United Kingdom
Luxury Wales Travel: Tiny Country, Mighty Wonders
Wonders of Wales is Ker & Downey’s classic luxury Wales travel itinerary. Traveling from the northern reaches of Snowdonia National Park to the southern shores of Cardiff, no stone has been left unturned in this tiny yet mighty country. We have no doubt you will come away surprised by Wales’ many natural and cultural wonders on display during this nine-day journey.
Itinerary at-a-glance:
- Day 1 - 2: Anglesey
- Day 3 - 4: Snowdonia National Park
- Day 5 - 6: Wye Valley
- Day 7: Hensol Park
- Day 8 - 10: Cardiff
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Travelers will find their first taste of luxury Wales travel on the northern isle of Anglesey. There’s enough on the isle of Anglesey to keep you busy for weeks. Therefore, your two days here promise to be full. Taste the legendary sea salt. Explore the UNESCO protected castles of Caernarfon and Conwy. Eat your way through the Bodnant Welsh Food Center. Meander along the Anglesey Coastal Path, a favorite among geologists, archaeologists, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. (Both Oliver Cromwell and Charles Dickens were frequent visitors, after all.) Adventurous types may alternatively opt for a high-speed RIB boat ride or sailing excursion along the Menai Strait. All the while, relax in your beautiful waterside accommodations in an elegant gothic chateau overlooking the Menai Street.
Sweeping Snowdonia National Park is next on your luxury Wales travel itinerary. Settle into your Relais & Chateaux country house estate nestled on the outskirts of the mountain range for two nights of plenteous activities.
Perhaps the most impressive outing is your scenic train journey to the top of Snowdonia, the highest mountain in England and Wales. Nearby is also the charming market town of Llangollen situated on the beautiful River Dee. While here, explore such gems as Plas Newydd and Valle Crucis. These hauntingly beautiful ruins are often shrouded in the mists of the Welsh hills.
Continue your luxury Wales travels south, stopping for a breath of fresh air in the stunning Elan Valley. You will eventually arrive at a 17-acre Edwardian estate located along the picturesque Wye River on the edge of Brecon Beacons National Park.
Activities abound here, including walks in the Wye Valley, country pursuits such as archery, fishing, and falconry , and stargazing in Brecon Beacons National Park – only the fifth destination in the world to be granted International Dark Sky Reserve status. Also stop in Hay-on-Wye, the idyllic “town of books” and discover the secrets of Penderyn Single Malt Whisky during a special master class.
Next, visit Hensol Castle, a 17th-century, Grade I-listed castle in South Wales. Stop in the craft spirit distillery housed in the basement and even take part in the gin school and visitor experience. You’ll get the chance to learn about the history of gin and Hensol Castle, as well as make a bespoke bottle of gin to take home.
Find your final wonders of Wales near the capital city of Cardiff in South Wales.
In Cardiff, set out on a culinary tour around the Welsh capital and dine at the Michelin-starred James Sommerin restaurant. It all culminates with a private tour of Cardiff Castle, one of Wales’ most opulent attractions. Its fairy-tale towers conceal 2,000 years of history and romantic themes.
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Ready to explore the beautiful landscapes and culture of Wales on this suggested itinerary? Contact a Ker & Downey designer to customize your own luxury Wales travel itinerary. Choose additional countries and destinations, change property selections, add activities, tours, and more. With Ker & Downey, the choice is yours. In the meantime, read more about the seasonality and pricing in the United Kingdom. For even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.