A Welsh Adventure: Hikes, Heritage, and Hidden Gems

Sandy & Bill

Spring 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 11 Days / 10 Nights

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 11-day adventure through Wales, starting in the stunning Brecon Beacons, where you’ll enjoy scenic hikes and charming towns like Hay-on-Wye. Traverse the breathtaking Carmarthen Fans, steeped in folklore, and explore the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline, including a boat trip to Ramsey Island. Visit the iconic Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, steeped in legend and history. Experience the majesty of Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales, and immerse yourself in Welsh heritage with visits to tranquil forests and captivating landscapes. Each day promises a blend of culture, adventure, and breathtaking outdoor experiences

Highlights

  • Experience the breathtaking views of Pen-Y-Fan and Corn Du while hiking through the stunning landscapes of the Brecon Beacons.
  • Explore the literary charm of Hay-on-Wye, with its quaint bookshops, and hike up Hay Bluff for panoramic vistas.
  • Enjoy a thrilling boat trip around Ramsey Island, spotting diverse wildlife, including seals and various seabirds, along the cliffs.
  • Visit Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, steeped in history and legends, before conquering the majestic peak of Snowdon.

Day by Day

Day 1 - Welcome to Wales

This morning, meet your Wilderness guide at Cardiff Railway Station for a scenic transfer north to the Brecon Beacons. Upon arrival in Brecon, relax with a pot of tea and a slice of cake as you chat about the adventure ahead. After exploring this charming town, known for its jazz festivals and artisan chocolates, choose from two lovely walks. Opt for a leisurely stroll along the historic canal, rich with over 200 years of industrial heritage, or stretch your legs on the Brecon Cathedral Pilgrimage circular walk, offering stunning views beside the River Usk and into the majestic Black Mountains.

Overnight: Llanfaes | The Coach House Brecon
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Pen-Y-Fan & Corn Du Circular

This morning lace up your boots and experience the thrill of conquering Pen-Y-Fan, South Wales’ highest peak, alongside the neighbouring Corn Du and Cribyn. This iconic circular hike takes you through some of the most stunning terrain in the Brecon Beacons National Park. As you ascend, take in panoramic views of rolling hills, glacial valleys, and vast moorlands. With wide-open skies and breathtaking scenery at every turn. Return to Brecon this evening and indulge in local food as you relax after your day adventuring.

Overnight: Llanfaes | The Coach House Brecon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 10 km / 6 miles | 755 m / 2,476 ft elevation gain | Approx: 5 hrs

Day 3 - Hay-on-Wye & Hay Bluff

Begin your day in Hay-on-Wye, a quaint town world-famous for its bookshops, literary festivals, and unique cultural atmosphere. Wander through its narrow streets lined with independent bookstores, antique shops, and charming cafés. Visit Hay Castle, a historic landmark that’s now a hub for arts and heritage.

In the afternoon, set off on a hike up Hay Bluff, a prominent peak offering sweeping views across the Wye Valley and the stunning Black Mountains. As you ascend, admire the rugged beauty of the landscape, with rolling hills and patchwork fields stretching into the distance. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of both England and Wales, capturing the true essence of this scenic borderland

Overnight: Llanfaes | The Coach House Brecon
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 10 km / 6 miles | 482 m / 1,580 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs 30 mins

Day 4 - Carmarthen Fans & Transfer to Pembrokeshire

Start your day with a refreshing morning walk through the breathtaking Carmarthen Fans in the Black Mountain Range, where you’ll enjoy glorious views through this hiker’s paradise. With many trails to choose from, you can explore ridges or lakesides steeped in folklore, including the legend of the giant Gwrhyd, said to have roamed these hills, leaving his mark on the landscape. After your hike, continue down the road to Aberglasney Gardens for a peaceful afternoon among its beautifully restored grounds. When you’re ready, head towards St Davids, ending your day with a scenic drive in anticipation of Pembrokeshire’s stunning coastal beauty and wildlife.

Overnight: St Davids | Twr Y Felin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - A Boat Trip to Ramsey Island

After breakfast, head out for a fantastic boat trip that circumnavigates Ramsey Island. Sail over the white-capped water to the RSPB Reserve – home to ravens, peregrines and buzzards, guillemots, razorbills and fulmars. Observe the noisy, impressive spectacle from the boat as you learn about the island’s birdlife. A great place to also spot seals, listen out for the huff of these lovable creatures as you sail by the huge western cliffs. Upon landing, enjoy a walk with your guide. The southern headlands are a unique combination of heather, gorse and coastal plants, where you can also spot pipits and skylarks. Back on the mainland, return to your hotel with time to freshen up and enjoy dinner.

