Best Road Trips in Wales
Wales is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful drives. Beyond the more densely populated south, where you’ll find the only highway, narrow, undulating lanes criss-cross the land, meaning travel can be slow. However, there’s no need to rush when your surroundings consist of sky-skimming mountains, deep green valleys, and swaths of pristine coastline.
Fasten your seatbelts. Here are the best road trips to take in Wales.
The Coastal Way
Best road trip for sea views and beaches
Start – Aberdaron; End – St Davids; Distance – approx 180 miles
This route covers the entire length of Cardigan Bay. The sweeping curve of the Irish Sea looks like it’s taken a huge bite out of the Welsh west coast and spoils travelers with its secluded beaches and charming seaside towns.
- Scour the sand for fossils and shells at Aberdaron Beach.
- Hit the road toward Porthmadog for a heritage steam train ride amidst Snowdonia’s skyline.
- Discover the village of Portmeirion, with its ornate, Italian-inspired facades.
- Check out Harlech’s expansive beach overlooked by a UNESCO-listed castle.
The next day, take an early morning dip at Mwnt Beach, known for dolphin spotting, and search for hidden coves and cliff-top selfie spots in Pembrokeshire. The county’s entire coastline is a designated national park.
The Cambrian Way
Best road trip for mountain scenery
Start – Cardiff; End – Conwy; Distance – approx 185 miles
The Cambrian Way, which cuts north to south through the verdant heart of Wales, offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy patchwork fields, dense forests, and rolling hills blanketed by sheep.
- Travel from Cardiff through the Brecon Beacons and into Powys.
- Spend the night in Rhayader, a gateway to Elan Valley.
- Experience activities like hiking up Pumlumon Fawr or mountain biking in Snowdonia National Park.
As you continue north, enjoy sights of roadside slate piles near Blaenau Ffestiniog, a town recognized for its mining legacy.
The North Wales Way
Best road trip for castles and culture
Start – Mold; End – Holyhead; Distance – approx 75 miles
This route spans Wales’ short but scenic north coast, providing road trippers with a chance to encounter Welsh history, language, and culture in a spectacular setting.
- Summit Moel Famau for epic views of Snowdonia.
- Explore Ruthin, known for its castle and museums.
- Visit seaside resort towns like Colwyn Bay and Llandudno.
As you head west towards Bangor, don’t miss a detour to Caernarfon Castle.
Border Country
Best road trip for crowd-free escapes
Start – Chepstow; End – Wrexham; Distance – approx 171 miles
This border-hugging route will take you to some of Wales’ most underrated sites, allowing for a leisurely drive along narrow back roads.
- Admire the roofless ruins of Tintern Abbey and lesser-known castles.
- Visit Hay-on-Wye for a unique shopping experience.
- Walk across the UNESCO-listed Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, the highest canal aqueduct ever built.
Finish your adventure in Wrexham, where you can explore the largest medieval church in Wales and discover the historic Erddig estate.
South Wales Circuit
Best road trip for a bit of everything
Start – Cardiff; End – Chepstow; Distance – approx 333 miles
This lengthy loop encapsulates everything that makes Wales wonderful. From culture-packed cities and charming towns to breathtaking beaches and stunning mountains, there is plenty to explore.
- Experience vibrant city life in Cardiff and Swansea.
- Seek out the best beaches at the Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
- Discover the smallest city, St Davids, with its adventurous surrounding coastline.
In conclusion, Wales presents diverse and scenic road trip routes that ensure unforgettable experiences. Whether you appreciate culture, history, or natural beauty, there is a journey waiting to be discovered.
