Wales Road Trip Guide: Itinerary For Epic Adventure

When it comes to any travel experience, you must put two things in order. First is hiring a good, safe and affordable vehicle. The second one is choosing the very best itinerary that’ll allow you to explore the top places in your chosen destination. Planning a Wales road trip takes a lot of time. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you out.

We have compiled a comprehensive list of all the places you should visit, possible accommodation options, as well as tips and tricks that will help you have the vacation of your dreams. No matter if you want to marvel around narrow cobbled streets and shop in some ancient market town or visit beaches and admire coastal vistas, you’re sure to have a pleasant experience on this Wales road trip.

Table Of Contents

1 Getting To Wales
2 Wales Road Trip Itinerary
3 Tips For A Successful Wales Road Trip
4 What Time Of Year Is Best To Drive Around Wales?
5 Where To Stay During Wales Road Trip
6 Frequently Asked Questions
7 Conclusion

Getting To Wales

Wales is located to the west of England in central Great Britain. Starting your road trip from London? Your best bet is to hit the M4, which will take you right past Cardiff and smack dab in the middle of South Wales. You can also take the scenic drive via the A40 and M40 and pass through Colne Valley Regional Park. Those coming from Exeter and the rest of Southwest England can take the M5 right to the M4 and won’t have trouble reaching Wales.

The road from Birmingham to Wales is pretty straightforward, as there’s no shortage of roads to take you there. Whether you want to go to South Wales or hit the West Wales coast, there are plenty of options, like the M5 and M54.

Driving down from the Scottish Highlands to visit Wales? Take the A82, A85 and A9 to the major cities. The A74/M74 and M6 routes will take you from Glasgow to the Midlands, and you can choose your Wales road trip path from there. Stopping by Loch Lomond and Queen Elizabeth Forest Park can be a fun detour along the way.

If you want to learn about the highest road in Wales, go here.

Wales Road Trip Itinerary

Wales is home to three national parks, numerous historical sights and coastal towns, it can take you weeks or even months to explore them all. Here is the best possible itinerary for the road trip around Wales in 7 days. We recommend starting with the most iconic one, Snowdonia.

Stop 1: Traverse The Mystical Landscape Of Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia is the crown jewel of Wales. It’s the country’s largest national park and home to pristine nature and scenic landscapes. A Welsh road trip would not be complete without Snowdonia.

Mount Snowdon

Mount Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa, is the tallest mountain in Wales and one of the most popular travel destinations in the region. It’s been described as ‘the busiest mountain in Britain,’ and for good reasons. Hundreds of thousands of visitors climb the mountain every year and it’s getting more popular.

There’s no shortage of leisurely activities on Mount Snowdon. Those who want to do some climbing can enjoy the six main paths up the mountain. Rock climbing is a popular activity, with the mountain boasting the first-ever recorded climb in Britain. There are also mountain biking trails for those who prefer to ride on two wheels.

If climbing, biking and mountaineering aren’t your forte, consider taking the Snowdon Mountain Railway from Llanberis to the mountain’s peak. The 4.7-mile mountain railway will take you past gorges, waterfalls and many more.

Zip World

What better way to take in Snowdonia’s spectacular views than with an adrenaline boost? Zip World lets you get a bird’s eye view of the national park while soaring through the sky. Fans of ziplining should be familiar with Zip World since it has the fastest zipline in the world and the longest one in Europe.

Penrhyn Slate Quarry and Betws-y-Coed are good road trip stops if you want to get your adrenaline pumping at Zip World. The former is home to Zip World Velocity, the aforementioned ultra-fast zipline.

Fairy Falls Waterfall

Snowdonia isn’t all just stunning views of mountains and cliffsides. Drive by Trefriw to see the outstanding natural beauty of the Fairy Falls waterfall. It’s a wonderful sight to behold and a must-stop for any North Wales road trip.

