fi fun you can handle or make your way to the Cardiff Bay Barrage to soak up the views.

Come early evening, sample Welsh cuisine at Ffresh in the splendid Wales Millennium Centre before enjoying opera, ballet or classical music.

Alternatively, you could head back into town to grab a bite at casual-but-cool Fish at 85 on Pontcanna Street or treat yourself to some mind-bendingly imaginative Asian fare at Purple Poppadom on Cowbridge Road East. Hungry for more action? You could check out one of many live music venues in the city centre and dance the night away. Overnight: Cardiff Bay.

48 hours in CardiffAll set for an action-packed couple of days in the Welsh capital? Let’s make it a visit to remember.

Stretch your legsCardiff is one of Europe’s most walkable capitals – bring some comfortable shoes and make the most of it!

Cardiff Castle

Dr Who Tardis, Cardiff Bay

Cardiff shopping

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Eat your way around the regionwww.foodnorthwales.co.ukwww.hawardenestate.co.ukwww.caffiflorence.co.ukwww.foodtrail.co.ukwww.ruthincraftcentre.org.ukwww.tyddynllan.co.ukwww.moldfoodfestival.co.ukwww.visitclwydianrange.co.uk

DAY TWO: Denbigh, Ruthin and Tyddyn LlanDenbigh, famous for its castle, is a great place

to pick up the Clwydian Range Food Trail. It’ll lead you to the award-winning Williams Butchers, for locally reared meat, the thoroughly tempting Dragon Bakery, for scrumptious pastries and secret-recipe fudge, and the positively wicked Denbigh Chocolate Shop for – well, you can probably guess.

If you love old market towns, continue the Food Trail to Ruthin. A jumble of black-and-white timbered buildings makes St Peter’s Square one of the most attractive spots in Denbighshire. Its most famous landmark, The Myddelton Arms, dates back to the mid-1660s. You’ll find some great delis and bakeries dotted around town.

To tap into Ruthin’s arty side, head north of the old centre to the smart, modern Ruthin Craft Centre. It has galleries, a shop selling covetable hand-made jewellery, ceramics and textiles and an airy, contemporary café.

Ruthin has several places where you can eat well and sleep comfortably. For a real gastronomic treat, continue south to Llandrillo. Tucked away in a tree-lined garden on the edge of this peaceful hamlet is Tyddyn Llan, a very special country house restaurant with rooms.

Chef Bryan Webb produces simple but elegant dishes and tasting menus that change daily, using seasonal ingredients such as game, leeks and freshly picked fruit. It’s a formula that works – and he has a Michelin star to prove it. Overnight: Llandrillo or Corwen. 25 miles/40 km

DAY ONE: Hawarden, Mold and the Clwydian Range

Let’s start at the historic village of Hawarden, between Chester and Mold. The award-winning Hawarden Estate Farm Shop is the perfect place to gather provisions. It’s famous for its huge, handmade sausage rolls and velvety Welsh Beef and Black Beer Pie.

From here, continue west. A town called Mold may not seem the obvious gourmet destination, but this is a brilliant place to find fresh Welsh produce such as artisan yoghurt, and honey from local beekeepers.

By now, you should have the makings of a delicious picnic. Loggerheads Country Park in the Alyn Valley, west of Mold, is a delightful place to enjoy it. From bluebells in spring to frosty winter walks, it’s pretty in every season. There’s also a great café here, Caffi Florence, serving local, fresh and delicious fare.

To work off your lunch, head higher into the hills. From Bwlch Pen Barras, a broad footpath leads to the heather-clad summit of Moel Famau (554m, 1817ft), the loftiest point in the lovely Clwydian Range. Overnight: Denbigh. 28 miles/45 km

Bite into North East WalesThe market towns dotted around the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley have food trails and farm shops galore. Here are a few highlights.

Honey buzzCut-comb heather honey from Clwydian Range bees is a special delicacy that’s only available in autumn. You’ll find it at the Clwydian Range Centre in Loggerheads Country Park and at the Mold Food and Drink Festival in September.

Clwydian Range, Denbighshire

Tyddyn Llan, Llandrillo

Tasting menu


Pick up the trailwww.welshwildlife.orgwww.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk www.welshwildlife.org/visitor-centres/the-welsh-wildlife-centrewww.cbmwc.orgwww.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/y/ynys-hir

www.montwt.co.uk/cors-dyfiwww.gigrin.co.ukwww.breconbeacons.orgwww.breconbeacons.org/monmouthshire-brecon-canal

DAY ONE: PembrokeshireIf you only have time to visit one Welsh

island, make it Skomer. Day trips by boat run daily from April to September, weather permitting. The short crossing from Martin’s Haven is a pleasure on a fine day, with gulls wheeling overhead. Step ashore and you’re in another world – one ruled by seals and seabirds. In the breeding season, you’ll see razorbills, guillemots, fulmars, gulls and puffins galore. The Welsh Wildlife Trust has simple hostel-style rooms for those wishing to stay. Book in advance. Overnight: Broad Haven, Dale or Skomer.

DAY FOUR: Brecon Beacons National Park

The Brecon Beacons National Park is home to one of the world’s oldest and prettiest of horse breeds, the Welsh mountain pony, which have grazed the uplands since Roman times and roam wild in the national park to this day. Keep your eyes open, and you may spot other rare mammals in the park – otters and water voles flourish in its waterways, while badgers, bats, hares and dormice hide in the woodlands and hedgerows. Take a narrowboat trip along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and you may see kingfishers, dragonflies and rare aquatic plants.Overnight: Brecon, or Abergavenny. 45 miles/72 km

Wildlife trail With a fantastic variety of habitats, Wales is a wildlife hotspot. Every season brings something new, but the best time to come is April to September – especially early summer, when the offshore islands are crammed with breeding birds.

Ospreys and kites: flying highWe take conservation pretty seriously in Wales. And we’re very proud of our birds. Red kites were down to less than 30 breeding pairs a couple of decades ago, but with careful management and protection, they’re back to well over 300 pairs. When ospreys started breeding here ten years ago, we were ecstatic. They’re the kings of the skies, with a dynasty that’s going from strength to strength.

