Wales is a stunning country, with many of its natural attractions hidden away from the tourist trail. Plan a trip to this beautiful area, with our picks of the most scenic places to visit.
Abereiddy
This picturesque hamlet in Pembrokeshire has an award winning blue flag beach and scenic coastline. A jewel in the heart of Pembrokeshire, Abereiddy is a grey slated rural retreat. Take time to visit the aptly named blue lagoon which is a breached quarry, popular with coasteering groups.Blue lagoon in Pembrokeshire©Payam Torabi/Flickrhttp://www.visitpembrokeshire.com
Pen-Y-Fan
Being the highest peak in South Wales at 886 metres, Pen-Y-Fan’s trig point offers a stunning panoramic view of the Brecon Beacons and the rolling Welsh hilltops. Climbing this mountain will make you feel like you’re in the true heart of Wales.Pen Y Fan mountain©Ross Merritt/Flickr https://www.visitwales.com/explore/national-parks/brecon-beacons
Barafundle Bay
A small bay in Pembrokeshire, Barafundle is backed by dunes and pine trees. The pristine beach has swathes of golden sand and clear water. The walk to the beach itself is spectacular, taking you along a small stretch of the Pembrokeshire coastline where grassy plumes meet the sea cliffs. Close by are the Bosherton Lily Ponds, three flooded limestone valleys best known for their covering carpet of lilies, at their best in June.Beautiful Barafundle©ed Webster/Flickr http://www.visitpembrokeshire.com
Three Cliffs
Another one of Wales’ scenic coastal walks, Three Cliffs is situated in Wales’ well-renowned Gower Peninsular. The cliff faces are surrounded by incredible views over to Penmaen Burrows and beyond. On the beach itself, explore the sea cave that burrows underneath an outstretching cliff face, but do take care on the beach as tides often sweep inwards quickly.Three Cliffs Bay© William Pearce/WikiCommonshttp://www.visitswanseabay.co.uk
Snowdonia
The Snowdonia National Park is a playground of massive mountains and great lakes in the northernmost region of Wales. The highest mountain there is Mount Snowdon, 1,085 metres high, and full of flora and fauna. It is also famous for the role it played in Edmund Hillary’s training prior to his famous ascent of Mount Everest.Snowdonia Pixabay Image http://www.snowdonia.gov.wales/home
Fairy Glen, Conwy
A secluded gorge along the river Conwy, Fairy Glen is a combination of rapids and cascades channelled into a narrow ravine. Wooded banks and rock walls clothed with vegetation add to the charm of this dramatic scene.Fairy Glen, Conwy©James Russell/Flickr
Pont Neath Vaughan
South Wales’ valleys are home to some spectacular waterfalls, and Pont Neath Vaughan arguably houses one of Wales’ finest. A short walk up into a dense woodland and you’ll find yourself immersed in ‘waterfall land’. Come winter, you can see the immense power of nature as rain water adds to the power of these roaring torrents. http://www.visitnpt.co.uk
Lake Vyrnwy
This great expanse of water in Powys is in fact ha reservoir propped up by a stone dam that dates back to the 1880’s. The site was, until recently, home to the tallest tree in the UK, a fir that measured 209 foot high.Lake Vyrnwy, Brecon©David Harris/Flickr
Tenby and Caldey Island
A popular local spot during the summer, Tenby is a picturesque town steeped in ancient history. Surrounded by an impressive stone wall and with a couple of beaches, there is plenty to do here. From Tenby, take the ferry over to Caldey Island. The island is home to just 40 residents and a Celtic monastery first established in the 6th century.Tenby Harbour©Matthew Hartley/Flickr
Castell Coch
Translated as the red castle, this gothic building overlooks the village of Tongwynlais and the River Taff. It was rebuilt in the 19th-century – having been destroyed 500 years before this. The woods surrounding the castle, known as the Taff Gorge complex, are among the most westerly natural beech woodlands in the British Isles. They provide a spectacular backdrop come the autumn months.Castell Coch©Tom Sens/Flickr
