Legends of Wales - 6 Days
Highlights
- Discover Wales’ rich and dramatic prehistoric, Roman and medieval history
- See the rolling mountains of the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia
- Explore medieval castles and ruins that gave rise to legends of Camelot
- Relax at night in comfortable hotels located in scenic countryside settings
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Usk Valley, King Arthur's Court | Wye Valley |
| Day 2 | Wye Valley | Brecon Beacons |
| Days 3-4 | Explore Pembrokeshire | Narberth |
| Day 5 | Cambrian Coast Route & Snowdonia | Snowdonia |
| Day 6 | Caernarfon Castle |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Usk Valley, King Arthur's Court
Begin your journey through Welsh history in Caerleon, which is located at the lower end of the stunning Usk Valley. Visit the ancient Roman Military Fortress of Isca, established 74 CE, and explore the place referred to in ancient texts as the legendary court of King Arthur.
In the afternoon meander north along the River Usk to the rolling Black Mountains, and see where the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain dominates the skyline over the Wye Valley below.
Day 2: Wye Valley
Head deep into Brecon Beacons National Park and explore the sweeping landscapes of high mountain grasslands and heather plateaus. Spend the morning hiking around to find peaks and the impressive northern rim, marked with glacier-worn hollows, glacial lakes, and spectacular waterfalls.
Explore remains of prehistoric stone circles and burial chambers, Iron Age hillforts, and Roman encampments. In the afternoon hike to Llyn y Fan Fach, a remote lake deep in the Black Mountain range to see if the local legends of the Lady of the Lake are true.
Days 3-4: Explore 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.
Climb Carnengli Mountain, known as "the rocky summit of the angels". Take a boat to the holy island of Caldey, where Cistercian monks keep 6th-century Celtic traditions alive. Make a wish at St. Govan's Head and learn about the larger-than-life figure whose 13th-century chapel is tucked into the hills.
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. Learn the history of Dewi Sant, the patron saint of Wales and son of King Arthur's niece, who is buried here.
Day 5: Cambrian Coast Route & Snowdonia
Explore the winding Cambrian Coast and take in the spectacular ocean views. Drive through the sleepy seaside towns of Aberaeron and Barmouth, then continue north to mythical Snowdonia where legends of giants, monsters, and magic reign. Stop to see Llyn Llydaw, the lake where King Arthur's sword Excalibur was allegedly thrown.
Day 6: Caernarfon Castle
Visit the imposing medieval Caernarfon Castle, the official residence of the Edward 1st. Controversial for its role in underlining the defeat of Wales by the English in the 13th century, this castle is steeped in history and legend. The castle was also home for some time to the medieval ruler Owain Glyndŵr, who instigated a fierce and long-running revolt against the English invaders. In more recent history, Charles Philip Arthur George was crowned Prince of Wales here in 1969.
In the afternoon explore the lovely seaside village of Harlech and grab a bite to eat and a beer to eat in a cozy pub before heading home.
Map