DAY TWO: Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion

Make an early start, and pick a stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – St David’s Head, for example. Rich in wildflowers and insects, you’ll find many birds singing and foraging here in the hours after dawn. Next, head for the inspiring Welsh Wildlife Centre, which overlooks the wildlife-rich Teifi Marshes and has an airy café serving locally-sourced food, then travel along the coast into Ceredigion. New Quay, home to Dylan Thomas in the 1940s, is one of the UK’s best spots to scan the sea for bottlenose dolphins, either from the harbour or by taking a Dolphin Survey Boat Trip. You’re also likely to see porpoises, Atlantic grey seals, herring gulls and guillemots.Overnight: New Quay or Aberaeron. 60 miles/97 km

DAY THREE: Mid WalesThe Dyfi Valley between Aberdovey and

Machynlleth is great for birds, especially raptors. From the hides at RSPB Ynys-Hir Nature Reserve, you’ll see wetland birds and warblers, while the Dyfi Osprey Project’s osprey love-nest at Cors Dyfi Nature Reserve can be viewed through scopes, binoculars or live on screen. To see red kites in close up, visit the feeding station at Gigrin Farm near Rhayader.Overnight: Rhayader or Builth Wells. 80 miles/129 km

Atlantic puffin

Welsh mountain ponies, Brecon Beacons

Skomer Island, Pembrokeshire

Dolphin watching, New Quay

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DAY ONE: Bryngarw Country Park, Bridgend, and Margam Country Park, Port Talbot

Bryngarw Country Park's 120-acre estate on the River Garw has walking and cycling trails. In spring, bluebells bloom under its ancient oaks, come summer, honeybees buzz over the wildflower meadows and in autumn, maples lend a blaze of colour to the formal gardens. On the riverbanks, you may see kingfishers and dippers.

Some think Margam Country Park looks like a fairytale palace, others think it’s almost spooky. Gothic Revival in style, it’s certainly striking, and its lakeside gardens, parkland and woods make a splendid backdrop. You’re likely to see red kites overhead and there are wild hares and deer here, too. Overnight: Swansea. 25 miles/40 km

DAY FOUR: Colby Woodland Garden and Scolton Manor, Pembrokeshire

Managed by the National Trust, Colby Woodland Garden has grassy banks, a flower-filled walled garden with a pretty gazebo and tranquil woodland walks leading to the beach.

It’s the perfect partner for a visit to Scolton Manor, a Pembrokeshire museum of Victorian country life in an 1840s mansion. Scolton has 60 acres of parkland with a pineapple house, beekeeping centre and honey kitchen, where the estate’s honey is bottled. Overnight: Haverfordwest or Narberth. 53 miles/85 km

Glorious gardensThe One Historic Garden project has revitalised seven remarkable Welsh parks, woodlands and gardens in South and West Wales. Open to the public for field studies courses, nature trails, events and visits, you can string them together to make a satisfying tour. For the icing on the cake, visit the National Botanic Garden of Wales, too.

Plot your routewww.onehistoricgarden.co.ukwww.bryngarwhouse.co.ukwww.margamcountrypark.co.ukwww.swansea.gov.uk/cwmdonkinhttp://penllergare.wordpress.com

www.aberglasney.orgwww.gardenofwales.org.ukwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/ colby-woodland-gardenwww.pembrokeshire.gov.uk

Twilight walks at ColbyVisit Colby Woodland Garden on a summer evening for a special treat – a bat walk with an expert equipped with an electronic detector. See some of the UK's rarest bats flutter through the garden to forage.

DAY TWO: Cwmdonkin Park and Penllergare Valley Woods, Swansea

Just a hop and a skip from the suburban house where Dylan Thomas spent his early years, Cwmdonkin Park is a leafy oasis with sloping lawns, Japanese red cedars and giant redwoods, planted in an era when Kew Gardens used it as a testing ground for exotic trees.

Penllergare Valley Woods was an extravagant garden in Victorian times. After 150 years of neglect, it’s being coaxed back to life so that visitors can enjoy its romantic terraced garden and waterfall once again. You can also visit the observatory, where early photos of the moon were taken in the 1850s. Overnight: Swansea. 20 miles/32 km

DAY THREE: Aberglasney Gardens and National Botanic Garden of Wales, Carmarthenshire

There’s another long-term restoration project underway at Aberglasney Gardens. The team have reinstated a beautiful cloister garden and parapet wall, and there’s a magnificent yew tunnel and orchid collection to admire. In spring, 350 varieties of daffodil burst into bloom.

Less than 20 minutes’ drive from here is the National Botanic Garden of Wales, a feast for the senses with fabulous horticultural displays. Foster’s magnificent Great Glasshouse, the world’s largest single-span glass structure, is a masterpiece. Overnight: Carmarthen or Llandeilo. 40 miles/64 km

Margam County Park, Port Talbot

Penllergare Valley Woods, Swansea

Aberglasney Gardens, Carmarthenshire Colby Woodland Garden, Pembrokeshire

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DAY ONE: Swallow Falls to SnowdonKick-start your tour of Snowdonia at Betws-y-Coed, an

energetic little town that’s always busy with walkers, hikers and cyclists. It’s in an idyllic location surrounded by dense woodland and magnificent mountain ranges. From here, a splendid old coaching route, now the A5, takes you to a magical waterfall, Swallow Falls, the highest continuous cascade in Wales. There are viewpoints just a short walk from the road.

Next, head for the heights. The closer you get to Snowdon, the wilder the scenery becomes. Follow the Llanberis Pass to the town of Llanberis, and dose up on local history at the fascinating National Slate Museum. Its workshops have been set up to look as if the workers have just downed their tools and left. Entrance is free.

After lunch at the museum’s Ffowntan Café it’s time to take your seat for the big finish – a train ride to the top of Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales. This is a great way to get a sense of the scale of the landscape. Sir Edmund Hilary and his team trained here before embarking on their climb to the summit of Everest.

The round trip on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, probably the most spectacular train route in Britain, takes around two and a half hours including 30 minutes at the 1085 metre (3560ft) summit – just enough time to drink in the views of Snowdonia’s spectacular lakes and grassy crags from its inspiring visitor centre, Hafod Eryri. Overnight: Betws-y-Coed. 30 miles/48 km

DAY TWO: Scenic drive to PortmeirionTake the A470 south-west from Betws-y-Coed to

follow the beautiful, tree-lined valley of the River Lledr to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Here, the award-winning Llechwedd Slate Caverns picks up the story of slate-mining. A steep cable railway whisks you 800 metres (2624ft) underground into a series of quarry chambers where a commentary recreates scenes from the past. There are fun adventure activities on offer, too – zip lines, a rope course and a huge underground trampoline.

Next, visit the picturesque private village of Portmeirion, an architectural experiment created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the 1920s. It’s been adored ever since for its Mediterranean-style houses, strollable plazas and colourful atmosphere. Explore its ornamental gardens, or settle down to lunch at its waterfront hotel.

There’s more splendid scenery to admire as you loop back. For much of the way to the picturesque, stone- built village of Beddgelert, you’ll be travelling through a tunnel of trees, and north-east of here is the evergreen Nant Gwynant Valley and its natural lake, Llyn Gwynant, a favourite spot for canoeing or kayaking. Overnight: Betws-y-Coed. 47 miles/76 km

Make the most of Snowdonia Base yourself close to the heritage-rich heart of Snowdonia, and you’ll have some of our most spectacular mountains, lakes, forests and waterfalls on your doorstep.

