Wales, an often overlooked and remarkable part of the broader United Kingdom alongside England and Scotland, doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves.
Its rich history has sculpted a landscape adorned with Iron Age hill forts, remnants of Roman influence, and medieval castles that almost rival the breathtaking scenery.
If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Wales, you can begin with the ‘Seven Wonders of Wales,’ outlined below, offering a glimpse into the country’s wonders and rich heritage.
Did you know? Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe!
1. Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall is one of the wonders that you can’t skip when you visit Wales. You will have the opportunity to see the falls cascade over 240 feet over a cliff and falling into 3 distinct and unique stages.
It’s found near Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant into the very rural drive into the Welsh Marches where you can trek through this Llanrhaedr-ym-Mochnant single track. There are available hotels and car parks for everyone.
Tip: For visitors, there is a small car park at the foot of the waterfall as well as a small café and it is a great place to explore the Berwyn Mountains.
If you marked an interest in hiking when building your personal travel guide, your Guidester would alert you that there is a great 3-mile circuit that crosses the foot of the fall and returns to the car park via old quarry heaps and rolling hillsides.
A much more adventurous alternative climbs steeply on the right of the waterfall and continues uphill, as far as you want to go along the great cliffs of the Berwyn ridge.
2. Snowdon
If you’re into having mountain adventures – Snowdon – the highest peak in Snowdonia National Park should be at the top of your list of things to do in Wales.
There are several ways to ascend the mountain that vary in difficulty. Llanberis Path is the easiest and also the longest. It’s a winding pony track to the top with views of the clear lakes. You will be continually encouraged by the ever-improving mountain views the higher up you get.
Tip: A more challenging and much more scenic route is The Watkin Path – less popular than Llanberis – along which you will pass through ancient woodlands, wind past a waterfall, and be in the prime spot to enjoy the awe-inspiring views from Bwlch Ciliau.
The Guidester Difference: We know so much hiking isn’t for a lot of travelers, so we would recommend taking the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit – a unique rail journey where you will get to see the stunning scenery in a more relaxed way.
3. Gresford Bells
Another brilliant wonder you can’t skip is the All Saints’ Church and the amazing Gresford Bells at the top of a stone staircase in the tower of this beautiful church.
But you don’t go there just to see them – the point (and what they’re famous for) is to hear them and their strong ring and perfect tone they make. They’re famous for first being rung hundreds of years ago during curfew, later after a coal mining tragedy, and then during the world war II.
Today, the bells are rung at church services on Tuesdays and Sundays.
What are the best castles in Wales? Where are they located and when are they open? Your personal travel guide by Guidester will show you the best places to visit, plus all the information you need (opening times, prices, local tips, and more!)
4. Llangollen Bridge
This is a medieval bridge constructed in the 16th century located in the town of Llangollen. This is the first stone bridge to cross the Dee river. It is recognized as one of the seven wonders due to it’s supporting arches found under the bridge.
But this picture-perfect setting isn’t the only thing to see here. Follow the Dee up along the bank where charming houses hug the river. This quaint and certainly unique town almost feels like you’re in Italy – instead of Northern Wales – if the sun is out!
Related Article: 7 Best Places To Visit In Wales
5. St. Winefride’s Well
If you’re a history-lover, this should be on your list of things to do in Wales. Found in the town of Holywell, this is one amazing well with a strange story behind it.
Sitting at the site of Saint Winefride, the story goes that St Winefride ran from her seducer. He caught up with her and cut her head off – and a spring came up where her head fell.
It is believed the well’s water caused miracles and people have been journeying here for more than 1,300 years. This makes it be the oldest pilgrimage visited every year in Great Britain.
Planning a Trip to Wales?
We can help create your perfect itinerary!
- Worried you'll miss the hidden gems?
- How long should you stay in each place?
- Should you rent a car, train it, or both?
6. Overton Yew Trees
This is a marvelous place to visit where you will come across the Overton Yew Trees situated at the St. Mary the Virgin Church in the town Overton-on-Dee.
Many of these trees predate the church – built during the Norman-era- and have been here for thousands of years! Queen Elizabeth too planted a Yew Tree in 1992 during one of the local celebrations.
7. St Giles’ Church’s Tower
Don’t skip St Giles’ Church during your visit to Wales. Located in Wrexham, it is the largest medieval church in Wales.
Its 15th century tower is the tallest structure and is – along with its unique architecture – what puts in on the list of the seven wonders rather than the entire church itself.
Tip: Make sure to climb the tower to enjoy truly incredible views!
As you complete your tour in Wales, you would also like to participate in the most famous and popular activity known as the national three peaks challenge. This makes the climax adventure of almost all the tourist who visits the region.
It involves climbing the three highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales. It’s so exciting and adventurous that most of the tourist always want to complete the excursion in 24 hours.
You can also do it as most of the people who have tried have made it in 24 hours. The National three peaks challenge is so popular and makes you enjoy one of the most pleasant moments and experiences that you will remember. It is a worth accepting challenge
Download 10 Crucial Things To Do Before Traveling Abroad to help plan your next adventure; packing tips, getting foreign currency, finding the right adapters, phone plans, and more!
