Wales Travel Guide outlines tourist attractions and things to see and do in Wales for visitors. Wales is a popular destination for visitors both from the UK and abroad, whilst being a relatively small country there is a range of landscapes for visitors to see from the acclaimed beaches on the Gower peninsula to the mountains and valleys Wales is famous for. With a long and distinguished history there are a range of historical sites including world heritage sites there are cities and towns such as Cardiff and Swansea along with plenty of scenic open spaces where visitors can enjoy some of the finest scenery in the UK.
Overview and Attractions
A trip to Wales is appealing for visitors from the UK, you do not need to fly as it is only a car ride or train trip away. Welsh is one of Europe's oldest languages and the language is being spoken in increasing numbers by the locals. Wales is enjoying a rebirth as a place of history and culture with the Welsh proud of their heritage and culture. This distinctive culture within the UK makes for an enjoyable place to visit for tourists.
A visit here can mean many different holidays including seeing the National Parks or a visit to a World Heritage Site. You could be enjoying yourself by the beach on one of the designated Blue Flag beaches. With its location a great advantage, many visitors from within the UK are enjoying short breaks in Wales especially over a bank holiday or a few days, meaning you can make the most of the time you have and not spend large amounts of valuable time travelling to and from your holiday destination.
South Wales has its hub in Cardiff, the capital of Wales. Cardiff is an interesting city where you can see many historical buildings and beautiful parklands. Local attractions include Cardiff Castle, a historic Norman keep that provides fine views across Cardiff. The rooms in the castle are well known for the extravagantly themed rooms using biblical and astrological themes. The Cardiff Summer Festival takes place in July/August each year and offers a great day out for the family, it is one of the largest free festivals in Europe and offers a mixed program of arts, comedy and theatre along with food and drink and a music programme. There are also good entertainment options available with the capital famous for its lively nightlife.
The Gower Peninsular is extremely scenic and has many historical remains for the history enthusiast. Monmouth is renowned as a great place for walkers who can enjoy the plentiful countryside. The Vale of Neath is famous for its waterfalls. There are a range of attractions and places of interest for visitors such as castles, caves, churches, beaches and more. There are plenty of visitors to the area including families, beach lovers, walkers and tourists. With some of the finest beaches in the UK, the Gower Peninsular is a popular destination particularly in the summer.
The Wye Valley and Vale of Usk, are filled with breathtaking scenery and sites of historic interest including Tintern Abbey. This area is close to the border with England and a great location for UK based visitors to make a quick trip. Renowned for the peace and quiet you will find it a world away from the hustle and bustle of any large city. The Wye Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty is a protected landscape, it boasts great landscapes, scenery, wildlife and historical remains.
Beacon Beacons National Park offers visitors stunning landscapes and the chance to partake in outdoor activities. These include fishing, walking, golf, cycling, horse riding and many more. So whether you enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside and some refreshing walks or more adrenaline filled activities, the park has something for you.
Mid Wales is synonymous with fresh air, mountains and relaxation. There are many market towns to enjoy and explore and you can explore the area on the quiet country roads that make a great location for touring. The Berwyn Mountains to the north, provide a spectacular backdrop to some small villages and towns in this sparely populated area of Wales. The Rhaeadr Valley is famous for having the highest waterfall in Wales, the Pistyll Rhaeadr. the water falls over rocks and takes a plunge of approx 240 feet. There is also the Fairy Bridge, a natural stone arch over the river between the falls. The great natural site has provided generations of artists, poets and travellers with plenty of inspiration.
The North Wales Borderlands include the area between Snowdonia and Chester, it has great Welsh character and the range of things to see and do here means it is well worth a visit. Those seeking a relaxing break are well served with many restaurants, pubs and villages, those seeking a bit of history and culture can explore the castles and houses of historic repute. Visitors seeking more active pursuits will enjoy the walking opportunities here, there are also golf courses where you can practice your game. For adrenaline junkies there are white-water activities what is sure to get you thrilled and excited.
Rhyl & Prestatyn have the two of biggest amusements parks, you can practice go-carting or go bowling. There is plenty to do here to keep the whole family amused. Wrexham is the main city in the region and it hosts international rugby and football matches, fans can go and experience the great atmosphere there on match days.
The Snowdonia Mountains and surrounding coastal area is a firm favourite among visitors. Snowdonia with its splendid scenery has the highest mountains in Wales. It is a well known tourist spot, people from across the UK and beyond come here each year, the area is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the coastline located close by is deemed a Heritage Coast making for a wonderful location.
Snowdonia is great for outdoor activities, you can walk to the top of Mt Snowdon, walk through the farmland, enjoy cycling on the various cycle routes and enjoy the local scenery whilst either cycling or walking. This region is famous for its long sandy beaches, you can relax on the beach and enjoy walks along the beach in the evenings. The Lleyn Peninsula in the northwest is famous as a surfer’s paradise where the surf is thought to be one of the best in the UK and attracts surfing enthusiasts from all over the area.
Pembrokeshire is in the South West of Wales and is characterised by its inspiring coastal area, it has sea on three sides. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park includes the whole costal area, the coastline is indeed a joy to behold, it has been referred to by many that go there as Wales best kept secret. Pembrokeshire is a haven for those seeking the great outdoors and outdoor activities, there are a number of companies that specialise in providing a huge range of activities. If you like outdoor activities you are spoilt for choice here, these include climbing, water-sports such as Sailing, Scuba diving, Surfing, Windsurfing and Canoeing.
With its enviable coastline Pembrokeshire beaches are among the best in the UK. Barafundle Bay and Whitesands are two great beach areas indeed Pembrokeshire’s beaches has been awarded the internationally recognised Blue Flags that are given to coastal areas which adhere to the highest of standards in facilities, water, safety and environmental management among others.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
