Have you ever visited a place that truly blew you out of the water? A place that you didn’t have the highest expectations about? That was Wales for me. A few weeks ago I took a coastal road trip around Wales with Visit Wales and it was so incredible. I was so surprised by the beauty of the country and the kindness of the people I met along the way.
My nine days in Wales allowed me to see most of the country and really explore, instead of just ticking it off. So, if you have a week, I definitely suggest either booking a tour or renting a car and taking a coastal road trip around Wales so you can see how amazing it is for yourself.
A Coastal Road Trip Around Wales
I spent eight days exploring Wales! I grabbed the train from London to Manchester and then met John, my tour guide from Boutique Tours. Here is a look at our itinerary for the trip! This is just a guideline, feel free to pull off the road at any point! We did that when we saw something really beautiful! Oh, and I’ve also put together a map for you of all the places I visited!
Day 1
On your way from Manchester to Conwy, stop at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for a little bit of brunch. I enjoyed the avocado toast with fresh asparagus and it was delicious! Afterward, get back in the van to continue your journey to Conwy. Along the way stop at St Asaph Cathedral before heading to Llandudno. Make sure to check out the views from Great Orme. If you have time, take a ride on the cable car or tram!
After that, make your way to Conwy. Make a quick stop at the Smallest House In Great Britain before checking into the Erskine Arms and enjoying dinner there!
Day 2
Wake up early so you can be the first inside of Conwy Castle. This UNESCO heritage castle is absolutely stunning and it’s worth a visit up to the top of one of the eight towers.
After your visit to the castle, hop in the car and head to Snowdonia National Park. You can take a scenic drive here and on a clear day, lay eyes on Mount Snowdon. Even if the weather is a bit on the wetter side, you can still have a wander around the many trails! Just make sure to wear a raincoat and proper footwear! Grab lunch at the Ugly House — order the rarebit, a traditional Welsh meal.
At the end of the day head back to the Erskine Arms in Conwy!
Day 3
It’s time to check out of the Erskine Arms and drive to the Isle of Anglesey. Make sure to stop at the town with the longest name in Europe… Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch.
Afterward, head to Holly Head to visit South Stack Lighthouse. Prepare yourself though, it will be quite windy!
When you’re finished taking in the views on Anglesey, it’s time to visit another gorgeous castle in Wales. The Caernarfon Castle is the most famous of Welsh castles as it was built as a royal palace and not only a military stronghold! It is really quite beautiful!
After your visit to the castle, grab lunch at Stryd-y-Plas, which is right down the road.
Round out your afternoon with a trip to the Ty Coch Inn. It’s one of the best beach bars in the world and you can only reach it by foot or boat. I suggest walking down the beach, but make sure you check the tides for the day!
Conclude the day by checking into Gwesty Ty Newydd in Aberdaron.
Day 4
Check out of your hotel and hop in the van. Begin your drive to Criccieth beach where you can lay your eyes on Criccieth Castle. The view from below is the best in my opinion!
When you’re done with that, it’s time for lunch at Castell Duedraeth, which is at the entrance to Portmeirion.
Portmeirion is a little bit of a tourist trap, but if you’re interested in seeing an Italian inspired village on the coast of Wales, drop by. If you want to skip it than just head to another coastal town for lunch and a wander.
After lunch, it’s time to check out Harlech Castle. This one is definitely more in ruins than some of the other ones, but it’s still worth a visit. For the best view though, drive up the road.
Today you’re going to want to head to your accommodations on the earlier side of things. You’ll be checking into Coes Faen Spa Lodge BB (my favorite of the trip). The owners and manager of the hotel are wonderful and will welcome you by offering you a glass of prosecco before showing you to your room. Each room is unique and offers several comforts like a steam room, hot tub, jacuzzi, or handcrafted bath.
Make sure to stick around for dinner. You’ll have the most delicious meal no matter what you order!
Day 5
Check out of your hotel and head to the TalyLlyn Railway! The steam train is one of the oldest in the world and the hour-long ride will show you some great views.
Grab lunch at the Penhelig Arms.
Afterward, continue onto Aberystwyth and ride the cliff train for a stunning view of the town below.
You’ll continue your coastal road trip around Wales to Aberaeron, the cutest little seaside town, filled with colorful buildings everywhere you look.
Check into Harbourmaster for the night.
Day 6
Head to the Ceredigion coast and stop at Mwnt for a photo opp. The ancient holy site features a 12th-century church on the edge of a cliff.
From there it’s time to visit Cardigan Castle and then the Pentre Ifan, a burial ground, which is one of the most famous sites in Wales. It’s really interesting and kind of in the middle of nowhere.
Next up is a visit to the Blue Lagoon! This place is beautiful. Hike to the top for the best view!
When you’re finished there, it’s time to continue onto St. David’s, the smallest city in Britain where you’ll check into Twr y Felin Hotel.
After dining at the hotel head down to Whitesands Beach for a beautiful view of the sunset.
Day 7
Choose an activity that will allow you to better explore the coast of Wales. We went with a boat tour, but you could also go coasteering if you’re feeling adventurous! You’ll spot sea lions, birds, and dolphins!
After your morning on the water, drive along the coast through Little Haven. Stop there for lunch at a cafe or the pub before making your way to the Green Bridge of Wales and Stack Rocks. You’ll get one of the best views of the coast of Wales here.
Hop back in the car and stop off in Tenby, the cutest little harbor town! Explore the area for a little bit before hopping back in the car and heading to your next accommodation, Patricks With Rooms.
Day 8
The last day of your coastal road trip around Wales will bring you to Cardiff where you can hop on a food tour and explore the city! Make sure to head down to the waterfront and then grab a boat back into the city!
If you decide to stay the night, definitely book the Hilton!
Travel Colorfully was invited on a coastal road trip around Wales by Visit Wales, but as always all opinions are my own.
Disclosure: some of the links in this post are affiliates which earns me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting #travelcolorfully!
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