From beaches to historic cities and hiking along the coast, one spa break in Wales will never be enough.
Whether you've been 100 times, live there or are visiting for the first occasion, one of the wonderful things about a spa break in Wales is there are so many different experiences to be had. Coast, country, city, mountains - Wales has it all in great and glorious abundance. The spas in Wales embrace their surroundings and regional heritage, offering warm hospitality and beautiful therapies, while beyond their walls you will find attractions and entertainment that beg you to turn your trip into a long weekend getaway. Here are just a few of our top recommended things to do on a spa break in Wales.
Wales is practically synonymous with its famous Snowdonia National Park - a feast of impressive waterfalls, ancient woodland, glacial landforms and the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway, which climbs to the summit of Wales's highest mountain. For nature lovers and fans of a good hike, time spent in Snowdonia National Park is a treat, with multiple walking routes to suit different activity levels.
Wales is brimming with history and a sense of mythological magic, which is very much enhanced by its many castles. With 427 of these impressive structures in total, it's perhaps no surprise that Wales has been referred to as 'the land of castles' - and of course, many are open to visit. Head to Conwy Castle, Caernarfon Castle or Cardiff Castle - to name a few.
The rugged coastline in Wales is another of its many aspects, with each beach offering something different to enjoy or explore. Whether you fancy hunting for Jurassic fossils, corals and echinoids at Llantwit Major, swimming at Tor Bay in Swansea, watching the world go by in Tenby, or simply enjoying the rich beauty of Carmarthen Bay - a trip to the beach is always a good idea.
There's no shortage of beauty spots for walking and hiking in Wales, and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one that's certainly worth the journey. Encompassing 240 square miles of natural wonders, it's one of three national parks in Wales, the others being the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia. It includes over 200 circular walks, whether you fancy a half-day route or a gentle stroll - either way, the views are marvellous.
Portmeirion is a unique experience if you are visiting North Wales. The Italianate style village brings Mediterranean architectural charm and perfectly manicured gardens to this coastal spot overlooking the estuary of the River Dwydrd. It was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975 and is now owned by a charitable trust, leaving it available to enjoy and explore. Spend the day soaking up the vibes, having lunch and taking in the views.
The capital city of Wales offers heritage, culture and vast amounts of entertainment, whether you're a history buff or fancy a night out. Take a trip out to historic Flat Holm island, explore St. Fagans National Museum of History, go to a concert at Principality Stadium, or enjoy the waterfront bars and restaurants. Sometimes the best plan is to have no plan.
Having mentioned Wales' other National Parks, we couldn't leave out the Brecon Beacons. This mountain range in South Wales includes the area's highest mountain, Pen y Fan, and offers everything from nature reserves and woodlands to working farms and wildflower fields. Visitors can walk, hike, stargaze, enjoy water sports, pony trekking or even go rock climbing and abseiling.
The former home of the Prince and Princess of Wales, Anglesey is a beautiful place to visit, with lots of things to do. An island off the mainland's northwest coast, it's accessed by the 19th-century Menai Suspension Bridge and the Britannia Bridge. The medieval town of Beaumaris is a particularly famous spot, known for its eponymous castle with concentric fortifications. It's also popular for its beaches, coast, wildlife and outdoor adventures.
The Llŷn Peninsula AONB is known for some of the most outstanding scenery in Wales, and that's really saying something. Known for its sea stacks, hill forts, sandy beaches and heritage sites, it extends 30 miles into the Irish Sea from North West Wales. Well known sights include Criccieth Castle, the market town of Pwllheli, the village of Abersoch, and the sheltered Llanbedrog Beach with its colourful beach huts overlooking Cardigan Bay.
With so many wonderful places to go and things to see, you will also need somewhere to stay, and some time to relax and unwind. Wales is blessed with a wide variety of spa destinations, each offering something unique and special. Here are a few favourites to inspire your travel plans.
Perhaps best known for its golf courses, Celtic Manor has something for everyone. The extensive, five-star property has multiple dining options, lots of space and an impressive spa which you could happily spend a day or more in without doing anything else.
A unique experience on the mid Wales border, Bryn Tanat is a tranquil riverside escape where you stay in self-catered lodges and eco pods. The spa is a haven of contemporary wellness, and it's a real treat for couples or small groups of friends.
A day is never enough at The Vale Resort, where the vast amount of space and immense facilities make for a spa break that feels like a full holiday experience that everyone can enjoy.
Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia takes the concept of a spa break to a whole new level. Alongside a luxurious hotel experience, there is so much to do here, all inspired by the mountain surroundings. Spend time climbing walls, indoor caving and mountain biking, or retreat to The Wave Garden Spa to unwind in style with views over the surf lagoon.
voco St Davids Hotel Cardiff is a romantic five star luxury hotel with a blissful wellness experience inspired by the sea. It's in a prime location on the city's waterfront, and offers award-winning experiences at every turn, not least in the spa.
If you like this post, here are some similar ones that you might be interested in:
Swim in a ballroom pool, stroll in immaculate grounds and sleep where kings once slept at the unequivocally beautiful Hartwell House Hotel & Spa. As if you needed any more reasons to visit than that, here's what you need to know about this unique destination.
Read full postThe many and varied aspects of Scotland have been attracting visitors for centuries. From the rugged Highlands to dramatic lochs, buzzing cities to picturesque towns and villages. From R&R to outdoor activities, here are some of our top things to do and spa hotels to stay at in Scotland.
Read full postBrimming with castles, beaches, forest parks, stately homes, a Royal Palace and golf courses, here are just a few of the many reasons to go on a spa break in County Down.
Read full post