Did you know?There’s far more to the Snowdonia National Park than Mount Snowdon. The park contains nine mountain ranges, over 90 peaks and 100 lakes.

Swallow Falls, Snowdonia

National Slate Museum, Llanberis

Portmeirion, Snowdonia

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Make a planwww.breconbeacons.orgwww.breconbeacons.org/monmouthshire-brecon-canalwww.talgarthmill.comwww.visitwales.com/horse-riding

DAY THREE: Best of southern SnowdoniaThe southern part of the park has dense green forests

and deep Celtic roots. To learn about Welsh folk music, visit Ty Siamas in Dolgellau’s former market hall. It’s an interactive exhibition centre, with harps to pluck, drums to drum and a friendly community café.

If you’re ready for some healthy exercise, you could stroll all or part of the Mawddach Trail, a nine-mile (14 km) National Park route from Dolgellau to Barmouth designed for people of all abilities, or dive into Coed y Brenin Forest Park for woodland walks and world-class mountain bike trails.

End the afternoon at Harlech, whose World Heritage listed castle seems to grow naturally from the rock. It gazes out over Royal St David’s Golf Club, one of the world’s finest traditional links courses. Harlech Beach is a National Nature Reserve and one of the best beaches in Wales. Overnight: Harlech or Barmouth. 62 miles/100 km

MORNING: Horse riding in the hills or a canalside bike ride The Brecon Beacons National Park is a fabulous place to spend time in the saddle. There are several equestrian centres in the area – their experienced guides can take you riding or trekking in the foothills of Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain. If cycling’s more your thing, you could hire a bike and pedal along the beautiful Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal.

AFTERNOON: Pencelli, Brecon and TalgarthA brilliant option for lunch is The Royal Oak in Pencelli, near Brecon.

Its garden backs onto the canal, with colourful narrowboats moored close by, and is gorgeous in summer.

Brecon itself is a characterful market town with narrow streets lined with Georgian houses and independent shops. Its magnificent 11th-century cathedral has beautiful stained glass windows depicting Welsh saints. Talgarth, ten miles (16 km) north-east, has a community-run, water-powered flour mill and traditional bakery that’s well worth a visit. 25 miles/40 km

A day in the Brecon BeaconsAn outdoorsy day out in the Mid Wales countryside is sure to leave you refreshed.

Find your feetwww.eryri-npa.gov.ukwww.museumwales.ac.uk/slatewww.snowdonrailway.co.ukwww.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.ukwww.portmeirion-village.comwww.tysiamas.comwww.forestry.gov.uk/coedybreninhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/harlechcastlewww.royalstdavids.co.ukwww.walescoastpath.gov.uk

A night with the starsThe Brecon Beacons National Park is one of the few places in the world to be designated an International Dark Sky Reserve. Stargazing events and talks are held here all year round.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Brecon Beacons National Park

Pony trekking, Llanthony PrioryHarlech Castle

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DAY ONE: Anglesey: South Stack to Beaumaris

Start your tour by making your way to South Stack. With an iconic lighthouse to climb, panoramic sea views and cleansing breezes, it has a wonderful, furthest-Wales feel. In late spring and summer, you’re likely to see puffins from the RSPB viewpoint.

Next, relax at Rhosneigr, one of the many award-winning beaches that pepper Anglesey’s 125-mile (201 km) coastline. Fantastic for surfing and windsurfing, it’s great for strolling, too – and if you enjoy gastropubs, you’ll love The Oyster Catcher.

Continue to Newborough Warren in southernmost Anglesey, where there are immaculate dunelands to explore. Newborough Forest is a favourite hangout for red squirrels and Llanddwyn Island, a tidal sandbar named after Saint Dwynwen the Welsh Patron Saint of lovers, is one of Anglesey’s most romantic spots.

End the day with a scenic drive to Beaumaris, with views of Snowdonia in the distance. You could visit Beaumaris Castle and Beaumaris Gaol, tuck into a scrumptious Anglesey-made ice cream or splurge on an evening of fine dining at Cennin. Overnight: Beaumaris. 50 miles/80 km

DAY TWO: Beaumaris, Anglesey to Porthdinllaen, Ll^yn Peninsula

From Beaumaris, cross the Menai Strait to visit another superb fortress, Caernarfon Castle, the mightiest to be built under Edward I of England in the 1200s. Caernarfon is a gateway to Llyn, a beautiful peninsula with hidden coves, Iron Age forts and breezy coastal walks.

The Llyn Peninsula’s northernmost beach is Dinas Dinlle, a long, clean swathe of sand and pebbles, perfect for walking, windsurfing and birdwatching. Further south-west, you can learn about local culture at Nant Gwrtheyrn, a peaceful Welsh language and heritage centre. Even if you’re not taking a course in Welsh here, you’ll be welcome at the café for lunch.

Halfway down the peninsula, on a horseshoe curve of unspoilt, wildlife-rich beach, is the characterful, car-free fishing village of Porthdinllaen. There’s nothing quite like walking across the sand to pop into the Ty Coch Inn for a pint of Cwrw Llyn beer, brewed using local mountain water. It has the biggest lounge bar in Wales – the whole beach. You can enjoy your drink with your feet dipped in the sea. Overnight: Aberdaron or Abersoch. 54 miles/87 km

Best of the North Wales coast The Anglesey and Ll^yn Peninsula Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty include gorgeous stretches of wild, Welsh coastline. Escape the crowds and explore.

Secret springPlas yn Rhiw closes over the winter, but if you’re visiting in January, February or March, ask whether you can visit the garden anyway. It sometimes opens at weekends when the snowdrops and daffodils are in bloom – a special treat.

South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey

Beaumaris Gaol

Traeth Crigyll, Anglesey

Porthdinllaen, Llyn Peninsula

Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey

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DAY THREE: Ll^yn Peninsula: Aberdaron to Llanbedrog

Aberdaron, at the tip of the Llyn Peninsula, is a delightful seaside village with a new, eco-friendly National Trust visitor centre, Henfaes Centre Porth y Swnt, which focuses on local history, poetry and nature. From here, you can climb up Mynydd Mawr to watch choughs, Llyn’s signature birds, and enjoy wonderful sea views.

Visit Plas yn Rhiw, an attractive little historic house and ornamental garden with stunning sea views near Port Neigwl bay, then carry on to Abersoch, a favourite beach resort for those in the know. If it’s sunny and you love sailing and sand, you might want to stay here for the rest of the day.

