Wales | Countryside, Castles & Coastline
A lovely mix of empowering landscapes, scenic beaches, and jagged cliffs
Trip Highlights:
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Explore stunning coastline, National Parks, and lovely countryside
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Summit one of Wales' most iconic mountains
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Discover unique landmarks such as castles, ruins, gardens, and caves
Welcome to Wales – a small but mighty country within the United Kingdom, where jagged coastlines, rolling green hills, and over 600 castles tell stories of Celtic roots and centuries past. You’ll hear the lyrical Welsh language, see signs you might not be able to pronounce, and feel the country’s quiet pride in its culture — from rugby (the national obsession) to coal mining history, from soul-stirring male voice choirs to the simple fact that sheep outnumber people.
Often skipped over for the “big names” of the British Isles — London, Scotland, Ireland — Wales hums along with a charm and mysticism all its own. About the size of New Jersey, it packs an incredible amount into its borders: dramatic scenery, fascinating history, and a true sense of adventure.
Our journey begins on the rugged Gower Peninsula, the U.K.’s very first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — and for good reason. Think sweeping beaches, craggy cliffs, and warm welcomes (or as the locals say, a cwtsh — a hug).
From there, we’ll spend our days hiking miles of wild, windswept coastline, exploring ancient castles, wandering through gardens and tiny seaside towns, and venturing into nature reserves and national parks. We’ll stand o the summit a few of Wales’ most iconic peaks, including Mt. Snowdon 3,560 ft., then retreat each evening to handpicked hotels — some hidden by lakes, others tucked into lush parkland.
The trip wraps up in whimsical Portmeirion, with easy connections back to London or onward to your next U.K. stop.
Trip Itinerary
Transfer from Paddington Train station to Swansea, then taxi to Penmaen. Meet your guide(s) and groups for orientation and dinner.
Today’s tour begins with a stunning 5-mile loop hike through beautiful parklands to the South Wales coastline with a visit to the lovely Three Cliffs Bay. We explore fascinating bone caves, and the 12th Century ruins of Pennard Castle. A truly delightful day of exploring the Gower Peninsula, UK’s first AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), designated in 1956. Return to our hotel in Penmaen.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 5 miles
We head to the coast again today for another 5-mile loop hike, which hugs the evocative Pembrokeshire National Park coastline. Along route we visit the 13th Century St Govan’s Chapel, a tiny chapel, steeped in myths and legends. A brief ramble around one of Wales’ wonderful harbor towns, Tenby, completes the day. Transfer to St Davids where we spend the next two nights.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 5 miles
Transfer: 1.5 hours
A short drive along the coast delivers us to Martin’s Haven where we catch a ferry to Skomer Island for a day of exploring the National Nature Reserve famous for its puffins, but boasting an array of wildlife including dolphins, razorbills and much more. Return to our hotel in St Davids.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 3 miles
Today’s 3-mile loop takes us along Caerfai Beach to St Non’s Chapel, the reputed birthplace of Wales’ patron saint, Saint David. Return to St Davids for a visit to the medieval ruins of St Davids Bishop’s Palace and the fabulous St Davids Cathedral. Next we head to North Wales for four days to explore the majestic mountains of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia).
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 3 miles
Transfer: 3 hours
Today we board the Traditional Diesel Service train to the summit of Wales’ highest peak, Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon, 3,560 ft.). Afterward, visit the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle and explore the unique village of Portmeirion.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 2 miles
The imposing Conwy Castle is our first stop today. Built by Edward I in the 1280s as a statement of intent towards the conquering of the Welsh. Next we visit Bondnant Garden, founded in 1874, and boasting 80 acres of gardens. Return to our hotel in Portmeirion.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 2 miles
We head south towards Cadair Idris, one of Wales most brooding and mystical mountains, for what promises to be our hardest, but most rewarding hike of the trip followed by a visit to Harlech Castle. Return to Portmeirion for our final night.
Distance: 7 miles
Elevation gain/loss: 2384 ft. (With summit, 2930 ft.)
Today, we depart to North Wales as we journey south to the charming village of Crickhowell, nestled in the Brecon Beacons National Park, our final destination. Along the way, we stop at the Big Pit National Coal Museum for an underground tour of a historic coal mine at a depth of 300 ft.
No significant elevation gain or loss.
Distance: 1 mile
Transfer: 3 hours
On our final full day, we embark on a fantastic circular hike directly from our hotel. The Dragon’s Back, one of our favorite routes in the eastern Brecon Beacons, offers stunning views and a rewarding challenge. We start by ascending Waun Fach before looping back to Crickhowell, passing an ancient hill fort and descending along the Dragon’s Back ridge. Return to Crickhowell and celebrate the conclusion to our unforgettable Welsh adventure.
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation gain/loss: 2132 ft. (With summit, 2660 ft.)
Ryder-Walker will provide a short 5 minute transfer to Minffordd Train Station this morning where you can easily access transportation to your gateway city.
