Wander through Wales (virtually) on this photo tour

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Welcome to Wales

Wales, a country in southwest Great Britain, packs immense beauty in a relatively small package. This country of just over three million people features endless miles of pristine coastline, rugged national parks and a seemingly unending collection of medieval castles. This, paired with its Celtic culture and Welsh hospitality, make Wales a truly captivating destination. 

Explore it on this virtual tour.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Cardiff

Cardiff ranks among Europe’s youngest capital cities. While Cardiff only became the capital in 1955, Cardiff Castle dates back much farther with a history spanning some 2,000 years.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Castell Conwy

Wales is home to literally hundreds of castles and ruined castle sites, more than just about anywhere else in the world. Conway Castle, built between 1283 and 1287, ranks among the most visually pleasing. It was also among the most expensive strongholds of Edward I. These days, it offers commanding views of the River Conwy and the peaks of Snowdonia.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Wales Coast Path

In 2012, the last of Wales’ coastal paths were linked, creating the continuous 870-mile Wales Coast Path. Wales became the first country in the world to have a trail along its entire coast. Whether you walk for days, weeks, or even months, you’re sure to see colorful seaside towns, pristine beaches, castle remnants and sea cliffs.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Southerndown

Many scenes of the popular TV show "Doctor Who" have been filmed on the beaches and rocks of Southerndown in the Vale of Glamorgan. The Blue Flag beach seen here, a favorite among locals, is officially called Dunraven Bay.

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Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Cadair Idris

Cader Idris (the Seat of Idris in Welsh) peaks at 2,930 feet. Some say the imposing mountain in Snowdonia is named after a giant, others a 7th century Welsh prince. Either way, it remains a popular spot for hikers and rock climbers.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Portmeirion Village

Portmeirion Village ranks among the most colorful and quirky destinations in Wales. Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis designed the village in the 1920s – it’s said to be inspired by Portofino in Italy.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Devil's Bridge

Devil’s Bridge gets its name from the three bridges spanning the Mynach River, each stacked atop the next. But the other draw is the series of spectacular waterfalls dropping some 295 feet.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Tintern Abbey

The Cistercian abbey of Tintern was founded in 1131 and was abandoned in 1536 when Henry VIII expelled the monks. Today, the riverside monastic ruins attract travelers, photographers and artists alike.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal

The scenic Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal meanders through the Welsh countryside for 35 miles, passing through six locks along its course. Once used to transport coal, limestone and iron to Newport on the coast, these days, the canal is more popular for narrowboat cruises or leisurely bike rides along the towpath.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Caerphilly Castle

Marcher lord Gilbert de Clare began constructing the biggest castle in Wales in 1268, inspired by his fear of the powerful Welsh prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. In all of Britain, it’s second only to Windsor in terms of sheer size.

Photo courtesy of iStock / WhitcombeRD

Pen-y-Fan

Pen-y-Fan, the tallest peak in South Wales at 2,907 feet, is also one of the most popular hikes in Brecon Beacons National Park. Those who make the climb are rewarded with spectacular views across the Welsh countryside.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Traeth Llyfn beach

The Welsh coast is dotted with beaches, ranging from bustling stretches of sand to remote, windswept shores. You’ll often find Traeth Llyfn, backed by towering cliffs, nearly deserted.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

St Lythans Burial Chamber

In the middle of a field outside Cardiff stands a Neolithic tomb dating back some 4,000 years. Three upright stones support a massive capstone – all that’s left of what was once a larger burial monument. According to one legend, the site was once a druid altar, and on Midsummer’s Eve, the capstone would spin three times.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Strumble Head Lighthouse

Strumble Head Lighthouse emits its beam of light to ferries passing by en route to Ireland. While the lighthouse is automated these days, it remains a favorite spot with photographers and wildlife watchers who come to see dolphins, sharks and seals from the rocky perch.

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Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Penarth Pier

The town of Penarth is home to an iconic 1929 art deco pavilion built atop a pier. The rocky shoreline is the closest beach to Cardiff, and the pier attracts weekend visitors who come to enjoy local food, live music and a dose of nostalgia.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Village of Cynghordy

The small village of Cynghordy in Llanfair-ar-y-Bryn is perhaps best known for its viaduct, built in 1867. The railway bridge features 18 arches and stands 108 feet tall.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Millennium Coastal Path

This 13-miles stretch of the Wales Coastal Path offers a mostly flat and well-surfaced trail popular for walking or cycling. The route passes the Loughor Estuary, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere

The Dyfi Biosphere in Mid Wales is considered one of the best-preserved natural landscapes in Europe. The UNESCO-designated biosphere protects wide beaches and sand dunes, salt marshes, lowland peat bogs and broadleaved woodlands.

Photo courtesy of © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2019) Cymru Wales

Carreg Cennen Castle

The ruins of Carreg Cennen Castle are often ranked as the most romantic in Wales. Sitting atop a limestone crag above the River Cennen, the castle is visible for miles in every direction. The castle ruins date back to the late 13th century during Edward I’s conquest.