Overnight: St Davids | Twr Y Felin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 6 - Hiking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Wake to the smell of fresh sea air and, after breakfast, head from the doors of your chic hotel to hike a stunning part of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. On the way, stop to explore the ruins of St Non’s Chapel and the pretty working harbour of Porthclais. Traverse the spectacular coastline and look out for porpoise feeding in Ramsay Sound. Finish your walk at Whitesands Bay, an incredible expanse of soft white sand and one of the best surfing beaches in the country. Enjoy taking a break here, relaxing in the sunshine after a thoroughly lovely walk. Later, enjoy a visit to St Davids Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace before returning to your hotel to enjoy a free evening.

Overnight: St Davids | Twr Y Felin Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 5 km / 3 miles | 150 m / 492 ft elevation gain | Approx: 2 hrs

Day 7 - Journey to Harlech Castle

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning before heading north into Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park  Afterward, take a slightly longer transfer to visit the historic Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval fortress, perched on a rocky outcrop, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Harlech Castle is steeped in legend, including the famous tale of the siege of Harlech, where the castle withstood a seven-year siege during the Wars of the Roses. According to Welsh mythology, the castle is also associated with the Mabinogion, a collection of medieval Welsh stories, where it is said to be the court of Branwen, a princess of Wales. Later, you will transfer to your country house hotel nestled in the foothills of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).

Overnight: Llanddeiniolen | Tyn Rhos Country House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Hiking Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)

Start your day early at Pen-y-Pass, taking the PYG Track, a popular and scenic route to the summit of Snowdon. This track offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. Upon reaching the summit, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the highest peak in Wales. After a rest, begin your descent via the south ridge, connecting to the Watkin Path. This route is less crowded and offers diverse landscapes, including waterfalls and woodland. If the weather turns or you prefer a more relaxed descent, take the Snowdon Mountain Railway back down to Llanberis.

Overnight: Llanddeiniolen | Tyn Rhos Country House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 12 km / 7 miles | 761 m / 2,496 ft elevation gain | Approx: 7 hrs

Day 9 - Gwydyr Forest & Llyn Parc

Start your day by exploring the tranquil beauty of Gwydyr Forest, wandering through peaceful woodlands and discovering shimmering lakes like Llyn Parc and Llyn Sarnau. Take in the panoramic views over the Conwy Valley as you immerse yourself in the serene, quieter side of Snowdonia. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Bodnant Gardens, where you can wander through delicate spring flowers and perfectly manicured grounds, soaking in the tranquillity and charm of this renowned garden.

Overnight: Llanddeiniolen | Tyn Rhos Country House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 10 - Welsh Heritage & Hiking Cwm Idwal

Diving into the heart of Welsh industrial history today, transfer to the village of Llanberis for a fascinating tour of the National Slate Museum. Enjoy engaging talks and live demonstrations as you get a glimpse into the importance of slate mining in the history and politics of Wales. This afternoon, join your guide on a hike to Cwm Idwal – a beautiful glaciated hanging valley where arctic flora thrives among huge rock slabs. Chat with your guide about the rare and fragile plant life as you explore the ice-sculpted hollow filled with the clear, crystal waters of Llyn Idwal take your time and stay along as the light allows. This evening, perhaps enjoy an aperitif on the terrace before making your way inside for a final, decadent dinner.

Overnight: Llanddeiniolen | Tyn Rhos Country House
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 5 km / 3 miles | 120 m / 394 ft elevation gain | Approx: 2 hrs

Day 11 - Conwy Castle and depart

As a blackbird fills the air with its bright, carefree song, join your guide for a circular walk to some waterfalls. On your return, enjoy lunch at the Distillery Cafe before heading off to visit Conwy Castle – an impressive medieval fortress which still towers over Conwy town after 700 years. Wind your way up the restored spiral staircases for views of Eryri’s craggy mountains and the cobbled streets below. Offering the most complete set of residential rooms inhabited by the medieval monarchy anywhere in Wales, visiting the castle is a fascinating experience. This afternoon, your guide will drop you at Warrington Bank Quay Railway Station, where you can catch a train onward to Edinburgh in anticipation for your Wild Isles adventure!

Overnight: Yr Wyddfa
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Walk Details: 6 km / 4 miles | 330 m / 1,083 ft elevation gain | Approx: 3 hrs

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • All accommodation from Day 1 to Day 11
  • Meals as indicated above
  • Services of an experienced and knowledgeable qualified guide from Day 1 to Day 11
  • Ground transportation from Day 1 to Day 11
  • All guided hikes and activities mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • Snacks throughout the trip
  • 24 hour 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 25% 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
Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is £6,995 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Pay a 25% deposit

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch


Accommodation

The Coach House Brecon

12 Orchard St, | Llanfaes | Brecon |
LD3 8AN | Wales
Phone: 01874 620043
Web: coachhousebrecon.com

Twr Y Felin Hotel

Ffordd Caerfai | St Davids | Pembrokeshire |
SA62 6QT | Wales
Phone: +44 (0) 1437 725 555
Web: twryfelinhotel.com

Tyn Rhos Country House

Seion | Llanddeiniolen |
LL55 3AE | Wales
Phone: +44 (0) 1248 670 489
Web: tynrhos.co.uk