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Welcome to Wales - Self-drive Tour
Discover Wales' rugged coastlines and hidden coves. Visit Cardiff, Caerphilly Castle, and discover the smallest city in Britain, St Davids. Explore Wales with a self-drive tour!
Wales Escorted Tours
Welcome to Wales, a land that feels like a fairy tale come to life, rich with enchantment and intrigue! Tucked away in the western part of the United Kingdom, this captivating country is a hidden gem filled with stunning natural landscapes, deep-rooted history, and a vibrant modern spirit that will touch the heart of every traveller.
From the instant you step onto Welsh soil, you'll be embraced by an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness. The renowned hospitality of the Welsh people is palpable, wrapping around you like a cosy blanket. Here, the past and present coexist beautifully, creating a rich tapestry woven with stories, legends, and a cultural heritage that is both unique and inviting.
As you traverse this remarkable landscape, each castle, ancient ruin, and charming village whispers tales of yore, allowing you to connect with the dreams and aspirations of those who came before you. No wonder this land has inspired countless poets, writers, and artists; it has a magic that revives the spirit and stirs the imagination.
For nature enthusiasts, Wales is nothing short of a paradise. The rugged coastline stretches majestically, revealing dramatic cliffs that rise starkly against the wild Atlantic waves. These cliffs are interspersed with sandy coves that offer a moment of solitude and reflection. Quaint fishing villages dot the shore, each telling a story of community and resilience against the elements.
Venturing inland, you'll find the countryside unfurling in all its glory; rolling hills undulate gracefully, verdant valleys cradle murmuring streams, and majestic mountains invite you to challenge their heights. Eryri National Park, known as Snowdonia, is a jewel in Wales' crown, offering thrilling hiking trails and serene landscapes where you can lose yourself and reconnect with nature.
Wales is also a treasure trove for history lovers. The sheer number of castles and fortresses scattered across the landscape serves as a testament to its medieval past, evoking a sense of awe-inspiring and poignant grandeur. Iconic structures like Caernarfon, Conwy, and Cardiff Castles each carry their narratives, allowing you to wander through time and imagine the lives of knights, noblewomen, and artisans who once walked these halls. These places aren't just relics; they are portals into a world filled with chivalry and intrigue, allowing you to feel a part of something greater.
Yet, Wales is not only about its storied past; it proudly embraces its traditions and cultural heritage. The Welsh language, melodic and rich, echoes through many towns and villages, lending a sense of identity and continuity in a rapidly changing world. As you immerse yourself in local culture, you'll discover lively festivals bursting with music, traditional dances, and age-old customs that celebrate the spirit of the Welsh people. Each event is an invitation to share in their joy, laughter, and community.
The culinary scene in Wales is equally inviting. Get ready to embark on a delightful journey for your taste buds! With a focus on locally sourced ingredients, the flavours reflect the country's agricultural richness and breathtaking landscapes. Enjoying a meal in a quaint pub or a cosy tearoom offers sustenance and an experience woven with love and care. For those seeking a genuine culinary adventure, the growing number of Michelin-starred restaurants highlights Wales' rising prominence in fine dining.
Whether you're looking for thrilling escapades in the great outdoors, eager to delve deep into history and culture, or simply seeking a tranquil retreat from the hustle of everyday life, Wales promises to be a destination that resonates within your soul. The harmonious blend of ancient and modern creates an atmosphere that is at once comforting and refreshing.
So, as you prepare for this journey, let your heart be open to the wonders awaiting you in Wales. Pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to be captivated by a land where every corner holds a story, and each encounter leaves an indelible mark on your memory. Welcome to Wales—a truly magical travel experience awaits!
Group and Tailormade Wales Holidays
Our Local Travel Experts in Wales
Our local partner in Wales is one of the premier inbound travel businesses in the country. They offer bespoke guided tours to explore the country's hidden gems. With knowledgeable local guides, they aim to immerse you in Wales' captivating culture, landscapes, and historic landmarks. Adding special little touches to ensure you get a fully authentic travel experience, they are ready and waiting to welcome you to Wales.
Welcome to Wales
The history of Wales is truly captivating. This land is steeped in tales of courage, resilience, and cultural richness. From ancient times to the present day, this enchanting country has witnessed a journey of triumphs and challenges that have shaped its unique identity. The story of Wales begins thousands of years ago when the Celts settled in these lands, bringing their language, customs, and traditions that still endure today. Throughout history, Wales has often been a land of resistance, facing invasions and battles from neighbouring kingdoms and foreign powers.
