Wonderful Wales Tour
From Cardiff’s lively streets to wild national parks, dramatic coastlines and the mountain railways of Snowdonia — a self-drive journey through Wales at its most memorable.
- Discover three remarkable national parks in one beautifully paced trip
- Ride into Snowdonia’s mountain scenery on a classic steam railway
- Begin with Cardiff’s culture, history and easy-going city energy
- Follow the Pembrokeshire Coast, with beaches, seabirds and sea views
- Explore Caernarfon, Conwy and the island landscapes of Anglesey
- Finish in Chester after a week of Welsh coast, castles and countryside
Your Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Cardiff
Begin with a train to Cardiff, where you’ll collect your rental car and settle into the rhythm of Wales. Spend time exploring the capital’s historic arcades, waterside quarters, green spaces and proud sporting culture before continuing towards the mountains.
Cardiff makes an easy, characterful start to the trip: cosmopolitan, compact and full of Welsh stories, from castle walls to contemporary food halls. Later, head for the Brecon Beacons for the first night of your countryside stay.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Spend the day in Brecon Beacons National Park, a sweeping landscape of open hills, reservoirs, caves and forested valleys. The park is made for fresh-air exploring, whether you prefer gentle viewpoints, rewarding walks or scenic drives between small towns.
Pause at local markets, seek out Welsh produce, or make the day more active with hiking and biking routes across the beacons. Return to your base for a second night surrounded by mountain air.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
The next two days are devoted to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, where beaches, cliffs, harbour towns and wildlife-rich waters define the pace. Look out for seabirds, dolphins and wide Atlantic views as you follow this celebrated coastline.
Explore Pembroke and its Norman castle, then spend time in colourful Tenby. Wander South Beach, gaze across to Caldey Island, or join a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for one of Wales’ great walking experiences.
Travelling the Coast Line to North Wales
Today brings a scenic drive along the Cardigan Bay coast, a beautiful stretch known for sandy beaches, sheltered coves and chances to spot dolphins, porpoises and seals. Inland, small villages and market towns sit among rolling green hills.
Take your time with viewpoints and nature reserves before continuing north. Your day ends in the historic town of Conwy, your base for the final three nights of the tour.
Exploring Snowdonia National Park
Immerse yourself in Snowdonia National Park, where lakes, peaks and rugged coastline create one of Britain’s most dramatic landscapes. Spend the day around castles, mountain villages and classic viewpoints, or simply let the scenery set the agenda.
For a standout experience, ascend Snowdon on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, then consider another heritage journey on the Ffestiniog and Highland Railway through valleys and slate-country scenery.
Caernarfon & Anglesey
Explore Caernarfon, a historic town on Wales’ northwest coast, and visit its mighty castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a royal and military past. The old streets and waterfront make this a rewarding place to linger.
Cross the Menai Strait to the Isle of Anglesey for island landscapes, suspension bridges and a playful photo stop at the famously long-named Llanfairpwll railway station.
Chester & Return
Your journey concludes in the beautiful city of Chester. Return your rental car, then take time to explore its Roman walls, timbered streets and landmark Eastgate Clock before the final leg of your trip.
When you’re ready, board the train back to London with a week of Welsh landscapes, castles, coastlines and mountain railways fresh in your mind.
The Route
Why travel with us
Trips you might also love
10 days
A fast-moving journey through classic English cities, countryside and North Wales, pairing historic landmarks with dramatic national park scenery.
8 days
Explore Belfast, County Down, Armagh, Derry and the Causeway Coast on a week of ancient history, warm hospitality and wild coastal drama.
9 days
Pair Edinburgh’s historic atmosphere with Highland landscapes, island scenery and lochs on a scenic self-drive through Scotland’s north.
Ready to experience the magic of Wales?
Every trip is tailor-made to your interests, dates and pace. Tell us what you’re dreaming of, we’ll handle everything else.
Get a Free Quote →