You can take the A55 or the A5 to reach the A470 and make a turn at Llanrwst. It’ll take you close to Trefriw Woollen Mills, where it’s just a short walk to the waterfall.

Mount Tryfan

Another wonderful mountain in Snowdonia’s repertoire, Mount Tryfan, is one of the most beloved peaks in Britain. It’s not as tall as Snowdon, sitting at 917 metres in height, but it’s the more iconic mountain. It’s notably harder to climb than Snowdon, with more scrambling and tricky routes along the way.

You can visit Mount Tryfan as you’re driving along the A5 to or from Zip World. It’s near Llyn Ogwen and offers wonderful views and mountaineering opportunities. You can find parking at Ogwen Car Park.

Adventure Parc Snowdonia

Adventure Parc Snowdonia is an outdoor attraction nestled near the iconic Snowdonia. It’s a perfect spot for thrill-seekers. The centrepiece is the inland surfing lagoon, which generates consistent and powerful waves that are suitable for surfers of all levels.

Other than surfing, the park can offer you a range of activities that cater to different interests and abilities. Some of the most popular ones are high rope courses, zip lines and artificial caving experiences. And if you get hungry from these high-intensity activities, there is a bar and restaurant where you can have a meal and refreshing drinks.

Stop 2: Discover The Rugged Beauty Of Brecon Beacons National Park

After basking in the beauty of Snowdonia National Park, the next stop on your scenic drive is Brecon Beacons. Yet another marvel of natural beauty, this national park is a key part of any Welsh road trip itinerary. As interesting as it is beautiful, this South Wales gem has more than its fair share of attractions.

Several Wales roads can take you from Snowdonia to Brecon Beacons National Park. The A470 and A483 are the go-to routes from North Wales to these wonderful mountains.

Walk Brecon Beacons Mountains

The Brecon Beacons mountain range offers unparalleled scenery and some of the best hiking trails in the country. It’s home to hills, caves, lakes, ponds, mineral lines and so much more.

While its peaks aren’t quite as high as Snowdon, they offer breathtaking views nonetheless. Pen y Fan and Corn Du are the iconic duo of the Brecon Beacons peaks and favourites among hikers. Whether you prefer easy or challenging routes, this mountain range offers a plethora of choices.

Craig-y-Nos Country Park

After enjoying the peaks of the Brecon Beacons, it’s time to make your way to Craig-y-Nos Country Park. The 40-ace Victorian garden is home to the homonymous castle as well as lakes, meadows, woodland paths and picnic areas galore. It’s the perfect place to take your Wales road trip for some safe and pleasant fun.

The A4067 will take you to Craig-y-Nos directly. The A40 connects to it in the north, while the M4 and A4221 connect in the south.

Hay on Wye

Hay on Wye is a world-renowned market town and community situated on the border between Wales and England. It’s famous for its many bookshops and being the National Book Town of Wales.

It hosts the annual Hay Festival, a literature festival between May and June. The festival was once described as the ‘Woodstock of the Mind’ by Bill Clinton. You should visit Warren and Hay Castle for some interesting sights. The A438 will take you close to Wales’ book paradise; you just have to switch to the B4350, either near Glasbury or Whitney Sawmills.

Waterfall Country

You’ll find Waterfall Country on the other side of Brecon Beacons National Park, near Glynneath. As its name suggests, there are plenty of waterfalls to see in this corner of the park. Tributaries of the river Neath form these majestic cascades, and they’re a sight to behold. There are over a dozen waterfalls scattered throughout Waterfall Country.

You should visit as many as you can if your Wales road trip schedule allows for it. Whatever you do, you mustn’t miss the Four Waterfalls Walk. It’s a nice, scenic walking trail that lets you see Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd yr Eira, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn and Sgwd y Pannwr. There’s a car park near the waterfall trail, so you won’t have trouble taking a break from your road trip.

