Print Full Itinerary
Itinerary: Subject to change due to local conditions, unforeseen events, or more interesting as yet unplanned awesome experiences that become available
Overview:
There’s a certain stirring feeling of emotional energy or hwyl that emanates from the small slice of Britian known as Wales, that can only be felt through exploration from its breathtakingly rugged coast to its dramatic mountain tops. So we better get exploring!
Surrounded by coast on 3 sides, there’s so much seaside to discover. From towering clifftop paths and stretches of serene sandy beaches filled with hidden rockpools to panoramic vistas of sparkling blue sea from every direction, we’ll experience it all. We’ll wander among the diverse footpaths on the Wales Coast Path that traverses the entire coastline where each short walk will bring a new amazing view to fall in love with.
Our journey will adventure into dreamy landscapes filled with misty waterfalls, prehistoric treasures, colorful coastal towns, and captivating castles fit for a queen. We’ll delve into all the wonderfully quirky places to visit from walks with the devil to the Ugly House and the smallest house in the UK, you never know what’s around the next corner! Ancient myths, legends, and folklore that emanate from the timeless landscapes will be uncovered as we discover the magical tales of traditions along our exploration. We’ll be surrounded by friendly Welsh culture and warm hospitality and have fun taking a shot at their consonant heavy yet melodic and poetic language.
Join us as we jet off to wondrous Wales where we’ll find fulfilling days chock full of fun and adventure among the vast countryside’s incredible, stunning natural beauty.
Day One: Overnight Flight
Get comfortable and a few winks of sleep on our overnight flight we’ll awaken to a brand new day in the lovely UK!
Day Two: Lovely Lacock
As we make our way towards all the wonders of Wales, we’ll make a much-needed caffeine and food stop to refuel ourselves for our new adventures.
The lovely, quintessential village of Lacock is a perfect gem in which to wander. Take a stroll along the historic streets among its medieval atmosphere with timber framed cottages and village church.
Meander over to Lacock Abbey, a quirky country house with magnificently furnished rooms, extraordinary Gothic Hall and enchanting medieval cloisters in which to get lost.
Glorious Gardens:
As soon as we cross the border, we’ll be among Wales’ Wye Valley National Landscape, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty, the perfect place for hidden, secret garden delights.
A few difficult to visit spots lie here among the picturesque mountains, valleys, and rivers and we’ll do our best to set up a time to tiptoe through tulips.
Craig Y Nos Castle:
Although we’re quite sleepy, an amazed delightful smile will brighten our faces as we approach the gorgeous 1840s gothic castle, Craig Y Nos set among the surrounding mountains of the Brecon Beacons.
Welcome to your home for the next two nights! Get comfy and relax, then make your way for dinner at the hotel restaurant, if you can stay awake that long.
Day Three: Henrhyd Falls
It’s our first day in Wales, so let’s get out into those amazing landscapes of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. With breathtaking views and hidden valleys in every direction, we’re sure to have an unforgettable day’s adventure.
The heavenly Henrhyd Falls is the crown jewel of the national park as it tumbles 90 feet over a picturesque rock face.
A short walk will take us among its soothing beauty and if you’re brave enough, take a walk behind the cascade to feel its majestic power.
Skyrrid Inn Lunch:
Within the national park lies Wales oldest pub, the Skirrid Inn set in this scenic spot for over 900 years.
Sit back and relax for an included lunch here among an atmosphere overflowing with character and charm with roaring fires setting aglow to ancient stone walls.
Perhaps as you’re enjoying a taste of traditional pub classics, you may encounter an unexpected spooky surprise by one of the resident spirits.
Church of St. Issui:
We’ll head deeper into the greenery of the national park along winding flower filled lanes to find the Church of St. Issui, an ancient pilgrimage site in the Black Mountains that houses intriguing medieval treasures.
The story of a 6th century hermit named Issui will be told as we wander and perhaps you will find his secret well with healing powers.
Crooked St. Martins:
At the 13th century St. Martin’s Church, everything is crooked!
Due to the shifting land upon which it is built, church walls have slipped and leaned into a variety of crazy angles and the tower leans to a greater degree than the famous one in Pisa.
