“Croeso i Cymru” – that’s Welsh for Welcome to Wales! Discover our 7-day Wales road trip itinerary, packed with highlights like Cardiff, Snowdonia, the Gower Peninsula, and Pembrokeshire. If you love rolling countryside, friendly sheep, delicious food, breathtaking sunsets, and stunning landscapes, this road trip is for you!
Wales is often called “little New Zealand” for its dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures. In just 7 days, you can experience the best of Wales, or extend your trip to explore even more of this magical country.
Day 1: The Journey Begins
Start your adventure in London and make your first stop at Windsor Castle, one of the Royal Family’s iconic residences. Take the scenic route via the B376 to enjoy the countryside before heading west. If you have extra time, consider a detour to the Roman Spa town of Bath or the charming Cotswolds, known for its picturesque villages and nature walks.
Cross the Severn River Bridges into Wales—using the older, northern bridge is ideal for a direct route into the Welsh countryside. Be prepared for a small toll fee. As you enter Wales, you’ll notice bilingual signs in both English and Welsh, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Your first stop could be Chepstow Castle or Tintern Abbey in the Wye Valley. Continue to Monmouth or Abergavenny, nestled at the foot of the Brecon Beacons.
Day 2: The Soul of the Country
Spend a day exploring the rugged beauty of the Brecon Beacons. This 520-square-mile national park is famous for its waterfalls, hiking trails, and dramatic peaks. Try paragliding, visit the Big Pit National Coal Museum, or take a leisurely walk from Llanfoist to Govilon.
Next, head to Cardiff, the vibrant capital of Wales. Visit the Millennium Stadium, explore the revitalized Cardiff Bay, and enjoy the city’s lively nightlife, especially on Womanby Street or Quay Street. If you’re craving more, continue west to Swansea, where you can visit the National Waterfront Museum, Dylan Thomas Centre, or relax on Swansea Bay.
Day 3: Fresh Countryside Air
Escape the city and immerse yourself in Wales’ stunning outdoors. Start with the Gower Peninsula, a wild and scenic area perfect for sunrise views. Then, drive to Pembrokeshire, home to golden beaches, lush greenery, and historic castles like Manorbier, Pembroke, and Carew.
Continue to Aberystwyth, where you can rent a mountain bike and explore the Cambrian Mountains. The trails at Nant Bwlch yr Arain offer routes for all levels, from 9km to 35km.
Days 4 & 5: Snowdonia National Park
For adventure lovers, Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit. Hike, climb, or mountain bike through this breathtaking region, or take the cog train up Mount Snowdon for panoramic views. Don’t miss Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before settling in for the night in Llanberis or Caernarfon.
Day 6: The Island of Anglesey
Travel to Anglesey, an island known for its rugged coastline and historic lighthouse. After exploring, head east to Llangollen, a charming town with attractions like Horseshoe Falls, Valle Crucis Abbey, and Castell Dinas Brân. For a unique experience, take a horse-drawn canal boat ride along the Llangollen Canal.
Day 7: Pub Time
End your road trip in Llangollen, where you can enjoy traditional Welsh pubs like The Corn Mill or the Wynnstay Arms. Try the slow-cooked pork belly at The Corn Mill or a classic Welsh steak at the Wynnstay Arms. The next morning, drive south through the rolling countryside, passing Llandrindod Wells and Rhayader, before returning to London.
Wales is a land of adventure, history, and natural beauty, perfect for an unforgettable road trip!
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