By Wales is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and rugged charm. With three National Parks, over 600 castles, and hundreds of miles of coastline, this Celtic nation offers some of the most beautiful places in the UK—without the crowds of London or the Lake District.
Whether you love mountains, beaches, quaint villages, or waterfalls, here are the most beautiful places in Wales to add to your bucket list.
Snowdonia National Park (Eryri)
- Region: North Wales
- Home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales
- Glacial lakes, rocky peaks, and scenic hiking trails
- Try the Snowdon Mountain Railway for easy summit access
Top hike: Rhyd Ddu Path or the Watkin Path
Conwy Castle & Town
- Region: North Wales
- UNESCO-listed medieval fortress with spectacular towers
- Surrounded by 13th-century walls and the River Conwy
- Charming town with shops, seafood, and Britain’s smallest house
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park
- Region: West Wales
- Dramatic cliffs, sandy coves, and turquoise waters
- Famous for Barafundle Bay, St Govan’s Chapel, and Stack Rocks
- Ideal for coastal walks and kayaking
Portmeirion Village
- Region: Gwynedd, North Wales
- A colourful Italian-style village on the coast
- Unique architecture and tropical gardens
- Filming location for The Prisoner TV series
New Quay & Cardigan Bay
- Region: Ceredigion, Mid-Wales
- Famous for dolphin spotting and golden beaches
- Great for boat trips and seaside cafés
- Nearby Llangrannog and Aberaeron are also scenic
Brecon Beacons National Park (Bannau Brycheiniog)
- Region: South Wales
- Rolling hills, waterfalls, and dark sky reserves
- Climb Pen y Fan, the highest point in South Wales
- Discover the Four Waterfalls Walk
Pistyll Rhaeadr
- Region: Powys
- Wales’ highest single-drop waterfall at 73 metres
- Tucked into the Berwyn Mountains
- Peaceful and perfect for photography
Cadair Idris
- Region: Southern Snowdonia
- Mythical mountain known as the “Chair of Idris”
- Dramatic ridge walks, lakes, and folklore
- Popular with experienced hikers
Rhossili Bay
- Region: Gower Peninsula, South Wales
- Voted one of the best beaches in Europe
- Expansive sands, coastal trails, and the iconic Worm’s Head
- Great for surfing, walking, and sunsets
Betws-y-Coed
- Region: Conwy Valley
- Gateway to Snowdonia with alpine-style charm
- Surrounded by forests, rivers, and waterfalls
- Perfect for walkers, artists, and outdoor enthusiasts
Elan Valley
- Region: Mid-Wales
- Series of Victorian dams and reservoirs
- Surrounded by peaceful moorlands and scenic cycling routes
- Great for stargazing and wildlife
Devil’s Bridge Falls
- Region: Ceredigion
- Series of waterfalls beneath three stacked bridges
- Mythical folklore and forested trails
- Accessible loop trail with dramatic viewpoints
Llyn Padarn
- Region: Llanberis, North Wales
- Scenic glacial lake with mountain reflections
- Famous for the “Lone Tree” photography spot
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside walks
Caernarfon Castle
- Region: North Wales
- One of the grandest medieval castles in Europe
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Located by the Menai Strait with striking polygonal towers
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
- Region: Wrexham
- “The stream in the sky” – 38m high canal aqueduct
- UNESCO-listed engineering marvel
- Walk across or take a canal boat ride for epic views
Llyn y Fan Fach
- Region: Carmarthenshire
- A remote glacial lake with mystical legends
- Linked to the tale of the Lady of the Lake
- Stunning hike in the western Brecon Beacons
Abersoch
- Region: Llŷn Peninsula
- Chic seaside town popular with surfers and sailors
- Calm waters, pastel huts, and coastal walks
- Plenty of boutique shops and beach bars
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
- Region: Gwynedd
- Mountain biking and walking trails through ancient forest
- Waterfalls, wildlife, and picnic spots
- Family-friendly outdoor activities year-round
Lake Vyrnwy
- Region: Powys
- Victorian reservoir surrounded by woodland and hills
- Fairytale-style Gothic stone dam
- Canoeing, birdwatching, and spa hotels
Cwm Idwal
- Region: Snowdonia
- A dramatic glacial cwm (valley) with lake and cliffs
- Geological hotspot and outdoor climbing paradise
- Stunning loop walk for all abilities
Tenby
- Region: Pembrokeshire
- Colourful seaside town with Georgian houses and sandy beaches
- Medieval walls and harbourfront eateries
- Easy access to Caldey Island
Travel Tips for Exploring Beautiful Places in Wales
- Best time to visit: April–October for mild weather and green landscapes
- Getting around: Rent a car for rural areas; trains and buses work for major routes
- What to pack: Waterproofs, walking shoes, layers for changeable weather
- Language: Welsh and English—place names may be in both
- Stay options: From castles and cottages to campsites and eco-lodges
Conclusion
From towering mountains and pristine lakes to colourful towns and dramatic coastlines, Wales is packed with jaw-dropping scenery that rivals anywhere in Europe. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual explorer, these beautiful places in Wales promise unforgettable moments and photo-worthy views.
FAQs
Q 1: What is the most beautiful part of Wales?
Many consider Snowdonia National Park and the Pembrokeshire Coast among the most beautiful parts of Wales, thanks to their dramatic mountains and scenic shorelines.
Q 2: Where should I go for a scenic holiday in Wales?
For a scenic getaway, try Betws-y-Coed, Rhossili Bay, or Portmeirion—all offer beauty, tranquillity, and easy access to nature.
Q 3: What are the best natural landmarks in Wales?
Top natural spots include Mount Snowdon, Pistyll Rhaeadr, Llyn Padarn, and the Gower Peninsula beaches.
Q 4: Is Wales good for walking and hiking?
Absolutely! Wales has some of the UK’s best hikes, including Pen y Fan, Cadair Idris, and the Wales Coast Path (870 miles long!).
Q 5: Are there any hidden gems in Wales?
Yes! Llyn y Fan Fach, Devil’s Bridge Falls, and Coed y Brenin are off-the-beaten-track spots that offer breathtaking views without the crowds.
Also read: Holly Bush Pub Hampstead London: 10 Irresistible Reasons to Visit This Charming Spot