Carreg Cennen Castle

The historic Carreg Cennen Castle is the next stop on your Wales road trip route. Admire the imposing castle walls and tower designs and then sit down for some tea in the tea rooms. While little remains of the castle and its fortifications, there’s still plenty to explore inside and out.

Carreg Cennen Castle sits on the western end of the Brecon Beacons, near the village of Trapp. The A483 and A474 can take you close to multiple roads that lead to them.

Stop 3: Uncover The Coastal Charms Of Pembrokeshire

Take your Wales road trip far enough southwest and you’ll reach the next stop—Pembrokeshire. The county is known for its spectacular coast and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park that encompasses it. Castles, beaches, lagoons, and diverse wildlife await you on the southern end of Wales’ west coast.

Tenby

Tenby is a quaint harbour town on the southern edge of the Pembrokeshire coast. It has a long and illustrious history, with many sights worth exploring. The mediaeval castle and town walls are a nice and historic treat, but most people come here for the beautiful beaches.

Tenby is home to some of the most gorgeous sandy beaches in Wales. If your Wales road trip itinerary includes beach hopping, Tenby is the place to visit. North Beach is the most iconic of the town’s beaches and it’s a good place to start. The Harbour and Castle beaches are worth checking out as well. The A477 and A478 will take you to this sandy beach haven.

Saundersfoot

A bit to Tenby’s north, you’ll run into Saundersfoot, another Pembrokeshire Coast holiday destination. The seaside town is an essential stop for any Southwest Wales road trip.

It’s part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and features gorgeous parks, great food and sandy beaches. Saundersfoot Beach, Freshwater, West Beach and Coppet Beach are particularly good choices for a sunny day out.

Blue Lagoone

Abereiddi is home to the Blue Lagoon, an idyllic spot popular among tourists in the region. The former slate quarry is now a haven with crystal clear water surrounded by jagged cliffs.

The Blue Lagoon is a popular swimming, kayaking, cliff-diving and coasteering destination packed with gorgeous views. Nearby, you can find the famous Abereiddy Beach, a haven for wildlife and beautiful coastal scenery.

Cardigan Bay

Wales’ west coast features a combination of coast and countryside like no other. Cardigan Bay is an inlet of the Irish Sea, bordered by Gwynned in the north and Pembrokeshire in the south. It’s famous for its clear water and bottlenose dolphin sightings galore.

There is so much to do along this wonderful West Wales Coast Path, with numerous charming towns and natural sights to enjoy. Chief among them is Aberaeron. This peaceful Welsh seaside town is known for its sandy beach and great ice cream.

Going southwest on the A487, you’ll reach the town of Cardigan. Even more beautiful beaches await you here, including Mwnt and Poppit Sands. Visit Cardigan Castle and enjoy the many cafes in the town while taking a breather from driving.

Afterwards, cruise along the A487 to Newport Beach and Dinas Island, essential stops for any Wales coastal path road trip.

Manor Wildlife Park

You’ll find Manor Wildlife Park back on the southern end of Pembrokeshire. Driving along the A477 Wales road and switching to the B4318 will lead you to the 52-acre parkland. Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted at the diverse and exotic animals they can find in the park. There are meerkats, lemurs, squirrel monkeys, ostriches and much more at this wildlife haven.

Manorbier Beach

Just a 15-minute drive from Tenby, Manorbier Beach is another go-to place for relaxation on Pembrokeshire’s south coast. It’s a hidden gem that will captivate you and leave you wanting more. The sandy beach lies on a part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path and attracts visitors from Tenby and nearby areas.

Pembroke Castle

The birthplace of the Tudor Dynasty and Henry VII, Pembroke Castle, is a historic location you must add to your Wales road trip itinerary. It’s an enormous oval castle with an even bigger circular keep around it.

Descend and explore the prehistoric caves below the castle and check out its dungeons. There are plenty of exhibition rooms that feature display models and various weaponry, as well as a rich history.