Alternatively, continue to the pretty little beach at Llanbedrog, backed by a rainbow of beach huts. Perched above it is Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, an 1850's Gothic manor which hosts interesting art exhibitions and has a delightful conservatory tea room, outdoor theatre and sculpture garden. Overnight: Abersoch or Pwllheli. 20 miles/32 km

DAY TWO: Gower and Laugharne

Gower was a lasting inspiration to Dylan. Rhossili Bay, a favourite spot for camping trips, is just as impressive today. Dylan even considered moving to Rhossili, but dropped the idea when he realised it didn’t have a pub.

The seaside village of Mumbles was one of the places which helped Dylan dream up Under Milk Wood. An enthusiastic amateur actor, he used to rehearse with the Swansea Little Theatre at a church hall on Mumbles Road, then drink the night away in The Antelope or The Marine, since renamed The Village Inn.

From Gower, it’s an hour or so by road to the waterside village of Laugharne, where Dylan spent most of the last four years of his life, from 1949 to 1953. A visit to the Dylan Thomas Boathouse, now a museum with wonderful views of the Taf Estuary and Gower, is a must. Dylan’s writing shed has been immaculately preserved. After that, raise a glass to his honour at Browns Hotel, where he would often settle down with a pint to play cards, gossip with friends or simply write.Overnight: Laugharne. 78 miles/126 km

Dylan Thomas’ South Wales coastTo trace the story of Wales’ best loved writer, visit some of the landmarks of his life on the coast in Swansea, Gower and Laugharne.

Find your waywww.rspb.org.ukwww.oystercatcheranglesey.co.ukhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/beaumaris-castlehttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/caernarfon-castlewww.nantgwrtheyrn.orgwww.tycoch.co.ukwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/henfaes-centrewww.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-yn-rhiwwww.oriel.org.uk

Follow in Dylan’s footstepswww.dylanthomas.comwww.5cwmdonkindrive.comwww.swansea.gov.uk/cwmdonkinwww.dylanthomasboathouse.comwww.browns-hotel.co.uk

DAY ONE: SwanseaTo begin at the beginning, you’ll

want to start your journey at the Dylan Thomas Centre in Swansea’s Maritime Quarter, which will introduce you to Dylan, the writer. This museum and cultural centre exhibits letters, manuscripts and notebooks, complemented by fascinating historical details. It also hosts readings and talks celebrating Dylan’s legacy.

Next, visit 5 Cwmdonkin Drive in Uplands, Swansea, the house where Dylan Thomas was born on 27 October 1914. It remained his family home until 1937. The present owners have restored it with 1920's and 30's furnishings, complete with gramophone, books and fascinating personal items.

Cwmdonkin Park, nearby, Dylan’s favourite place to run about as a boy, has walking trails among exotic trees, and The Uplands Tavern (formerly The Uplands Hotel) became one of his regular drinking holes. Overnight: Swansea. 5 miles/8 km

“I was born in a large Welsh industrial town at the beginning of the Great War: an ugly, lovely town (or so it was, and is, to me) crawling, sprawling… by the side of a long and splendid curving shore. This sea-town was my world.” Dylan Thomas, Extract of Reminiscences of Childhood.

5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Swansea

Interior of the Writing Shed

5 Cwmdonkin Drive, Swansea

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DAY ONE: Chirk, Castell Dinas Brân and Denbigh

We’ll start by exploring three relatively modest medieval castles in North East Wales, each very different in character.

Commissioned at the turn of the 1300s, in the era of Edward I of England, Chirk Castle is now surrounded by award-winning gardens. Parts of the castle were lived in until recently and have the feel of a stately home, with grand apartments to visit. Castell Dinas Brân, in contrast, is very much a ruin. Dating back to the 1260s, it stands on a hilltop near Llangollen that has been fortified since the Iron Age. It’s a steep climb to get there, but the views are worth it. In Llangollen, try The Corn Mill for lunch.

Next stop is Denbigh Castle, founded in the 1280s, one of the region’s most picturesque ruins. It overlooks the market town of Denbigh, with woodland flanking its southern walls. Overnight: Denbigh. 34 miles/55 km

DAY TWO: Conwy and BeaumarisConwy Castle and Beaumaris Castle

belong to the Iron Ring of fortifications commissioned by Edward I of England. Jaw-droppingly impressive, they’re UNESCO World Heritage listed, together with Caernarfon and Harlech.

Conwy has well preserved walls and sturdy cylindrical towers topped with chunky crenellations. The views from the top are superb. Of all Edward I’s castles, this was the costliest to build. It guards almost a mile (2 km) of medieval town walls with 22 towers.

On your way to Beaumaris, you could have lunch at Dylan’s, a waterside restaurant next to Thomas Telford’s Menai Strait bridge. Beaumaris Castle was never finished, but has beautiful proportions and fine masonry. Its town is pleasant to wander, with great eating and drinking. Overnight: Beaumaris. 47 miles/76 km

Great Welsh castles in North and Mid Wales You don’t have to travel far to find a castle in Wales. Here’s a selection to get you started – some well known, others well off the beaten track.

Denbigh Castle

Caernarfon Castle


DAY THREE: Caernarfon and Dolbadarn

Caernarfon Castle was built in the 1280s by the master military architect of the age, Jacques de Saint-Georges d’Espéranche, under orders from Edward I. It was supremely advanced, with bands of different coloured stone decorating the walls and lavish murals inside. There were even state-of-the-art comforts such as window glass, bathrooms and running water.

For lunch or ice cream, try Palas Caffi near the castle. While you relax, you can learn more about local history and pick up useful Welsh phrases from the chalkboards dotted around.

From Caernarfon, head into Snowdonia National Park to enjoy a lesser-known gem, Dolbadarn Castle. There’s not much left apart from a round-towered keep, but its setting, overlooking Llyn Peris and the mountains, is sublime. You’re sure to want plenty of photos. Overnight: Criccieth. 46 miles/74 km

DAY FOUR: Criccieth, Harlech and Castell y Bere

To complete your tour, visit a pair of fairytale coastal castles – one Welsh-built, one English – and a quiet ruin, hidden in the Snowdonia countryside between Cadair Idris and the sea.

As soon as you arrive at Criccieth Castle you’ll know why a 14th-century poem describes it as the “bright fortress on the cliff top”. Built by Llywelyn the Great, it overlooks the sea, with peaceful beaches on either side. The Castle Inn would make a fitting place for lunch.

Harlech Castle used to stand right beside the sea, too, and was almost impregnable. The waters have since receded but a long stairway, once used to carry supplies from boats in times of siege, still leads down the cliff. Castell y Bere is another of Llywelyn the Great’s grand achievements. It’s dramatically situated below Cadair Idris, Wales’ most popular peak after Snowdon.Overnight: Machynlleth. 60 miles/97 km

Plan your campaignhttp://cadw.wales.gov.ukwww.nationaltrust.org.uk/chirk-castlewww.brunningandprice.co.uk/cornmillwww.dylansrestaurant.co.ukwww.thecastleinncriccieth.co.uk

Castles galoreWith a Celtic heritage that dates back over 2,500 years, Wales has around 641 castles – the highest concentration in Europe. You could visit a Welsh castle every day for a year and still have more to see.

