North Wales: Castles, Coastlines, and Charming Villages

North Wales is a stunning region filled with history, dramatic landscapes, and coastal beauty. Our trip through this captivating part of the UK was filled with adventures—from exploring medieval castles to hiking along rugged coastlines.

CONWY – We began our adventure in the charming town of Conwy, famous for its UNESCO-listed Conwy Castle. The castle, built by Edward I in the 13th century, towers over the town, offering incredible views of the surrounding area. We spent the morning wandering through its impressive walls, imagining what life must have been like in medieval times. After exploring the castle, we strolled through Conwy’s narrow, cobbled streets lined with old stone houses.

We walked along the medieval town walls, which are some of the best-preserved in Europe. The views over the River Conwy and the mountains in the distance were breathtaking. We also visited the smallest house in Britain, a quirky little attraction right on the harbor. For lunch, we stopped at a cozy café, where we enjoyed fresh seafood straight from the local waters.

SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK – Our second day took us into the heart of Snowdonia National Park, home to some of the most dramatic landscapes in Wales. Once we reached the summit, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and even glimpses of the Irish Sea. We paused at the top to soak it all in before starting our descent, which felt much easier with the incredible scenery around us.

For those less inclined to hike (like us), there’s a scenic Snowdon Mountain Railway that takes you to the top, offering spectacular views along the way. This is what we did. It was awesome.

LLANDUDNO – On day three, we made our way to the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno. Known as the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts,” Llandudno has a nostalgic charm with its promenade lined by pastel-colored hotels and its historic Great Orme Tramway. On a clear day, you can even see as far as the Isle of Man. At the summit, we took a walk along the nature trails and even spotted some wild goats roaming the cliffs. The views were fantastic.

Later that day, we bimbled along the Llandudno Pier, where we indulged in some classic seaside fun—arcade games, ice cream, and people-watching. We walked along the promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and watching families enjoy the beach. It was so beautiful.

CAERNARFON – The next day we spent in the historic town of Caernarfon, famous for its mighty Caernarfon Castle. Like Conwy, Caernarfon Castle was built by Edward I and remains one of the most impressive fortresses in Wales. We toured the castle’s towers and walls, learning about its royal history and significance as the site of the Prince of Wales’ investiture.

After exploring the castle, we wandered around the harbor, taking in the scenic views across the Menai Strait. The town has a lively feel, with its mix of history and local life, and we spent the afternoon browsing small shops and sampling local food at a harborfront café.

PORTMEIRION – Day five, saw us visiting Portmeirion, which was like stepping into a Mediterranean-inspired dream, right in the heart of the Welsh countryside. This quirky, colorful village, designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, offers a unique blend of architecture, art, and nature. Surrounded by lush woodlands and overlooking a stunning estuary, it’s perfect for leisurely strolls, exploring hidden pathways, and admiring vibrant buildings that look like they belong on the Italian coast. Whether you’re a fan of The Prisoner or just love whimsical places, Portmeirion is a magical, unforgettable experience. I could quite happily live here, what a truly magical place. You need to spend a full day to truly appreciate it.

BETWS-Y-COED – Next on the list was the stunning Betws-y-Coed. This was like stepping into a picturesque postcard of natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, this charming village is surrounded by lush forests, flowing rivers, and stunning mountain scenery. Whether you’re hiking through scenic trails, visiting the enchanting Swallow Falls, or exploring quaint shops and cafes, Betws-y-Coed offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the serene, rugged beauty of North Wales.

To end our adventure, we visited the village with the famously long name: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. We couldn’t resist stopping for a quick photo with the station sign, and we even picked up a few souvenirs with the village’s name proudly displayed.

Our week in North Wales was filled with diverse landscapes, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. Whether it was exploring ancient castles, hiking through Snowdonia, or enjoying seaside towns, North Wales offered an unforgettable mix of adventure and charm. We left with memories of windswept coastlines, towering castles, and hearty Welsh meals, eager to return to this beautiful part of the world.



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