You’ll feel as if you’re in a carnival fun house while wandering through these incredible ancient, crooked spaces.
Llanthony Priory:
Last but not least is Llanthony Priory, a timeless treasure that maintains its former magnificence as a place purely suited for monastic life.
Wander among the ruins to be amazed by the surviving richly decorated red stonework and superb array of pointed archways that frame the lovely landscape.
We’ll follow the winding mountain roads through the scenery of the Brecon Beacons that will take your breath away until we reach our home at Craig Y Nos Castle and continue to be kings and queens for one more night.
Day Four: Merthyr Mawr
Today the coast is calling, so we must follow!
Before we reach the seaside, the winding countryside roads will lead us to the most charming hamlet of Merthyr Mawr past quaint thatched roof cottages and blooming gardens that you only find in dreams.
Step inside this living painting at the fairy tale like St. Telio’s Church with its wildflower graveyard and cheery colorful stained-glass windows.
Ogmore Castle:
A meandering stroll in this idyllic scenery brings us to an ancient stepping stone pathway across the Ewenny River then face to face with the romantic ruins of Ogmore Castle.
After a stroll back to the village and a short drive back through the perfect picture postcard, a delicious, included lunch is in store at Cobbles Sandwich Co.
Worm's Head:
The gorgeous Gower Peninsula will take us to towering coastal cliffs leading to golden sand beaches.
Our destination is Rhossili Bay where a giant sea serpent head arises from the sea creating a dreamlike island mirage.
We’ll wander along the rugged and dramatic clifftops to the old coastguard station with views, views, views all along the way. Make sure those phone batteries are charged!
Colorful Seaside Tenby:
We end our day in the colorful coastal town of Tenby that’s just as pretty as a postcard. Surrounded by an imposing medieval stone wall with a Maze of narrow little streets, it’s the perfect place to wander and explore.
After checking into our seaside home at The Esplanade, the night is yours!
Day Five: Caldey Island
Spend a leisurely, seaside morning around town, visiting the harbor or strolling to Tenby Castle, before meeting for our island adventure.
Hop aboard the ferry that will sail us to Caldey Island, a place that’s far from everyday. After an included lunch at the local tea garden café, explore this tiny island that’s home to Cistern Monks who farm the land and make the famous Caldey Island perfume and homemade chocolates.
Wander through peaceful woodlands where red squirrels dart about to the Caldey Island Lighthouse where seals like to relax on rocks and have a peek in ancient churches that dot the land.
St. Govan's Chapel:
Once back on the mainland, more coastal explorations will lead us to St. Govan’s Chapel, a hermit’s tiny stone dwelling hidden in a dramatic cliffside.
You must see it to believe it as this magical little sanctuary is shrouded in myth and legend dating from the 13th century. A stone stair path leads to the captivating limestone chapel with the sea crashing on rocks below.
Green Bridge of Wales:
A bit further up the coast is the amazingly carved Green Bridge of Wales with the sea as the artist along with Stack Rocks, two colossal limestone towers rising straight up out of the sea.
A short scenic walk along the coastal clifftops will reveal both treasures. Once back in colorful Tenby, enjoy the rest of the evening as you please.
Day Six: Cilwendeg Shell House
Have you ever seen a house made entirely of shells? Well today’s the day!
The Cilwendeg Shell House Hermitage is an extraordinary gem hidden deep within the Pembrokeshire countryside. This remarkable ornamental grotto was once a fashionable private garden retreat for the Morgan Jones family.
The complex artistic arrays of seashells, local beach minerals and fragments of colored glass create a most intricate interior that’s beyond imagination.
Pentre Ifan:
Our day of intrigue continues to the skeletal remains of Pentre Ifan, a Neolithic tomb in a haunting location.
These bare bones of an ancient, chambered tomb have remained in place for 5,000 years and would originally have been covered with an earthen mound.
The mystery lies within its placement, as the tomb perfectly silhouettes the Preseli Hills towering above, a source of the famous bluestones of Stonehenge.
Sleepy Newport:
The sleepy coastal village of Newport is where we’ll enjoy an included lunch at a great local café, then have time to wander through the town and discover the small, chambered tomb Carreg Coetan Arthur.