You can take the Ridgeway or the A477 to Pembroke, where you’ll find this gorgeous castle. It’s a great stop after visiting the sandy beaches of Tenby and Manorbier.

If you want to have a seamless travel experience while you visit every stop in your Welsh road trip itinerary, contact SDVH today for superb MPV hire deals.

Stop 4: Sail To The Serene Shores Of Isle of Anglesey, North Wales

Take your Wales road trip back north to the wonderful island of Anglesey. It’s an area with plenty of nature and history to go around.

Newborough Warren & Ynys Llanddwyn

Newborough Warren and Ynys Llanddwyn are two parts of the Newborough National Nature Reserve. Both located on the southwestern coast of Anglesey in North Wales, Newborough and Llanddwyn offer road trip visitors diverse ecosystems to explore. Newborough alone consists of beaches, sand dunes and pine forestland.

Take a drive through the Newborough woodland before making a stop at the car park near Llanddwyn. Afterwards, you can explore the small tidal island surrounded by gorgeous beaches. Two routes around the island can take you to the remains of a mediaeval stone church as well as the first Llanddwyn lighthouse.

To reach these locations, take the A55 to the B4419, which will take you to Newborough. From there, you can choose your path through the woodland and the rest of southwest Anglesey.

Beaumaris Castle & Gaol

Take your Wales road trip to the southeastern part of Anglesey to Beaumaris Castle and Gaol. The famous, unfinished castle was built by Edward I to cement his authority in the Welsh region. It’s a spectacular monument despite its unfinished nature and stands as a testament to mediaeval engineering.

The Beaumaris Gaol is a later addition to the town, being built in 1829. The dimly lit corridors and dark history are fascinating to explore. The brutal prison is now a museum that won’t disappoint with its gloomy sights. It also has a UNESCO World Heritage Site title.

You can reach the castle and gaol via Pentraeth Road, going towards Llansadwrn and switching to the B5109.

Plas Newydd House and Garden

Plas Newydd is a country house surrounded by gardens and woodland, located on the northern bank of the Menai Strait. It’s one of Anglesey’s principal residences and showcases incredible flora on its grounds.

There’s a wide array of plants in the garden due to the mild conditions and weather. You can see tulips of various colours, magnolias, hydrangeas, Japanese maples and much more in these wonderful gardens.

The spring and summer are wonderful times to enjoy leisurely strolls and woodland walks at Plas Newydd House.

Holyhead

Don’t forget to make a stop at Holyhead during your Wales road trip. It’s the largest town and community in Anglesey and the biggest UK-Irish ferry port. The Holy Island is home to plenty of great places to visit while driving.

Stop by Parc Arfordirol Penrhos Coastal Park as you drive in through the A55. Hit the town afterwards and continue along the Anglesey Coastal Path. Visit the Penrhos Feilw Standing Stones for some ancient history. On your way out, you should stop at the charming Sea Shanty Cafe in Trearddur Bay for some coffee.

South Stack Lighthouse

The South Stack Lighthouse is another wonderful Holyhead location worth visiting on your Wales road trip. Situated on the summit of a small island off the northwest coast of Holy Island, this lighthouse once served as a warning to passing ships about treacherous rocks.

Its main light is visible from a distance of over 40 miles. The fascinating geology of the small island allows this lighthouse to shine even brighter as a Holyhead tourist attraction.

Stop 5: Wander The Coastline Of Gower Peninsula

Gower Peninsula is a top contender for the most beautiful place to visit on a southwest Wales road trip.

Rhossili Bay

The west coast of the Gower Peninsula features Rhossili Bay, one of the most popular parts of the county. It’s a marvellous road trip stop that offers many great sights and fun activities. It’s an iconic destination with panoramic views that reach from Ynys Lanwol to Worms Head.

