Wales is more than just a destination – itās a feeling, a story, and an experience. Whether itās the golden beaches, dramatic mountains, or the soulful sound of a male voice choir echoing through a valley, Wales has a way of capturing hearts.
While the country may be small, itās packed with big adventures, rich culture, and breathtaking beauty. Ranked by Lonely Planet as one of the worldās top travel destinations, itās clear the secretās getting out.
So, is a trip to Wales worth it? Yes! Here are 10 reasons why Wales should be on your travel bucket list – at a glance:
- Countryside
- Adventure
- Coastlines
- Cardiff
- Culture
- Heritage
- Food
- Wildlife
- Festivals
- “Hiraeth”
Read on for more inspiration!
Beautiful countryside
Wales is the very definition of green and pleasant land. From the rolling hills of the Brecon Beacons to the craggy peaks of Snowdonia, the scenery here is some of the most dramatic in the UK. Lace up your walking boots and take to the trailsāthere are thousands of miles of walking routes, including the Offaās Dyke Path and the Cambrian Way.
Along the way, youāll stumble upon ancient castles, Iron Age hill forts, hidden waterfalls, and stone circles shrouded in mist. And when your legs need a rest, thereās always a warm pub with a roaring fire waiting nearby.
But donāt worry, youāll never be lonely. The landscape is dotted with small towns and villages, each with its cosy pubs and restaurants. As they say, thereās always a welcome in the hillsides.
Iāve lived and worked in some of the most exotic places in the world, and thereās still nothing which can beat breathing in the crisp air and looking over the dark, mighty mountains of Snowdonia.
Endless adventures
Adventure is never far in Wales. North Wales, in particular, is now considered one of Europeās top adventure destinations. Fancy flying over a quarry at 100mph? Zip World Velocity has the fastest zipline in the world. Or descend underground to Bounce Below, a giant underground trampoline park inside a disused slate mine.
Thereās also white-water rafting, canyoning, mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, and stand-up paddleboarding. Or catch a wave at Adventure Parc Snowdonia, the UKās first inland surf lagoon. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to try something new, Wales delivers.
It doesnāt stop there, either. Climbing, traversing, rib-rides, abseiling, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking are just a few of the outdoor activities on offer. You could even try your hand at surfing at the UKās only freshwater artificial surfing lake set in the lovely Conwy Valley.
Spectacular coastlines
Few places can boast 870 miles of continuous coastal path, but Wales can. The Wales Coast Path stretches the entire shorelineāfrom dramatic cliffs and craggy coves to golden beaches and charming fishing villages. You can spot dolphins off Cardigan Bay, explore the shipwrecks of the Gower Peninsula, or enjoy a peaceful walk along Pembrokeshireās Blue Flag beaches.
In summer, itās paradise. But even on grey days, the wild, windswept coast has a rugged beauty thatās hard to beat.
Cardiff, a capital with character
Cardiff is compact, creative, and full of character. The capital is bursting with world-class attractions: the historic Cardiff Castle, the waterfront Millennium Centre, the Principality Stadium, and an array of museums, markets, and art galleries.
Cardiff Bayās redevelopment has transformed the area into a bustling hub of restaurants and cultural venues, while the city centre buzzes with nightlife, shopping, and that famously passionate rugby spirit. Catch a match at the stadium and feel the city roar.
A strong cultural identity
Wales wears its identity proudly. From the unmistakable red dragon to the melodic lilt of the Welsh language, the culture is alive and well. Nearly half a million people speak Cymraeg, and youāll hear it on signs, in schools, and sung from festival stages.
Welsh music and poetry heritage runs deep. The National Eisteddfod celebrates traditional arts, while the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod brings performers from around the world to this small border town. Wales truly is the “land of song”.
Castles, myths & legends
Wales has more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world – over 600 of them! From fairy-tale towers like Castell Coch to the imposing ramparts of Caernarfon and Conwy, history is everywhere.
And with history comes legend. Wales is home to Arthurian tales, dragons, and magical folklore that weaves its way through its towns and valleys. Visiting Wales is like stepping into a storybook – except the landscapes are real.
Proper food
Welsh cuisine is hearty, local, and delicious. Whether itās Welsh rarebit (a rich cheese sauce on toast), traditional cawl (a lamb and vegetable stew), or freshly caught seafood along the coast, youāre in for a treat.
Welsh lamb is globally renowned, and Welsh cheeses like Caerphilly are gaining international recognition. Donāt forget to try some bara brith (fruit loaf) or warm Welsh cakes straight off the griddle. Food festivals across the country showcase the best of what they have to offer.
Fascinating wildlife
Wales is a sanctuary for wildlife lovers. Head to the island of Skomer in spring to see puffins, or visit the RSPB reserves where red kites soar above your head. The coastlines teem with marine life, including seals, dolphins, and even occasional basking sharks.
Inland, the national parks are home to otters, wild ponies, and a spectacular array of birds and flowers. Itās a paradise for photographers, hikers, and quiet observers alike.
Festivals all year round
Thereās always something happening in Wales. In addition to our iconic music and cultural festivals, the country hosts world-class food and drink events, sporting competitions, literary celebrations, and even quirky rural traditions like bog-snorkelling and sheep racing.
Whether youāre visiting in spring or winter, thereās a festival to discover, from Hay Festivalās literary legends to Green Manās indie music in the Brecon Beacons.
A sense of belonging
Thereās a Welsh word, āhiraethā, which has no direct English translation. It means a deep longing for home, a soulful connection to a place. Many visitors report feeling the same way after spending time here.
Wales isnāt just somewhere to see. Itās somewhere to feel. The warmth of the people, the depth of the history, and the beauty of the land leave a lasting impression. You may arrive as a tourist, but youāll leave with a piece of Wales in your heart.
Wales is waiting with open arms, roaring seas, quiet forests, and voices raised in song. Come and experience it for yourself. And if your travels take you beyond, donāt forget that neighbours in Scotland also offer stunning tours full of adventure, history, and beauty. But for now – croeso i Gymru. Welcome to Wales.