Dolbadarn Castle

Beaumaris Castle

Harlech Castle

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A week of high octane activities We’re an outdoorsy lot in Wales. If you’re raring to go, our hills, forests, rivers and coasts will keep you busy. Let’s get started.

DAY ONE: Canoeing in the Brecon Beacons and mountain biking in The Valleys

Smooth, glossy waters or nerve-jangling rapids – we have both, at different times of year. Brecon Promenade on the River Usk is a great place to get in the water. If you’ve got the stamina, you could canoe to Llangynidr through ten miles (16 km) of beautiful scenery – lush, green and tree-lined.

Next, hit the trails at BikePark Wales, the UK’s first major commercial mountain biking site. It’s designed to appeal to all, with trails graded from green to black, like ski slopes. Trail X, the gnarliest challenge, has nine metre (30ft) gaps. Exciting stuff. The café serves tasty, reviving food and drink.Overnight: Abercanaid, Merthyr Tydfil or Pontsticill. 24 miles/39 km

DAY TWO: Bushcraft course in Gower

Today, spend the day learning all about bushcraft on the beautiful Gower Peninsula with local experts. They’ll teach you navigation, tracking, shelter-building and foraging skills – catching fish and cooking them with wild herbs over a campfire. By the end of the day you’ll be thinking like a survivor.Overnight: Mumbles or Llangennith. 47 miles/76 km

DAY THREE: Surfing in GowerGet up early, pull on a wetsuit, grab a

surfboard and catch the cream of the waves around Gower. The surf shops at Llangennith and Caswell Bay can fix you up with whatever you need, be it gear, lessons or up-to-the-minute advice on where to go. Langland Bay is the experts’ favourite – Welsh champions often try out their best moves here – and Rhossili is always beautiful. A number of accredited companies in the area offer lessons. If you can tear yourself away from Gower, make the two-hour drive to north Pembrokeshire.Overnight: St David's. 83 miles/134 km

DAY FOUR: Coasteering and sea kayaking in Pembrokeshire

Coasteering is a Pembrokeshire speciality, developed here in the 1980s. It’s a blast, and you don’t even need to be a strong swimmer. Experienced guides will kit you out in wetsuits, helmets and trainers and lead you into the sea. You’ll explore caves, spot seals, clamber onto rocks and leap into deep water, hooting with exhilaration. For an extra dimension, try sea kayaking, too.Overnight: Aberaeron. 57 miles/92 km

Coasteering, PembrokeshireBushcraft Course, Gower

BikePark Wales, Merthyr Tydfil

Surfing, Gower


DAY FIVE: Whitewater rafting in Snowdonia

From Aberaeron, travel to Bala, around 1.5 hours drive north-east, for the next stage of your adventure. Head for the National White Water Centre, which specialises in fast and furious paddlesports. You’ll be rafting or kayaking along the River Tryweryn’s Olympic-grade rollercoaster of Grade 3-4 rapids. The secret’s in the dam, which keeps the water thundering all year round.Overnight: Bala. 65 miles/105 km

Get it togetherwww.visitwales.com/canoewww.bikeparkwales.comwww.visitwales.com/bushcraft-foragingwww.visitwales.com/surfingwww.visitwales.com/coasteeringwww.visitwales.com/raftingwww.ukrafting.co.ukwww.ttadventure.co.ukwww.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.ukwww.zipworld.co.ukwww.visitwales.com/watersportswww.wakestock.co.ukwww.bouncebelow.net

Ready for adventure?It’s all here. Wales has some of Britain’s best white water and mountain biking trails. And now, we also have the world’s largest ziplining zone, Zip World Titan, with over five miles (8 km) of lines which you can whizz down at up to 60mph (97 km/h).

DAY SIX: High ropes, zipwiring and trampolining in Snowdonia

Get a bird’s eye view of Snowdonia on the exciting high ropes course at Tree Top Adventure. Set in a forest of sturdy pines, you’ll test your nerve on beams, bridges and wires. For more high-level adventures visit Llechwedd Slate Caverns, where Zip World Titan has just opened. And just for fun, why not have a go on Bounce Below, a giant trampoline in a cavern – you’ll feel like a kid again. Then travel west to the Llyn Peninsula.Overnight: Pwllheli. 48 miles/72 km

DAY SEVEN: Wakeboarding and sailing on the Ll^yn Peninsula

In Abersoch and Pwllheli on the Llyn Peninsula, watersports are everything. Wakeboarding – a cross between waterskiing, snowboarding and surfing – is so popular here, there’s a massive annual music-and-watersports festival devoted to it, Wakestock. Tremadog Bay is spacious and safe, with clear, clean water, a Welsh mountain backdrop and a stiff southwesterly breeze to keep things exciting – so much so, that Olympic medallists have trained here. Dinghies and windsurfers are available to hire. Overnight: Abersoch or Pwllheli.

Bounce Below, SnowdoniaWakestock, Near AbersochZip World, SnowdoniaNational White Water Centre, Bala


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Plan your campaignhttp://cadw.wales.gov.uk/daysout/tinternabbeywww.llandaffcathedral.org.ukwww.caldey-island.co.ukwww.stnonsretreat.org.ukwww.stdavidscathedral.org.ukwww.stdavidsrefectory.co.ukwww.friendsofmwntchurch.co.uk

DAY TWO: Caldey and St Govan’sIn Pembrokeshire, visit Caldey Abbey, a religious

community that’s thriving. Various orders of monks have lived on Caldey Island since Celtic times; the present-day Cistercians run retreats and a small shop. This peaceful place, reached by boat from Tenby, is open to the public in summer. Walk across the fields to the clifftop lighthouse for fantastic views across the Bristol Channel. You could eat at the Tea Gardens or bring a picnic and buy some handmade Caldey chocolate.

To find peace of a wild, contemplative sort, seek out St Govan’s Chapel near Bosherston. Wedged into a gap in the Pembrokeshire cliffs, this tiny stone church is reached by a flight of steps from the coastal footpath above. Overnight: Tenby or Saundersfoot. 90 miles/145 km

DAY ONE: Tintern and LlandaffRomantic and picturesque, Tintern Abbey was Wales’

first Cistercian foundation. It’s now the best-preserved medieval abbey in Wales. With a glorious setting in the Wye Valley, it inspires painters, photographers and poets. For lunch, try Tintern’s Moon and Sixpence. Then move on to Llandaff – a village-within-a-city that’s Cardiff’s answer to London’s Hampstead or New York’s Greenwich Village – to visit the 12th-century Llandaff Cathedral, which has a striking 1950's aluminium sculpture by Sir Jacob Epstein. Overnight: Swansea. 79 miles/127 km

Follow the pilgrim trail There’s a wealth of churches, chapels, abbeys and shrines to discover all over Wales. Here, we focus on sites near the south and south-west coast.