Rhossili Bay Beach is especially fun to visit, and it’s easy to access from the nearby car park. While you’re there, make sure to visit Worms Head Island. The peninsula/tidal island has quite a bit of culture attached to it, along with some notable historic landmarks.

The B4247 Wales road will take you close to Rhossili, from where it’s a short trip to the beach or Worms Head.

Three Cliffs Bay

Three Cliffs Bay is known for being an especially scenic part of the Wales Coastal Path. Located in the south part of the Gower Peninsula, the bay is home to one of the UK’s most beloved beaches. It is surrounded by limestone cliffs and provides a breathtaking view of the sea. Swimming enthusiasts should be careful, as the tides and currents here can be dangerous.

Clyne Gardens

Clyne Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden spanning about 50 acres. Originally, established by the Vivian family, this place features a wide variety of themed gardens. You’ll find a rich variety of plant species. If you decide to pay a visit during the summer, you’ll get to witness a vibrant display of colours with blooming flowers.

Photographers will have a field day with all the amazing photo opportunities. Plus, you can also feast your eyes on the panoramic views of Swansea Bay. Overall, if you’re in search of a peaceful retreat, Clyne Gardens will provide you with the serene escapade of your dreams.

Oystermouth Castle

This area is dominated by coastal gems, but we also have a spot for history lovers. Oystermouth Castle is another castle with a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. It served as a defensive fortress and residence for noble families. The castle also played a strategic role in the conflicts between the Welsh and the Normans. Over time, the castle underwent various renovations and expansions. Now, it’s a beloved sight for many tourists who visit the Gower Peninsula.

Worm’s Head

Worm’s Head is a captivating and rugged promontory extending into the Bristol Channel. The name ‘Worm’ is derived from the old English word ‘wyrm’, which means serpent. For those who can appreciate nature, coastal walks and the allure of untamed landscapes, this place stands as an iconic destination. The prominent feature of this coastal spot is called ‘The Devil Bridge’. Worm’s Head isn’t only visually striking but also boasts diverse wildlife.

Stop 6: Experience Welsh Culture In Cardiff

The next stop on your Wales road trip itinerary is the capital city, Cardiff. The vibrant city of South Wales is rich in culture and history, but it offers more than that. There’s so much to do in this part of the country that you should make sure you have a few days to spare while checking it out.

Cardiff City

Cardiff City is an essential destination for any South Wales road trip. There’s something for everyone in this wonderful capital. Whether you want to explore the Cardiff city centre, its history and landmarks or hit the town and enjoy the Welsh food and nightlife, you won’t run out of activities any time soon.

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is a historic fortress with an impressive history that spans over 2000 years. It has seen all important eras of history and stands as a remarkable symbol of Wales’s heritage and cultural evolution. From Roman origins to mediaeval transformation and Victorian reconstruction, this landmark is a must-see spot.

To explore the castle, you’ll need to pay £14.50, while the ticket for children is £10.00. And once you’re done with the exploration, you can sit in the castle’s cafe and have a drink or eat a meal, all while admiring the best views of Cardiff.

Cardiff Bay

Once a bustling dockland, Cardiff Bay has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant waterfront area. This allowed it to become one of Cardiff’s most popular and picturesque destinations. You can stroll through the Cardiff Bay barrage or take your little ones to the playground, which consists of pretend shipwrecks that are buried in sand.

If you are a creative soul, you could check out the Wales Millenium Centre, an iconic art venue. It hosts a variety of events, such as cultural occasions, concerts and exhibitions. The area also boasts a range of water activities, including classic boat tours. The bay’s calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal setting for such activities.

National Museum Cardiff

This prominent cultural institution is a knowledge hub every tourist should consider visiting. The art collection you’ll find there includes impressive works by both Welsh and international artists. The museum also features archaeological artefacts that tell the story of Wales from prehistoric times to the present day. You can also explore the country’s geological history, diverse ecosystems and the variety of wildlife found in Wales.