Strumble Head Lighthouse:
Stunning Strumble Head Lighthouse is perfectly perched on a tiny island just off the rocky Welsch coast creating a wonderful panorama.
Take in all the expansive sea views surrounding the shimmering white lighthouse tower and search for hidden seabirds resting among the cliff ledges.
Last Invasion Tapestry:
A few miles down the Coastal Path is Carreg Wastad Point, the exact spot where French soldiers invaded Britain for the last time in 1797.
A 100-foot-long Bayeux tapestry depicts the story of this Last Invasion in an entertaining and humorous fashion, so it’s a must see! We’ll stop by the Fishguard Old Town Hall to take a peek.
Enjoy the rest of your evening in Tenby however it suits your fancy.
Day Seven: Paxton's Tower
We must wave goodbye to terrific Tenby today to make our way into the north where even more glorious adventures await.
A fun Neo-Gothic folly towers atop a hillside overlooking the scenic Carmarthenshire landscape.
Paxton’s Tower is the perfect place to take a stretch and a wander with wonderful scenery to guide our way.
Abergwesen Pass:
Once we hit Wales smallest town of Llanwrtyd Wells, get out your crucifix because we’re entering the Devil’s Staircase!
Don’t close your eyes for a second, this remote, single track road winds its way through the quiet, wildly untamed landscapes of Cambrian Mountain countryside. Your eyes just might be glued to the window as we follow the Abergwesyn Pass with twists and turns through moorlands, rushing streams, perfect pine forests and sheep dotted valleys as far as the eye can see.
It’s like stepping into another world of only vast open, awe-inspiring spaces where all you can hear are the still sounds of a quiet wind.
Hafen Forest Walk:
Once back to reality in the tranquil town of Tregaron, let’s enjoy an included lunch at delicious local café.
Let’s follow the edge of the Cambrian Mountains straight to the heavenly Hafren Forest where a series of walks will enchant you.
Follow the Cascade Walk atop a lovely boardwalk path that follows the meandering River Severn or bit further on the fun Severn -Break-Its-Neck-Waterfall Trail to picturesque waterfall scenery.
Conwy Castle Hotel:
Rest your legs on the rest of our journey that ends in the charming medieval town of Conwy. Well preserved ancient walls still enclose the town’s narrow cobbled streets and hidden nooks and crannies filled with history.
Tucked within these age-old walls is our new home, the Castle Hotel, that has served weary travelers like us since the 15th century. Get comfy and enjoy your night.
Day Eight: Conwy Castle
Thanks to King Edward I, today we explore the magnificent medieval fortress of Conwy Castle. All its grandeur and strategic brilliance can be felt throughout its thick stone walls and eight soaring towers and atop the battlements that can be walked upon today offering the most spectacular views.
Sneak through the servants’ passageways and wander among the suite of royal apartments, great hall and haunting chapel where a ghostly monk may still be seen.
Tu Hwnt I'r Bont:
It’s time for tea! And an included lunch at the most charming, 15th century Tu Hwnt I’r Bont Tearoom set in the quaint small town of Llanrwst.
Here we’ll experience Welsch culture and hospitality among a beautiful flowery garden setting while dining on delectable homemade bites.
Gwydir Castle:
The ancient Welsch home of Gwydir Castle is right around the corner, so let’s step inside its romantic, evocative atmosphere and get acquainted.
After falling into ruin, this fine Welsch Tudor house has gone under an amazing 20-year restoration that’s still a work in progress today.
Gwydir Uchaf Chapel:
An incredible lavish interior of blended Gothic and Renaissance styles is hiding within Gwydir Uchaf Chapel’s simple stone exterior, so let’s grab the key from the Key Keeper and have ourselves a look.
There’s sure to be a wow moment as the wooden doors open to a well-preserved 17th century character and cherubs gazing at us from ceiling to walls.
Lovely Llanrwst:
Let’s fall in love with lovely Llanrwst and wander through its charms like the three arched bridge across the River Conwy, cute St. Grwsts Church, calming Riverside Walk and quaint downtown with artisan shops.
Once back at Conwy Castle Hotel, enjoy the evening as you please.