Step back in timeLegend has it that no matter how carefully you count the steps leading down to St Govan’s Chapel, you’ll never count the same number on the way up.

DAY THREE: St Non’s, St David’s and MwntThe remains of the medieval Chapel and Holy Well

of Blessed Non on the Pembrokeshire coast south of St David’s is an important site. St Non was the mother of St David; there’s a retreat centre bearing her name nearby. St David’s Cathedral is a 12th-century masterpiece, built on a site founded by David, the Patron Saint of Wales, 600 years before. Set in a hollow, it’s a building to fire the imagination, with a humble but beautiful appearance and an active community.

For lunch, you could try St David’s Refectory in the cathedral or take a picnic to the coast at Mwnt, around 39 miles (63 km) from St David’s, spotting dolphins out at sea while you eat.

Mwnt Church is the oldest church in Ceredigion. The serene rural setting of this simple, whitewashed building, overlooking Cardigan Bay, adds to its profoundly spiritual atmosphere.Overnight: Cardigan, Aberporth or Llangrannog. 87 miles/140 km

Tintern Abbey, Wye Valley

Llandaff Cathedral,

Cardiff

Mwnt Church, Ceredigion

St Govan's Chapel,

Pembrokeshire


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DAY THREE: Strolling the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Winding its way around glorious beaches and along clifftops sprinkled with wildflowers, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers new views of sparkling sea and billowing clouds around every bend. Measuring 186 miles (299 km), it’s easily broken into short chunks. The circular walk near Marloes is a superb half day, with an Iron Age hillfort and views to Skomer Island clouded by seabirds. Alternatively go on the 10 mile (16 km) day walk around the Dale Peninsula: around St Anne’s Head there’s raw Atlantic on one side and calm estuary on the other. Finish with a refreshing drink in the Griffin Inn at Dale.Overnight: Dale or Broad Haven. 73 miles/117 km

DAY ONE: Hill walking or horse riding in the Brecon Beacons

There’s peace and freedom to be found in the soft, rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons National Park, whether you decide to conquer the Central Beacons, the highest range in southern Britain, or meander around the foothills. This is a surprisingly varied landscape, with wild grassy uplands, interesting limestone caves, woods and waterfalls. It’s as enjoyable to explore on horseback as it is on foot. Classic walks include the ascent of Pen-y-Fan and the easy treks through the park’s Waterfall Country, waymarked from Pontneddfechan.Overnight: Brecon or Crickhowell. 20 miles/32 km

Make it happenwww.visitwales.com/horse-ridingwww.breconbeacons.orgwww.southerndowngolf.comwww.pembrokeshirecoast.org.ukwww.walescoastpath.gov.ukwww.griffininndale.co.uk

Go greenFor an eco-friendly way to get around the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, try our hop-on-hop-off Coastal Bus Service. Most of the buses run on recycled vegetable oil, which is sourced and recycled locally.www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/coastbus

Relax and enjoy the outdoors With big skies overhead and fresh air by the gallon, our golf courses, footpaths and bridleways are brilliant places to unwind.

DAY TWO: Golf at SoutherndownEnjoy a day of golf at Southerndown Golf Club,

a unique course that’s part sandy links and part acid heathland. It’s one of the driest courses in Wales, with bracken, gorse and wind adding to the challenge. The uphill opening hole is tough enough to satisfy champions and the views of the hills and valleys of South Wales from the 10th tee are spectacular.Overnight: Swansea. 82 miles/132 km

Cribyn summit cairn, Brecon Beacons

Southerndown Golf Club, Bridgend

Upper Ddwli Falls, Brecon Beacons

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

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Fast Facts What's the weather like?

Wales has a moderate climate, but the weather can be unpredictable! Conditions often change rapidly – it can be rainy in the morning then gloriously sunny all afternoon. As you travel between our coasts, valleys and mountains, you’re likely to experience different weather within a short distance. Visitors to Wales are often surprised by our long summer days. In North Wales, it’s still light at 10pm in June and July.Be weather-wiseIf you’re going hillwalking, make sure you’re prepared for changeable conditions, whatever the season.

i Did you know?

• According to ancient Welsh folklore, a girl who puts a leek under her pillow at night will see the face of her future husband in her dreams.

• The Royal Welsh regiment celebrates St David’s Day with a leek eating competition. To make it truly challenging, the leek must be raw.

• Leeks are a key ingredient in cawl, the classic Welsh meat and vegetable soup.

• Nobody knows how the leek came to symbolise Wales. We think it started with the druids, the all-powerful priests who ruled Wales in pre-Roman days.

• The cheery yellow daffodil, whose Welsh name, cenhinen bedr, means St Peter’s Leek, became our second emblem in the 19th-century.

• A red dragon has appeared on our flag since Celtic times and is a potent symbol of Welshness. You’ll see dragons adorning everything from town halls to ale pumps.

• The Prince of Wales’ heraldic crest of three ostrich feathers and a coronet dates back to the Battle of Crécy in 1346. Versions of it are used as the badges of the Welsh National Rugby Union team and several military regiments.

• St David, a Celtic abbot who died on 1st March 589, was so respected by medieval Christians that two pilgrimages to his burial place in St David’s Cathedral, Pembrokeshire, were considered as holy as one to Rome.

• In Welsh legend, the summit of Snowdon is the burial place of a fearsome giant, Rhitta Gawr, who King Arthur defeated in a duel.

Similar size to Massachusetts, USA

Area: 8,024 sq miles (20,782 km²)Size: 170 miles (256 km) north to south, 60 miles (96 km) west to east

National instrument: Harp

National Emblems: Leek and Daffodil

Official languages: English and Welsh

Highest point Snowdon 3,560ft (1085m)

Capital city: Cardiff (population 350,000)

Curency: UK pounds sterling (£)

National anthem: Land of my Fathers (Hen Wlad fy Nhadau)

Wales

Patron Saint: St DavidNational Day: 1st March

Population: 3,100,000

Say Hello! Bore da Good morning… Prynhawn da Good afternoon… Noswaith dda Good evening… Nos da Good night… Shwmae Hello…

Learning the Language

Throughout Wales you’ll come across our lyrical language. Spoken with enthusiasm by young and old alike, it helps give Wales its unique identity and distinctiveness. Wales is a bilingual country. Everyone speaks English, but every child learns Welsh at school and many families speak Welsh at home, particularly in rural Gwynedd, Mid Wales, Ceredigion and north Pembrokeshire. Dating back to the 6th-century, Welsh is one of Europe’s oldest living languages. It’s closely related to Cornish and Breton.www.bbc.co.uk/wales/learning/learnwelshwww.nantgwrtheyrn.org

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ExploreFact FileFAQs

What travel documents do I need?On arrival in the United Kingdom, visitors must show a valid national passport or other document satisfactorily establishing his/her identity and nationality. Entry clearance and visa requirements for Wales are the same as for the United Kingdom as a whole. Details are available from the UK visas website www.gov.uk/visas-immigration

Do I need medical insurance?You are strongly advised to take out adequate insurance cover before travelling. Your tour operator will be able to suggest a suitable policy. Further information is available from Visit Britain www.visitbritain.com (see travel tips).

