North Wales - Land of Castles and Mountains

Take 6 days to experience North Wales ' unique culture, musical language and stunning landscapes. Explore market towns, medieval walled cities, domineering Fortresses, untouched coastlines and a very unique welsh village, and all against the backdrop of the breathtaking scenery of the Snowdonia National Park and the mighty Mount Snowdon.

The Tour

Day 1 Victorian Llandudno and medieval Conwy

Arriving in Manchester make your way West crossing the ancient the border into Wales . Make a stop at the manor and gardens of Bodelwyddan Castle before following the scenic northern coastline to Llandudno , North Wales' original seaside resort. Wander the length of the sandy bay along the elegant promenade and admire the Victorian architecture of the seafront townhouses and pier. Continue to Conwy where you are greeted by the turrets Conwy Castle ; wander its medieval town walls and watch towers which still surround almost the entire town and explore Conwy's quaint cobbled streets, market squares and fishing boats bobbing on the Marina.

Overnight Conwy (Groes Inn or Castle Hotel )

Day 2 Anglesey and Beaumaris Castle

Today cross the Menai Bridge, a spectacular feat of 19th century engineering, to reach the Isle of Anglesey , heart of welsh culture and the ancient welsh language. Visit the stunning Plas Newydd manor before enjoying a coastal trail exploring Anglesey's endless dunes, cliffs and bays all rich in wildlife. Spot seals out at sea or puffins on the rocks from the stunning viewpoint of the South Stack lighthouse. Inland is host to heaths and wetlands and a host of archaeological and historic sites. Complete your day with a visit to Beaumaris Castle , a technically perfect 13th century fortress complete with moat and concentric battlements. This unique spectacle nestles innocently before the stunning back drop of Anglesey's mountains and marshes. Return to the mainland and Conwy for your overnight stay.

Overnight Conwy (Groes Inn or Castle Hotel )

Day 3 Caernarfon Castle, Llynn Peninsular and Portmeirion

Continuing West on the Welsh mainland, head for bustling market town of Caernarfon . The town's menacing medieval castle holds a commanding position in the town centre and was the stunning setting for the 1969 investiture of Prince Charles by the Queen. From Caernarfon Castle journey deep in to the Llynn Peninsular , an untouched corner of enchanting countryside and seascapes, celtic landmarks, forgotten farmhouses and white-washed villages. Stop at a local inn where you are sure to be the only non-welsh speaker. Complete this magical day with by exploring Port Meirion a unique italianate design village in a secluded cliffside estuary scattered with baroque architecture. A feast for the eyes, you may also recognize Port Meirion as the location of cult sixties TV show "The Prisoner".

Overnight Snowdonia area (Maes y Neuadd or Penhelig Arms )

Day 4 Historic Harlech, the West Coast and Snowdonia

On day four take an entirely unique scenic rail journey, twisting your way between Portmadhog and Blaenau Ffestiniog on a narrow guage line through the spectacular Snowdonia parkland. Then journey South along the stunning coastline taking in Harlech Castle , the quintessential medieval fortress, the seaside resort town of Barmouth and past the beautifully serene Mawddach Estuary to the tiny fishing enclave of Aberdyfi. From here turn inland to Machynlleth , which was Owain Glyndwr's rebel capital of Wales in the middle ages, before returning north East through the mountains of the Snowdonia National Park .

Overnight Snowdonia (Maes y Neuadd or Penhelig Arms )

Day 5 Welsh Marches, Border Towns and Chester

Explore the Welsh Marches this morning heading firstly to medieval Chirk Castle which is still lived in today and boasts award winning gardens. From here through the villages and border towns including Llangollen, Ruthin and Denbigh spotting canal walks, castle ruins and steam engines along the way. Continue to St Asaph where you'll find a real hidden gem at St Asaph cathedral before crossing back over the border in to England. Time permitting, stop to see the stunning Roman-walled city of Chester before returning to the Manchester area ready for your return flight.

Overnight near Manchester Aiport (Etrop Grange)

Day 6 Return Home

Reflect on the real side of Wales and this entirely unique culture, language and people as you fly home.

Optional Extras

• Purchase the Great British Heritage Pass offering queue skip and free entry to almost all attractions on itinerary above.

• Enjoy an upgrade in the Snowdonia area to the Port Meirion Hotel or Castell Deudraeth both located in the unique town of Port Meirion.

Customize your Tour

• Add a night in a Castle at Ruthin Castle on route back to Manchester.

• Extend your stay in Manchester to make the most of this lively Northern English city.
• Flying in to London? Add nights in central England on route to North Wales.

Images

Map