One of the best things about the museum is that general admission is completely free of charge. Throughout the year, the museum also hosts events, lectures and activities for the public. If you’re lucky enough, you might stumble upon these events and get an even more enhanced learning experience.

Castell Coch

Castell Coch, also known as Red Castle, is a Victorian Gothic revival mansion nestled in the woodlands on the outskirts of Cardiff. Its fairytale-like aesthetics and rich history make it a captivating destination for those seeking a magical and atmospheric experience. It was built on the remains of a mediaeval fortress. The castle we see today is mainly the vision of the architect William Burges. The interior of the castle is equally impressive as its exterior, featuring lavish decorations, stained glass windows and elaborate woodwork. The surrounding beech wood also adds to the castle’s enchanting atmosphere. You can take leisurely walks along the area.

If you’re in for the long ride and looking to move to Cardiff, check out the best places to live in this city.

Stop 7: Explore Mediaeval Locations In Conwy

The last stop is a dream come true for anyone who likes to delve into old times. Here are the must-see spots

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle stands as one of the most well-preserved and impressive castles you can find in the United Kingdom. It was built by Edward I between the ages of 1283 and 1287. The design of the castle reflects both military functionality and architectural sophistication, so history enthusiasts will have a blast there.

As soon as you see it, you’ll notice the castle’s key features, its massive stone walls and eight impressive towers. You can climb them for panoramic views or explore their well-preserved interior. It’s a unique atmosphere that will transport you back in time.

Plas Mawr

Located in the heart of Conwy, Plas Mawr is a beautifully preserved Elizabethan townhouse. Its name translates to a ‘Great Hall’ and it certainly aptly describes the grandeur of this landmark. Its first owner, Robert Wynn, bought it for just £200, after which he put all his efforts into one goal – to turn it into the finest mansion of that era. The legend says that he is still there, stalking the walls of its creation.

The townhouse had many purposes over time. It was a courthouse, an art gallery and even a school. Now it’s a sought-after tourist attraction that many come to see each year.

Conwy Town Halls

Conwy Town Hall is nestled within the mediaeval walls of Conwy, which adds to its historical charm. It’s surrounded by cobbled streets and historic buildings. Previously, it served as a focal point for local governance and civic activities. Now, it’s an elegant structure with a clock tower, which visitors can pay a visit to. You can capture some awesome photos with a historical vibe for your Instagram feed.

LLandudno

Llandudno, often referred to as the Queen of Welsh Resorts, is a seaside town nestled in North Wales. Its appeal lies in the well-preserved architecture it boasts. The promenade has a lineup of charming houses and hotels, exuding a classic vibe.

The Great Orme, a massive limestone headland, dominates the landscape and provides breathtaking views. You can reach the summit by tramway or cable car. You can swim and enjoy various water sports here, but since there are no lifeguards, you should be extra careful. And if you’re interested in entertainment, there is a local theatre called Venue Cymru.

Conwy Brewery

If you thought that Conwy only had historical attractions to offer – think again. Conwy Brewery is famous for producing a diverse range of high-quality beers. The owners have been in the business for years and built a reputation for creating one-of-a-kind alcoholic drinks.

You can sip on traditionally made beers and get a taste of local flavours. For those interested in learning more about the brewing process, you have the option of embarking on a guided tour. You’ll get insight into the artistry behind the beers. Of course, as with every brewery tour at the very end, you’ll get to indulge in the beer sampling and taste all the diverse flavours you learned about.

Honourable Mentions

This gem has a lot more spectacular scenery to offer. So, we decided to include a few more stops you could add to your Wales road trip map.

Aber Falls (Gwyneed)

Aber Falls, or Rhaeadr Fawr in Welsh, is a waterfall nestled within the Snowdonia National Park. It’s a captivating waterfall spot surrounded by a picturesque landscape, which makes it quite popular among nature enthusiasts. The falls cascade about 37 metres down a rock face and are a mesmerising sight for everyone who witnessed it.