Day Nine: Beddgelert
The Snowdonia National Park is calling, so off we go! Beguiling Beddgelert, one of the loveliest villages in Snowdonia, is a special unspoilt place filled with legend, history and culture, making it the perfect place in which to wander.
Take a stroll through the picturesque stone built village and if you fancy a walk, join us as we follow the legend of Prince Llewelyn and Gelert straight to Gelert’s grave along a delightful riverside pathway.
Walk a bit further to catch more scenery at the wooden footbridge, then cross the other side of River Colwyn where the meandering path will take us back into town.
Loveable Llanberis:
A scenic Snowdonia drive will take us to loveable Llanberis where a stroll along High Street will be a great place to find a spot for lunch.
If you’re up for a castle adventure, the solitary stone tower of Dolbadarn Castle surrounded by sweeping views of Snowdonia is a short walk away.
Snowdonia Mountain Railway:
This afternoon is a journey like no other aboard the Snowdonia Mountain Railway.
This 3-hour excursion will take us into the heights and depths of Snowdonia, past perfectly plunging waterfalls, through rock littered landscapes, by the boulder home of a child hunting witch, up to the summit where spectacular panoramas await.
During our 30-minute stopover, you can venture up even further to the tippy top, the highest point in Wales and England, where incredible views stretch as far as Ireland and where you can be king or queen of the world!
After arriving back in Conwy, have a lovely night!
Day Ten: South Stack Lighthouse
Today will be an island dream!
Perched on the edge of the tiny isle of Anglesey we’ll find the South Stack Lighthouse standing proudly with surrounding stunning sea views. The craggy cliffs of South Stack are a haven for nesting seabird colonies, just follow the squawking and you’ll be amazed by how many you see.
Funny enough, to find the lighthouse, we’ll have to island hop across three different islands that were once all connected to the mainland. Thousands of years of crashing waves against rocky cliffs have separated them into Anglesey, Holy Island and South Stack Island, so we’ll be stepping along large sea stacks!
Plas yn Rhiw:
As we hop our way back across to the mainland, we’ll make our way towards the wide-open spaces and dazzling vistas of the Llyn Peninsula National Landscape.
The delightful manor house, Plas yn Rhiw set within a spectacular coastal spot is a perfect place to wander.
First, we’ll enjoy an included lunch at the local tearoom, then explore celebrated poet RS Thomas’ manor house and its ornamental gardens framed by box hedges and grass paths.
Adorable Aberdaron:
Onto adorable Aberdaron, quaint fishing village with a warm Welsch welcome. Take a stroll around the tiny town and see what treasures you may find.
Mynydd Mawr:
We’ll be blown away by our next coastal spot of Mynydd Mawr set upon the westernmost point of North Wales.
Here at the very tip of the Llyn Peninsula, we can experience the sound of silence. It’s an amazing and rare place that’s free of man-made noise, so relax and unwind with nature’s chorus, the sea, the birds, and the wind.
Porthdinalen
If we can tear ourselves away from such peacefulness and beauty, we’ll follow the north coast road to the picture-perfect fishing village, Porthdinalen.
Take some time to wander and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and perhaps stop in for a pint at the Ty Coch Tavern.
It’s been a long day of island dreams, so rest your weary bones and have a relaxing night.
Day Eleven: Penrhyn Castle
If you haven’t gotten enough castles, then you’re in for a treat!
The fantastical Penrhyn Castle with its elaborately decorated rooms is all dressed to impress rich and famous guests.
Step inside to discover the Pennant family’s vast luxurious rooms, Gothic carved stairways, and priceless art around every corner.
The Ugly House:
After we’re sufficiently wowed, we go from gorgeous to Ty Hyll, The Ugly House to enjoy an included spot of tea and a homemade lunch.
You’ll find The Ugly House isn’t actually ugly at all but a quite charming stone-built mystery set in a picturesque spot in Snowdonia, so sit back and enjoy!
Swallow Falls:
Let’s follow the flowing River Llugwy straight to Swallow Falls where it cascades through a narrow chasm over a dramatic rocky surface creating a multi-tiered tumbling treasure.
Fairy Glen:
More of nature’s wonders await at the enchanting Fairy Glen.