In the medieval period, Wales was divided into several independent kingdoms, each ruled by its own princes. However, it was during the 13th century that the Welsh faced their greatest challenge—the invasion by the English under King Edward I. This tumultuous period saw the construction of numerous impressive castles, such as Caernarfon and Conwy, as the English sought to subdue the Welsh and establish their dominance.
The 15th century brought a glimmer of hope with the rise of Owain Glyndŵr, a Welsh nobleman who led a rebellion against English rule. Though ultimately unsuccessful, Glyndŵr's legacy remains a symbol of Welsh resistance and national pride.
Wales' history took a significant turn in the 19th and 20th centuries with the growth of industry and mining, particularly in the South. The coal and iron industries boomed, bringing prosperity to some and harsh working conditions for many. During this time, a strong sense of community and identity emerged among the working class, giving rise to the labour movement and a desire for more autonomy.
In the 20th century, Wales faced challenges preserving its language and culture but achieved notable milestones. In 1920, the first National Eisteddfod, a celebration of Welsh culture, was held, and the Welsh language was granted official status in 1967. In recent decades, Wales has experienced a revival of its language and traditions, with increasing support for Welsh-medium education and cultural events. The devolution of power in the late 1990s also led to establishing the National Assembly for Wales, granting the country a measure of self-governance.
Today, as you explore Wales, you will encounter a nation that cherishes its history while embracing modernity. The landscape is dotted with ancient castles, standing proudly amidst awe-inspiring scenery. The Welsh language continues to thrive, and a renaissance in Welsh produce and food is sure to delight visitors. Above all, you will find warm and welcoming people eager to share their history and heritage with visitors worldwide.
Welsh Wildlife
As you venture into the heart of Wales, prepare to be enchanted by a wildlife wonderland that seems to have sprung from the pages of a fairy tale. Amidst the rolling hills, lush valleys, and rugged coastline, a diverse array of creatures call this land their home, creating a symphony of sights and sounds that will leave you in awe. So, grab your binoculars and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Welsh wildlife.
Embrace the serenity of Wales' countryside, where ancient woodlands whisper secrets of the past and gentle rivers wind their way through the landscape. You may be fortunate to glimpse the elusive red squirrel as it darts among the trees. With its tufted ears and vibrant russet coat, this charming native species adds a touch of magic to the woodlands. As you venture further, you'll discover the skies above Wales are alive with feathered wonders. Once on the brink of extinction, the majestic red kite now soars high, its graceful silhouette a symbol of conservation success. Watch in awe as these magnificent raptors ride the thermals, their forked tails distinguishing them from other birds of prey.
But the skies have more in store for you as you feast your eyes on the spectacle of seabird colonies along the rugged coastline. The Pembrokeshire cliffs, in particular, are a bustling metropolis for puffins, razorbills, and guillemots. These comical seabirds offer a captivating show as they plunge into the sparkling waters below to find their next meal. For marine enthusiasts, the waters surrounding Wales offer a mesmerizing marine world to explore. Boat tours take you out to sea, where you may encounter playful dolphins dancing in the waves. These intelligent creatures often put on a delightful show, leaping and frolicking alongside the boat, seemingly delighted to have you as an audience. Venture inland, and you might be fortunate enough to spot the regal red deer, the largest land mammal in the country. Listen carefully for the haunting sound of the male deer's bellow as the sun sets, echoing through the valleys during the mating season.
In the west, the Cardigan Bay area welcomes visitors to witness the fascinating lives of harbour and grey seals. These endearing creatures bask in the sun on quiet beaches and rocky outcrops, occasionally peeking curiously at onlookers. Wales is also home to several wildlife reserves and sanctuaries, each playing a vital role in preserving and protecting its precious biodiversity. Here, conservation efforts have paved the way for reintroducing species such as the pine marten and the iconic osprey, whose impressive nests are often a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. .
In this enchanting land, nature thrives, weaving its magic through the landscape and captivating the hearts of all who tread upon its soil. Whether you're a dedicated wildlife lover or simply seeking a deeper connection with the natural world, Wales promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of its wildlife wonderland.