Wales

Travel to Wales

Wales is a country of stunning natural beauty and rich history located in the west of the United Kingdom. It is renowned for its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and beautiful national parks, including Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons. Visitors to Wales can explore ancient castles, such as Caernarfon Castle and Cardiff Castle, and marvel at the beautiful St. David's Cathedral. In addition, Wales is home to charming towns and villages, including the colorful Portmeirion and the Victorian seaside resort of Llandudno.

Wales is also known for its cultural heritage, with the Welsh language and traditional music still being celebrated today. Visitors can experience this culture by attending an Eisteddfod, a traditional Welsh festival, or by enjoying a pint in a local pub.

Foodies will love the local cuisine, with traditional dishes like Welsh cakes, bara brith, and cawl being popular. Wales is also home to many world-class restaurants, offering fresh seafood and local produce.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Wales is a paradise. The country is perfect for hiking, cycling, and water sports, with activities such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing available along the stunning coastline. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled holiday or a relaxing break, Wales has something for everyone.

Getting to Wales

There are various ways to get to Wales, depending on where you are coming from. If you are traveling from within the United Kingdom, you can easily drive to Wales using the motorway network, or take a train or bus to one of the major towns or cities. There are also a number of regional airports throughout Wales, with flights to and from other parts of the UK and Europe.

If you are traveling from further afield, the most convenient option may be to fly into one of the major airports in London, Manchester, or Birmingham, and then take a connecting flight or train to Wales. Alternatively, you can take a direct train from London Euston to major Welsh cities such as Cardiff, Swansea, or Bangor.

If you prefer to travel by sea, there are ferry services that connect Wales to Ireland, with crossings from Dublin to Holyhead, and Rosslare to Fishguard. There are also ferry services between the UK and France, with some services connecting with Welsh ports such as Pembroke Dock.

Alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences in Wales

For those looking to explore Wales in a more unique way, there are a variety of alternative and off the beaten track stays and experiences to choose from. One option is to stay in a yurt or shepherd's hut, which can be found in many rural locations throughout Wales. These cozy and rustic accommodations provide a one-of-a-kind experience, with the opportunity to enjoy the stunning natural surroundings while still having access to modern amenities.

Another option is to book a stay at a farm or rural guesthouse, where you can immerse yourself in Welsh culture and learn about traditional farming practices. Many of these properties offer home-cooked meals made with locally-sourced ingredients, and some even provide the opportunity to help out with farm chores, such as milking cows or feeding sheep.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Wales offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and coasteering. Coasteering is a particularly unique activity that involves climbing, jumping, and swimming along the rocky coastline, and is a thrilling way to explore the rugged Welsh coast.

Finally, for those looking to connect with Wales' rich cultural heritage, there are a number of unique experiences to be had, from attending a traditional Welsh music festival to visiting the workshops of local artisans and craftspeople. Some properties even offer courses and workshops where you can learn traditional skills such as woodworking, weaving, or pottery.

Overall, Wales is a country full of unique and off-the-beaten-track experiences, and there is something to suit every interest and budget. Whether you're looking to get back to nature, connect with Welsh culture, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet, there is no shortage of non-specialist and alternative stays and experiences to choose from.

Top 10 things to do in Wales

1. Explore the historic castles - Wales is known for its many ancient castles, such as Caernarfon Castle and Cardiff Castle, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the country's rich history.
2. Take a hike in Snowdonia - The stunning Snowdonia National Park is home to Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, and offers some of the best hiking and outdoor activities in the country.
3. Visit St. David's Cathedral - This beautiful cathedral is located in the smallest city in the UK and is the resting place of Saint David, the patron saint of Wales.
4. Discover the beauty of the Brecon Beacons - Another stunning national park, the Brecon Beacons offer rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque waterfalls, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
5. Visit the Welsh National Museum - This free museum in Cardiff offers a fascinating look at Welsh history, culture, and art, with exhibits ranging from ancient Celtic artifacts to contemporary Welsh art.
6. Explore the colorful Portmeirion Village - This charming Italian-style village in North Wales is full of colorful buildings, gardens, and cafes, and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
7. Take a trip to Llandudno and the Great Orme - This Victorian seaside resort offers stunning views of the coast and the Great Orme headland, with attractions such as a cable car ride and a historic pier.
8. Visit the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park - This stunning coastal park offers miles of beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife such as seals and dolphins.
9. Enjoy traditional Welsh cuisine - From Welsh cakes to cawl, Welsh cuisine is full of unique and delicious dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients, perfect for foodies.
10. Attend a Welsh festival or event - From the Eisteddfod, a traditional Welsh music and poetry festival, to the Hay Festival of Literature and the Arts, Wales is home to a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

The climate of Wales

The climate of Wales is classified as oceanic or temperate maritime, with mild winters and cool summers. The country's location on the western coast of the United Kingdom means that it is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, which brings mild temperatures and frequent rainfall.

Winters in Wales are generally cold to mild, with temperatures averaging around 5-8°C (41-46°F) in January, the coldest month. Snow is not uncommon in some parts of the country, particularly in the mountainous regions, but it usually doesn't last long.

Summers in Wales are also mild, with temperatures averaging around 15-19°C (59-66°F) in July, the warmest month. While temperatures can occasionally reach into the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F), they rarely go much higher than that.

Rainfall is a common feature of Wales' climate, with precipitation occurring throughout the year. The western regions of the country tend to be wetter than the east, with the highest rainfall occurring in the mountains and hills. However, there can be significant variation in rainfall between different parts of the country, with some areas receiving much less rainfall than others.