Driving in WalesA handy route planner facility including driving directions and detailed maps can be found at www.theaa.com and www.rac.co.uk. Additional information on UK road regulations can be found at www.visitbritain.com (see transport).

Information for visitors with disabilities‘Tourism for All’ is a free specialist information service promoting accessible tourism. It offers specialist information on travel planning, transport, accommodation and booking. www.tourismforall.org.uk/Visitors-to-the-UK.html

AccommodationWhen choosing your holiday accommodation, look for the Cymru/Wales quality mark of Wales’ official, nationwide quality assessment scheme. Then you can be confident that it has been checked out before you check in. All the national assessing bodies now assess holiday accommodation to the same criteria and award one to five stars. The stars reflect the facilities and overall quality of the experience. www.visitwales.com/grading

How can I get a value added tax (VAT) refund on my shopping?Value Added Tax (VAT) is applied to goods and services. Overseas visitors to Wales can reclaim VAT on goods only by using the foreign exchange tax free shopping arrangements at participating shops and stores. A tax-free shopping form is obtained and completed at the shop, where you must show your passport. The form must then be presented to Her Majesty’s Customs and Excise when you leave the UK. www.hmrc.gov.uk/vat/sectors/consumers/overseas-visitors.htm

Opening hoursGeneral shop hours are 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and usually 10am – 4pm on Sunday (in larger towns and cities). Supermarkets tend to be open later until 8pm, and some of the larger superstores are open 24 hours during weekdays. Banks tend to open 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday, and 9am – 12.00 noon on Saturday.

Are there guidelines for tipping?There are no definite rules for tipping. If you feel that you have received good service then you may wish to leave a tip. This is most common in restaurants, where the tip can be up to 10-15% of the bill – but you should always check to see if a service charge has already been included. Tipping in hotels is also at your discretion. It is not normal to tip bar staff, although they may be offered a drink. Taxi drivers are often given a small tip, particularly on longer journeys and if they have carried your luggage.

Public holidays in 2015January 1, April 3, April 6, May 4, May 25, August 31, December 25 & 28.

When are the school holidays?The main summer holiday is from mid-July to early September in England and Wales. Schools also have two to three weeks holiday at Christmas and Easter, plus a week in mid-February, end May and mid-October. Exact dates vary between each education authority.

Calling WalesThe international dialling code for the UK is 011 44. Having dialled the country code, the town code then has to be dialled omitting the ‘0’. In Wales, to obtain the services of the fire brigade, police or ambulance service in an emergency, dial 999 from any phone.

Local information when you’re in WalesOne of the simplest and quickest ways of getting local information is by visiting one of our Tourist Information Centres. The staff are highly trained, have an excellent knowledge of the area and will be delighted to help you with: booking your accommodation, places to eat, things to do, routes to take, national and local events, maps, guides and books. Normally offices are open between 10am and 5pm. For a list of Tourist Information Centres see www.visitwales.com (see contact us).

Visitors in London requiring information about Wales can visit the Britain and London Visitor Centre, 1 Regent Street, London, SW1Y 4XT (near Piccadilly Circus).

Sut wyt ti? How are you?… Os gwelwch yn dda Please… Diolch Thanks… Croeso i Gymru Welcome to Wales… Da iawn Very good… Iechyd da! Cheers!


Getting to WalesWales is easy to get to. It’s only a few hours by motorway from London. By train it’s even quicker – just two hours from London to Cardiff. It’s the same from Britain’s major airports with speedy road and rail links from Heathrow, Gatwick, Birmingham and Manchester.

By road

Mileage and journey times by carBirmingham Ø Aberystwyth – 123 miles, 2hrs 44minsBath Ø Newport – 42 miles, 52minsCanterbury Ø Cardiff – 214 miles, 3hrs 51minsCoventry Ø Barmouth – 138 miles, 2hrs 56minsExeter Ø Swansea – 144 miles, 2hrs 35minsLeeds Ø Llandudno – 126 miles, 2hrs 31minsLondon Ø Cardiff – 151 miles, 2hrs 53minsLondon Ø Tenby – 238 miles, 4hrs 29minsManchester Ø Caernarfon – 105 miles, 2hrs 19minsNottingham Ø Swansea – 204 miles, 3hrs 41minsReading Ø Carmarthen – 172 miles, 3hrs 02minsYork Ø Welshpool – 152 miles, 3hrs 7minsEdinburgh Ø Cardiff – 393 miles, 7hrs 03minsGlasgow Ø Aberystwyth – 331 miles, 6hrs 04minsMileage/times supplied by www.theaa.com

National Express provides a nationwide network of express coach services linking major towns and cities in Wales as well as the UK’s principal destinations. www.nationalexpress.com You can hop on and off the National Express network with a Brit Xplorer pass. Passes can be purchased online at www.nationalexpress.com/waystosave/brit-xplorer.aspx

Megabus provides low cost intercity travel in the UK, with buses running from a number of major UK cities to locations in Wales. http://uk.megabus.com

By air

Cardiff airport is situated in Rhoose, 12 miles (20 km) south-west of Cardiff. Buses, trains and taxis offer links to the city centre and surrounding area and car hire is available in the terminal building. The Cardiff Airport Express bus service offers a direct link to the city centre every 20-30 minutes. Citywing also operates a direct flight to Anglesey from Cardiff, enabling you to get to North Wales in around 45 minutes. www.cardiff-airport.com

Airlines from all over the world fly into the London airports, so check with your travel agent or tour operator to find the best option for your journey. Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool also have a number of international flights, and Bristol airport is very conveniently located for a trip to Wales.

UK airports that offer easy access to Wales:www.birminghamairport.co.ukwww.bristolairport.co.ukwww.liverpoolairport.comwww.gatwickairport.comwww.heathrowairport.comwww.london-luton.co.ukwww.stanstedairport.comwww.manchesterairport.co.uk

Capel Curig, Snowdonia

GLASGOW

LIVERPOOL

Pembroke

Fishguard

EDINBURGH


By rail

In the UK, fast and frequent rail services run between London Paddington and Cardiff, taking just over two hours. There is a half-hourly departure to Cardiff Central, with an hourly continuation to Swansea and onward connections to West Wales.