Portmeirion Tourist Village (Gwyneed)

Another gem located in Snowdonia, Portmeirion Tourist Village is a coastal village renowned for its charming cottages and Mediterranean-inspired architecture. It was conceived by a Welsh architect called Clough Williams-Ellis. Although it’s a small, charming place, its visitors can still find places to eat, drink and sleep. There is even a spa available.

Ramsey Island (Pembrokeshire)

If you like dramatic cliffs and landscapes dominated by heathland, this is another great stop on your Wales road trip. Ramsey Island is a nature reserve that boasts a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can explore the island’s walking trails and marvel at the Pembrokeshire coastline. There are many boat tours available, on which you can spot both birds and sea creatures in their natural habitat.

Tintern Abbey (Wye Valley)

Surrounded by wooded hills, Tintern Abbey is a hauntingly beautiful abbey that holds both historic and poetic significance. Its romantic charm inspired William Wordsworth to create the poem ‘Lines Composed a Few Miles above Tintern Abbey‘. Those who seek peaceful retreats can explore the abbey’s nave, cloisters and other remnants.

Aberystwyth (Cardigan)

Aberystwyth is a coastal town famous for its extensive cultural heritage. Make sure to take the time to explore one of its top historical spots, Aberystwyth Castle. The town has a vibrant atmosphere with various places to shop and eat. When it comes to views, the Victorian promenade offers stunning vistas of the sea.

Barry Island (Glamorgan)

Barry Island is a well-known, family-friendly seaside resort. Its beach boasts a wide stretch of golden sand, and it’s ideal for sunbathing. If you travel with family, you can also take your little ones to Barry Island Pleasure Park, it’s filled with fun and adrenaline-pumped rides for both adults and kids.

Pembrey Country Park & Beach (Carmarthenshire)

Pembrey Country Park & Beach encompasses diverse landscapes such as woodlands, meadows and one of the finest sandy beaches in the region. The park itself features a variety of fun amenities, such as toboggan, adventure playground, golf, etc. You can also hire a bike if you prefer active ways to explore the area.

National Botanic Gardens Of Wales (Carmarthenshire)

The scenic setting, diverse plant collection and commitment to conservation make this spot a delightful destination for an educational outing. The key feature of the National Botanic Gardens of Wales is the Great Glasshouse, which is the largest single-span glasshouse in the world. Spanning over 500 acres, this iconic garden houses a diverse collection of plants, creating a mesmerising environment for its visitors.

Tips For A Successful Wales Road Trip

If you want to make your Wales road trip feel like a breeze, make sure to follow these tips:

Plan your route well – If you wait until you get to Wales to choose which attractions you’ll visit, you’ll feel overwhelmed and too stressed. This will result in you missing some of the best gems in the country, so make sure to plan your stops.
Bring photography gear – Wales has too many breathtaking vistas, and it would be a tragedy not to capture some of them. That’s why we advise you to bring a good camera to capture memorable moments from your road trip.
Research local events – Check whether there will be some festival or local event during your road trip. It’s a great way to experience local culture, have fun and perhaps meet new friends along the way.
Be prepared for an emergency – We all do our best to avoid them, but sometimes unexpected accidents can still creep on us. That’s why it’s good to familiarise yourself with emergency contact numbers.
Learn basic Welsh phrases – You’ll be able to communicate with locals perfectly if you speak English. However, learning a few Welsh phrases can enhance your experience and showing respect for the local culture will help you connect with the locals even more.
Check the weather regularly – Wales is a place with unstable weather conditions, so it’s advisable to come prepared. Bring layers, rain gear and check the forecasts regularly.
Consider an appropriate vehicle – Given the diverse terrain in Wales, especially in rural and mountainous areas, choosing a vehicle that is equipped to provide stability and accessibility to the off-beaten-path location is essential. 4×4 vehicles are ideal for this purpose. You can also hire a campervan for a comfortable journey with your spouse.

