Wales | Wales: Gower, Pembrokeshire, and Snowdonia
Wild coastlines, ancient castles, and iconic peaks
Trip Highlights:
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Explore stunning coastlines, historic castles, National Parks and peaks
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Visit the Gower Peninsula, Britain's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
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Summit one of Wales' most iconic mountains: Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Welcome to Wales, a small but mighty country within the United Kingdom, where jagged coastlines, rolling green hills, rugged mountains, and more than 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 experience the country’s deep pride in its culture, from rugby and coal mining history to soul-stirring male voice choirs and the simple fact that sheep outnumber people.
Often overlooked for the “big names” of the British Isles, Wales has a character and mysticism all its own. About the size of New Jersey, it packs an incredible variety of landscapes, history, and adventure into its borders.
Our journey travels from the Gower Peninsula to the Pembrokeshire Coast and north to Snowdonia (Eryri National Park), combining some of Wales’ finest coastal walking with its celebrated mountain landscapes.
We begin on the Gower Peninsula, the first place in Britain to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with sweeping beaches, limestone cliffs, rolling countryside, and a warm Welsh welcome. From Gower, we continue along the wild Pembrokeshire Coast, walking spectacular seaside trails past hidden coves, dramatic headlands, tiny villages, ancient castles, and protected nature reserves. Offshore islands and coastal cliffs provide important habitat for seabirds, including puffins.
From the coast, we turn north to Snowdonia (Eryri National Park), where the scenery shifts dramatically from coast to mountains. We ride the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest peak in Wales, and hike Cadair Idris, one of the country’s most legendary mountains.
Along the way, we explore castles, gardens, seaside towns, and historic sites before wrapping up in the whimsical village of Portmeirion, created by Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis as his vision of an ideal village, with colorful architecture and gardens inspired by Mediterranean towns.
At day’s end, we retreat to handpicked hotels, some nestled beside tranquil lakes and others tucked into lush parkland. Evenings are a chance to savor Wales’ hearty cuisine and warm hospitality, with local specialties including lamb, freshly caught seafood, farmhouse cheeses, and seasonal produce.
Trip Itinerary
Transfer from Paddington Train station to Swansea, then taxi to Penmaen. Meet your guide(s) and groups for orientation and dinner.
The day begins with a scenic loop hike from the hotel through parklands leading to the South Wales coastline and the lovely Three Cliffs Bay. Along the way, we explore the fascinating 12th century ruins of Pennard Castle. It is a delightful introduction to the Gower, the U.K.’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated in 1956. Return to our hotel in Penmaen.
Distance: 5 miles
We return to the coast for a 5-mile loop hike along the dramatic Pembrokeshire National Park coastline. The route includes a visit to the 13th century St Govan’s Chapel, a tiny sanctuary steeped in myth and legend. We pause for a stroll through the charming harbor town of Tenby before continuing on to St Davids, where we spend the night.
Distance: 5 miles
Transfer: 1.5 hours
A short drive along the coast brings us to Martin’s Haven, where we catch the ferry to Skomer Island for a day exploring its National Nature Reserve. Famous for puffins, the island is also home to dolphins, razorbills, and a wide array of other wildlife. Return to our hotel in St Davids.
Distance: 3 miles
Today’s loop follows Caerfai Beach to St Non’s Chapel, the reputed birthplace of Wales’ patron saint, St David. We return to visit the medieval ruins of St Davids Bishop’s Palace and the magnificent St Davids Cathedral. From here, we continue north to explore the majestic mountains of Snowdonia (Eryri National Park) and on to Portmeirio,where we will spend the next three nights.
Distance: 3 miles
Transfer: 3 hours
Today we journey into the heart of Snowdonia (Eryri National Park) and board the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway for the scenic ride to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales’ highest peak at 3560 ft. On a clear day, sweeping views extend across the rugged mountains of North Wales and beyond. After descending by train, we continue to impressive Caernarfon Castle, one of Wales’ great medieval fortresses, before returning to our hotel in Portmeirion.
Distance: 2 miles
We head south to Cadair Idris, one of Wales’ most storied and scenic peaks, for a hike that is sure to be a highlight of the trip. The route climbs steadily and rewards us with sweeping views and a tremendous sense of accomplishment. We return to our hotel in Portmeirion for our final night.
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation gain/loss: 2585 ft. (With summit, 2930 ft.)
Ryder-Walker will provide a one time morning transfer to Birmingham Train station where you can easily access transportation to your gateway city or next travel destination.