Walk into the magical emerald greenery while looking out for resident fairies and sprites past spellbinding rock formations and tumbling cascades of water.
Betws y Coed:
As we continue deeper into Snowdonia valley, our journey takes us to bewitching Betws y Coed, a quaint Victorian village once renowned as an artist colony.
Take a stroll around the shop filled streets, pop into 14th century St. Michaels Church, and wander into the Gwydir Forest along the Coed Tan Dinas boardwalk trail past giant Douglas firs and serene woodlands.
Enjoy another charming night as you please in Conwy.
Day Twelve: Gwrych Castle
We can’t start the day without another castle, so let’s get going! Gorgeous Gwrych Castle is an impressive Gothic ruin set on the most picture-perfect coastline filled with stunning sea views.
Wander among its majestic stone walls, through nooks and crannies with fairy tale splendor at every turn.
Gladstone Library:
Another hidden gem not too far away is Gladstone Library, every bookworm’s dream!
This isn’t just any ole library, this unique spot that’s home to over 150,000 books also has quaint accommodations to spend the night and a cozy café to feed your mind and soul.
This is where we’ll enjoy an included lunch, then take a wander through the amazing library and get lost in its beautiful silent spaces.
Pontcysllte Aqueduct:
Carry that peacefulness with you as we cross the stream in the sky along the stunning Pontcysllte Aqueduct.
This creative masterpiece carries water from the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee and today we’ll take a stroll in the sky atop 19 beautiful arches towards incredible views of the valley.
Henley-in-Arden:
Now we must wave goodbye to wondrous Wales and make our way closer to London, but don’t be sad, our destination is one of the prettiest towns in England.
Henley-in-Arden has a mile long High Street filled with medieval, Tudor and Victorian architecture and charm with local shops and plenty of restaurants, there’s much to explore.
After checking into the White Swan Hotel that’s been providing cozy rooms for travelers for 600 years, enjoy our last night in the UK.
Day Thirteen: Breakfast & Flight Home
It’s time to say ta-ra! And make our way to London Heathrow where our plane awaits to whisk us back home filled with all the magical memories of wondrous Wales.
Pricing & Departures:
This will be a Special, Intimate Small Group tour with a max of 7.
Price per person is $ Twin & $ Single. No reservations accepted without a deposit of $500 per person. Make checks payable to “Group Tours & Travel”, and mail to our address above. Final payment is due February 10, 2027. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after February 10, 2027. Group Tours is not responsible for any delays, cancellations, injuries or circumstances beyond its control and reserves the right to change the itinerary. All trip components are subject to change in accordance with Government, State and Local guidelines and/or mandates. Travel protection/cancellation coverage is available and highly recommended, but not included. This tour will run rain or shine.
Air transportation is provided by United Airlines. A surcharge will apply if United Airlines increases the price of its airfare. One piece of luggage per person (baggage fee by United is included) and one small carry-on are permitted. A valid, government-issued passport is required to board the plane.
May: Flight # departs Newark at PM and arrives in London at AM
May: Flight # departs London at PM and arrives in Newark at PM
*Due to the changes in airline booking policies, airfare will need to be booked before the cancellation date, Once flights are booked, we cannot refund that portion of the tour unless you’d like to pay an additional cost for refundable tickets.
Upon submitting final payment you are agreeing to our new policy.
Wet Blanket Policy:
Wet blanket
– a person who makes it difficult for other people to enjoy themselves by complaining, acting negatively, creating drama, etc.
– one that quenches or dampens enthusiasm or pleasure
- Our philosophy of travel involves getting out of the ordinary to experience other cultures and places with an open minded attitude and flexibility. Since as in daily life, anything can and will happen, let’s embrace these situations with acceptance and understanding because they will either lead to an unexpected, amazing experience or positive learning experience.
- If anyone brings along excess baggage such as incessant complaining, under the breath rude comments, outward negativity or other such behaviors that infect the entire group or individuals, we have the exclusive right to remove them from the tour at their own cost with no refunds. (yes, this means you)
- If any major concerns arise during a tour, please just come talk to us and we’ll work it out!
The Educated Wanderer
Group Tours & Travel
PO Box 632 Berwyn, PA 19312
973-513-9001