There are also direct trains from London Euston and Manchester to Llandudno, Bangor and Holyhead; from Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Crewe to the North Wales coast and the Llyn Peninsula; from Manchester and Shrewsbury to Newport; and from Portsmouth, Southampton and Salisbury to Cardiff.

From London Heathrow Airport, there’s a fast, direct rail service to Paddington, where you can change onto a direct train to Wales. From London Gatwick Airport, you can travel direct to London Victoria, then take the tube to Paddington or Euston to continue your journey. www.nationalrail.co.uk or www.thetrainline.com

By ferry

Ferry crossings from Ireland to Wales:Irish FerriesDublin Port to Holyhead Journey time: 1hr 49mins (Fast ferry), Journey time: 3hrs 15mins (Cruise ferry)Rosslare to Pembroke Journey time: 4hrs (Cruise ferry)www.irishferries.com

Stena LineDublin Port to Holyhead Journey time: 3hrs 15mins (Superferry)Dun Laoghaire to Holyhead Journey time: 2hrs 20mins (Fastcraft) Rosslare to Fishguard Journey time: 3hrs 30mins (Superferry)www.stenaline.co.uk

Ferry crossings from mainland Europe to Great Britain:www.brittany-ferries.co.ukwww.condorferries.co.ukwww.dfdsseaways.co.ukhttp://ldlines.co.ukwww.poferries.comwww.stenaline.com

By cruise ship

Cruise ships dock at the Port of Holyhead on Anglesey almost every week between May and September. Cruise lines calling in include Crystal, Hapag Lloyd, Oceania, P&O, Silversea, Swan Hellenic, Thomson, Tui, Voyages of Discovery and Windstar.

For more information on getting to Wales go to www.visitwales.com/international-travel

Free brochures Find out more about Wales by choosing some of the FREE guides available. Check them out, and order or download them from www.visitwales.com/brochures

Other Visit Wales Websites There are a number of other really useful Visit Wales websites to get information on the different types of activities you can try on your holiday in Wales.

Adventure – www.visitwales.com/activeFishing – www.fishing.visitwales.comMountain Biking – www.mbwales.comWalking – www.walking.visitwales.comGolf – www.golfasitshouldbe.com

More information on Wales – www.visitbritain.com

Selling Wales to your clients If you work in the leisure travel trade or business tourism sectors, we have a dedicated website to help you sell Wales to your clients. You can enhance their existing tours to Wales or introduce Wales into UK programs for the first time. There’s everything from great places to visit, how to get here, inspiring itinerary ideas, operator and venue searches, and the latest product news where you can sign up to receive regular product updates. www.traveltrade.visitwales.com

The Port of Holyhead, Anglesey

Dovey estuary, Aberdovey

GLASGOW

LIVERPOOL

Pembroke

Fishguard

EDINBURGH

Getting around WalesIt’s easy to get around Wales by train, bus, car or even domestic flight. And if you’re keen to explore, you’ll find plenty of journeys that are wonderful experiences in their own right. We have some of the most scenic roads, railways and pathways in Britain.

By road

The most scenic drives in Wales count among the best in Britain. Some favourite routes with fantastic views include the A466 along the Wye Valley, the B4574 from Rhayader to the Vale of Rheidol, the A4069 across the Black Mountain range, the A4086, A498 and A4085 around Snowdon and Marine Drive around Great Orme in Llandudno.

When you’re out and about in the National Parks, use the convenient park and ride bus services designed to cut down on traffic. www.pembrokeshire.gov.ukwww.gwynedd.gov.uk

National Express operates long-distance intercity coach services to many towns and cities throughout Wales. www.nationalexpress.com

Megabus runs a low-cost coach service between Cwmbran, Newport, Cardiff, Swansea, Carmarthen and Pembroke Dock. http://uk.megabus.com

By rail

Rail services run through the regions of Wales. Many of our routes such as the Cambrian Coast, Conwy Valley and Heart of Wales lines are highly scenic. www.thecambrianline.co.ukwww.scenicwales.co.ukwww.heart-of-wales.co.ukwww.nationalrail.co.ukwww.arrivatrainswales.co.uk

For pure pleasure why not take a ride on some of the 14 narrow gauge and steam railways? Many are members of the Great Little Trains of Wales. www.greatlittletrainsofwales.co.uk

Discounted rail

and bus travel

The Explore Wales Pass offers unlimited travel on all mainline rail services in Wales plus most scheduled bus services. Holders will also benefit from discounted entry to many tourist attractions and selected accommodation. The Explore Wales Pass (£94) allows four-day train and eight-day bus travel. The Explore South Wales, North Wales and Mid Wales Passes (£64 each) allow four-day train and eight-day bus travel within each regional area. There are also a number of Rovers and Rangers tickets available, which all offer unlimited train travel for one day on specific areas of the Arriva Trains Wales network. They can be purchased from the station booking office or on board the train. www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk/explorewalespass


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Additional informationPublic transport information www.traveline-cymru.infoRoute planner www.theaa.com or www.rac.co.ukUK road regulations www.gov.uk/browse/driving/highway-code

For more information on getting around Wales go to www.visitwales.com/getting-around

Travel agents and tour operatorsTo make it really easy to book your holiday or short break in wales you could use a tour operator. They often have specialist knowledge of particular products and will be happy to help you find the right holiday to suit your needs. In addition there are also a number of Wales based operators who are able to plan your itinerary in Wales with specialist and bespoke tours to meet your requirements. www.visitwales.com/tour-operators

Conwy CastleGreat Orme, Llandudno

Newgale, Pembrokeshire


contentsExplore

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Place names which tell a storyYou know where you are with a Welsh place name. Many of them have prefixes or stems which describe their surroundings. Dozens of towns and villages in Wales have a name beginning with Llan, meaning churchyard, glebe or parish for example – Llandudno means the parish of St Tudno and Llanddewi is the parish of Dewi (St David), and so on.

Aber river mouth

Betws house of prayer

Bach/Fach small

Blaen head of a valley

Bryn hill

Bwlch mountain pass

Caer/Gaer fort

Capel chapel

Castell castle

Coch red

Coed wood, forest

Cwm valley

Fawr/Mawr big, great

Ffynnon well, spring

Glan bank, shore

Glyn glen, deep valley

Llyn lake, pond

Mynydd mountain

Nant stream

Pen top, end

Pentre village

Pont bridge

Tre/Tref town, homestead

Ty house

Y the

Ynys island

While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in this publication, Visit Wales can accept no liability for any errors, inaccuracies or omissions or for any matter in anyway arising out of the publication of the information. All websites listed are checked at the time of going to press. However, Visit Wales cannot be held accountable for any change in the content of these websites.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch

www.visitwales.com

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