Culinary Tour of Wales - 5 Days
Highlights
- Discover Wales' vibrant cuisine, from biodynamic wineries to fresh seafood
- Learn about Wales’ rich and dramatic prehistoric, Roman and medieval history
- Hike through mountains in the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia
- Boat to Skomer Island to see a puffin colony
- Explore medieval castles and ruins that gave rise to legends of Camelot
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Wye Valley & Brecon Beacons | Brecon Beacons |
| Days 2-3 | Pembrokeshire | Narberth |
| Day 4 | Cambrian Coast | Snowdonia |
| Day 5 | Adventure in Snowdonia | Snowdonia |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Wye Valley & Brecon Beacons
Start your adventure in Wales with a drive to Wye Valley along the steep-sided lower River Wye, deep in the Brecon Beacons National Park. Pass through the medieval village of Tintern and stop to see the ruins of the 12th-century abbey, before continuing into the park. The wild landscapes of high grasslands, heather plateaus, and fast-flowing rivers are home to some of Wales' most famous stories, including the legend of King Arthur and his court.
Stop at the Penderyn Whisky Distillery to see the distilling process up close, then head over to the Acre Hills biodynamic winery to experience Wales' wine-making heritage. Introduced by the Romans 2000 years ago, the wine made in this region of Wales is typically light and sparkling.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the local pubs like The Hartwick or the legendary Walnut Tree.
Days 2-3: Pembrokeshire
Described as a land of mystery and enchantment in the 11th-century Mabinogion folktale collection, Pembrokeshire's jagged coast and rugged Preseli Hills give Southwest Wales a fairytale-like setting. Trek along an 8-mile track along the top of the hills dotted with prehistoric sites with expansive views of Pembrokeshire and the coast. Hike along the Stackpole Estate to see soft sandy beaches, wooded valleys, and the famous lily ponds.
Stop at Café Mor at Freshwater West to try fresh lobster rolls, then take a boat to Skomer Island to see a large Atlantic puffin colony. Continue to the holy island of Caldey, where Cistercian monks keep 6th-century Celtic traditions alive. Visit St. David's, the de facto ecclesiastical capital of Wales to see the cathedral and medieval churches. This 800-year-old pilgrimage and worship site is a must-see for any visitor.
In the afternoon stop by the Coast Restaurant in Saundersfoot to sample the famed local fish menu and enjoy views of the Carmarthen Bay.
Day 4: Cambrian Coast
Explore the winding Cambrian Coast, which runs from Cardigan Bay to the Llyn Peninsula, and take in the spectacular ocean views. Drive through the sleepy seaside towns of Aberaeron and Barmouth and stop for lunch in a cozy pub, then continue to the village of Harlech, famous for its imposing medieval castle. Stop and see the eccentric and colorful tourist town of Portmeirion, which was constructed to mimic a traditional Italian village.
Day 5: Adventure in Snowdonia
The rugged mountains of Snowdonia are the landscape of Wales' adventure capital. Hike to the top of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), the highest point in Wales and England, for panoramic views. Visitors can also ride the mountain railway to the top. Head to Coed-y-Brenin, a mountain biking hub, to explore a variety of trails—from gentle family rides to black trail rollercoasters.
The Snowdonia mountains are cut with steep ravines and narrow river valleys, which make for the perfect gorge scrambling, canyoneering, or white water rafting adventures. No matter what you prefer, there's an adventure for every visitor here.
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Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Wales? Check out these other Wales itineraries, explore different ways to spend 5 days in Wales, or learn about the best time of year to visit Wales.
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