Contact SDVH for top-notch 4×4 car hire deals that will allow you to embark on an adventurous road trip through the diverse landscapes of Wales.

What Time Of Year Is Best To Drive Around Wales?

The best time of year to drive around Wales is in the summer. A summer Wales road trip lets you see the country at its warmest and indulge in many fun outdoor activities. It’s also when most festivals start, including the Hay and Gower festivals and Llangollen International Eisteddfod.

However, if you’re more of an introvert and don’t mind cooler temperatures, the late spring and early autumn can be pleasant times for a Wales road trip as well. There will be fewer crowds and you’ll get to enjoy outdoor activities in peace.

Regardless of when you choose to visit, Wales will offer you a rich tapestry of landscapes and experiences.

If you want a bonding experience with your friends or family in Wales and are in search of a minibus or 9-seater car, reach out to SDVH for both affordable and convenient deals.

Where To Stay During Wales Road Trip

There’s no shortage of accommodation options for your Wales road trip. Want to stay in North Wales? Caernarfon and Conwy are great options if you’re looking to explore the northern coast.

Heading through Mid Wales? Llanwrtyd Wells is a good place to take a breather from your road trip. It’s not too far from Brecon Beacons and Hay on Wye, essential stops on your journey.

The county town of Pembrokeshire, Haverfordwest, would be the ideal choice for this part of West Wales. It’s close to the national park and connects with Fishguard and Milford Haven. Staying here will make your Pembrokeshire road trip easier to organise.

You’ll be glad to know that South Wales offers comfy accommodation as well. Cardiff, the capital, can cater to various preferences, from budget-friendly to luxury options. If you’re into the coastal vibe, you can find good seaside stays.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take To Explore Wales?

It will take you at least 7 days to explore Wales. A week could allow you to see major attractions, but for a more leisurely experience, consider spending more time on your road trip escapade. In case you’re interested in spending four weeks exploring the best gems the UK has to offer, we’ve prepared an awesome itinerary for that.

What’s The Best Time For A Wales Road Trip?

The best time for a Wales road trip is in the summer. You’ll have sunny weather and longer daylight hours on your side so you can embark on walking trails and admire coastal towns. But keep in mind that this is also the most popular time to visit Wales since it’s the time of the festivals and there will be huge crowds. For a quieter experience, consider visiting in late spring or early autumn.

Should I Visit North Or South Wales?

You should visit North Wales if you want to see stunning landscapes such as Snowdonia National Park. The North Wales area is known for its rugged mountains and historic castles. On the other hand, South Wales provides scenic coastal areas that will take your breath away. If you’re more of a sea fan, you should opt for the south, and if you prefer hiking, then the North Wales Way should be your choice.

Is Wild Camping Allowed In Wales?

Wild camping isn’t allowed in Wales, officially. It’s possible to go wild camping in an area, but only with the landowner’s permission. Most of the land in Wales is privately owned, including places like Snowdonia National Park. Would-be campers should note that most landowners are perfectly fine with camping on their land. As long as you leave no trace and avoid disrupting the land, you won’t have any trouble.

What Language Is Spoken In Wales?

English is spoken in Wales. Welsh and English are the official languages of Wales, and they make up 96.7% of the residents’ main speaking tongues. The English dialects in Wales are referred to as Welsh English or “Wenglish“. English-speaking visitors are unlikely to have trouble conversing with locals during a Wales road trip.

Conclusion

We’ve come to the end of our Wales road trip itinerary. This travel plan, combined with a good vehicle hire deal, will allow you to embark on an adventure like no other. No matter if you’re a history buff looking to see St Davids Cathedral or some other UNESCO World Heritage site, or you’re simply a sea lover who wants to take a boat trip and explore coastal gems, Wales is a precious destination loved by many and is sure to offer you an unforgettable vacation experience.