The Darbys Welsh Adventure V2

Patrick and Patrick

Saturday 24th August – Saturday 31st August 2024

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights

Day by Day

Day 1 - Saturday 24th August - Welcome to Wales

On arrival at the airport you will be met by your private transfer who will whisk you through the rolling hills of England into wonderful Wales.

Arriving at your elegant hotel in the historic market town of Abergavenny, take the time to relax ahead of your first evening. Surrounded by the enchanting Brecon Beacons, this charming town, once famous for iron-smelting, is now a foodie hotspot and boasts Castle ruins dating back to c. 1087.

Overnight: Abergavenney | Angel Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin Room
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Sunday 25th August - Hiking Offa's Dyke

Later this morning, meet your expert guide and embark on a hike along Offa’s Dyke. Venturing into lush woodlands, where bird songs accompany each step and wildflowers paint the path. Discover panoramic views atop rolling hills, pausing for lunch amidst the countryside and the ancient earthwork of Offa’s Dyke, while your guide shares insights into its rich history.

The afternoon brings challenges of rocky terrain and steep inclines, balanced by the beauty of open fields, quaint villages, and encounters with friendly locals, with your guide pointing out hidden gems along the way. As the sun sets, feel filled with gratitude for the day’s adventures as your guide transports you back to your hotel for a well deserved rest this evening.

Overnight: Abergavenney | Angel Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Monday 26th August - Hay-on-Wye Wonders

Today, meet your guide and set off on a short drive to explore Hay-on-Wye’s charming streets on a literary journey like no other, where the scent of aged paper beckons you into iconic bookshops, each brimming with rare finds and second-hand treasures. Wandering through cozy nooks and crannies, you uncover the town’s rich literary history while stumbling upon smaller, independent gems hidden down alleyways. From vintage armchairs to hand-painted signs, each bookstore offers its own unique charm, inviting you to lose yourself in the countless stories waiting to be discovered.

This afternoon, visit a taproom to sample some locally made craft beers before taking the opportunity to stop by the medieval Hay Castle, once a stronghold during the Norman invasion of Wales, before retiring to the charming town of Abergavenny for the evening.

Overnight: Abergavenney | Angel Hotel
Room Type: Deluxe Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Tuesday 27th August - Falconry and Penderyn Distillery

Celebrate Patricks 60th Birthday in style as you embark on an unforgettable wildlife and majestic birds-of-prey adventure, nestled in the breathtaking countryside of the Brecon Beacons National Park. Start your day with Harris Hawks, freestyle fly in mixed woodlands where they can cover up to 5 miles. Afterwards, meet Florence, the White Tailed Eagle, a Canadian breed being re-introduced to Wales with an 8ft wingspan. Lastly you’ll encounter an incredibly rare African vulture. Conclude your adventure with a light lunch, reminiscing on the mornings extraordinary encounters.

Later this afternoon, visit Penderyn Distillery for a private Distillery Tour to learn about how their award-winning whisky is made and what makes Penderyn Single Malt Welsh Whisky so unique. See the mill, mash tun and copper pot stills in action whilst working up a thirst, soon to be quenched by some tasters in the bar afterwards.

Your guide will take you to your next accommodation for the evening, dramatically resting high above a rocky, volcanic outcrop.

Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: St Davids Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Wednesday 28th August - Pembroke Coastal Path

Embarking on a day of hiking along the Pembroke Coastal Path promises awe-inspiring scenery, with rugged cliffs plunging into the sea and hidden coves dotting the shoreline. Traversing the undulating path, you encounter windswept heathlands, colourful wildflowers, and coastal wildlife, from soaring seabirds to basking seals. With support from your expert guide along the way, discover hidden gems off the beaten path and away from the crowds. Pausing for a picnic lunch, you soak in the endless vistas before continuing your journey, each twist and turn revealing new wonders.

As the day ends, you’re welcomed by the warm hospitality of St Davids, where you can unwind with a hearty meal or simply bask in the tranquility of the seaside, knowing you’ve experienced the beauty of the Pembroke Coastal Path in all its glory.

Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: St Davids Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Thursday 29th August - Ramsey Island

Embarking on a visit to Ramsey Island in Wales promises an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Boarding a boat from the mainland, you set sail across the sparkling waters of St. Brides Bay, feeling the salty breeze on your face as you approach the rugged coastline of Ramsey Island. As you disembark onto the island’s rocky shores, you’re immediately enveloped in a sense of tranquility, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and sweeping vistas of the sea. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you embark on a journey of exploration, trekking along winding trails that lead you through windswept grasslands and heathlands adorned with colourful wildflowers. Along the way, encounter a diverse array of wildlife, from nesting seabirds perched precariously on sheer cliff faces to playful seals basking on rocky outcrops below.

Stopping to admire the breathtaking scenery, you pause to catch your breath and soak in the sights and sounds of this remote island sanctuary. Perhaps you’ll climb to the island’s highest point for panoramic views of the surrounding seascape, or descend to one of its secluded beaches for a peaceful moment of reflection. Upon disembarking, stop off at St Davids Cathedral where you can explore the most important medieval ecclesiastical building in Wales before heading back to Roch Castle.

Overnight: St Davids | Roch Castle
Room Type: St Davids Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Friday 30th August - Journey to The Cotswolds

Beginning the journey from St. Davids to The Cotswolds, you’re greeted by the serene Welsh countryside as you embark on a scenic drive. En route, you make a captivating stop at the enchanting Brecon Beacons National Park, known for its picturesque landscapes and cascading waterfalls. Venturing onto a winding trail, hike through lush forests and meandering streams, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. As you emerge, you’re met with the breathtaking sight of a majestic waterfall, its crystalline waters tumbling gracefully into a pool below. Pausing to admire the natural beauty surrounding you, you take a moment to soak in the tranquility of this idyllic setting before continuing your journey to The Cotswolds, for your final night in England and bid your guide farewell.

Overnight: Tetbury, The Cotswolds | The Hare and Hounds
Room Type: Classic Twin Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Saturday 31st August - Depart

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to make your onward connections. Waving farewell for now but taking with you special memories and wonderful stories of your explorations.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 7 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 2 to Day 7 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Private Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Private Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private half day falconry experience
    • Private Distillery Tour at Penderyn Distillery
    • Private boat trip to Ramsey Island
    • Entry to Hay Castle
    • Entry to St Davids Cathedral
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed.
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision.
  • Activities are only private if so specified

Hiking in Wales

Routes in Wales are often not marked and navigation skills and weather knowledge are both essential to hike safely here, as well as the right equipment. The weather in the mountains can change in a few minutes and is unpredictable (forecasts mean near to nothing for us!)

August is school summer holidays for the UK and it will be busy. The benefit of having a guide with you is that they can navigate lesser known routes and take the clients off the beaten path, away from the crowds.

Expert Guiding

Start & finish times are extremely flexible and can be adjusted throughout the trip if the clients wish to change things around.  They are also very sensitive to ensure that people get the space they need and use the flexibility of the days to personalise everything to the clients needs – including down time or self exploring.

Meals: Lunches are usually with the guide but this is optional. Typically, guides will not join the clients for dinner unless the clients ask them to join.

We carefully match the right guide to the clients – so as much info and insight on the clients as you can give is appreciated – and the guides are such warm personalities who have a lot of experience at connecting with people from all walks of life.
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.