The Ultimate Wales Bucketlist

Wales is well known for its dramatic coastlines, magnificent mountain ranges and fiercely patriotic culture, and there is an array of activities that make it a fantastic destination for a holiday in 2017.

Come rain or shine; there’s always something to keep everyone happy in this joyful land; from reading the books in Hay-on-Wye to trying your hand at bog snorkeling in Llanwrtyd Wells. Below is a bucket list for you to begin during your holiday to Wales in 2017!

Visit a castle (or 20!)

Wales is often referred to as ‘The Land of the Castles’, a title that is well-deserved as with over 600 in Wales alone, they have more castles per square mile than anywhere else in the world. Explore the turbulent past of the settlements while imagining what life would have been like all those years ago. Visit one, five or a hundred of these fascinating fortresses; the novelty will not wear off anytime soon.

Walk the Worms Head

The Worms Head, in Gower, gets its name from its physical appearance taking on that of a sea serpent and marks the most Westerly point of the Gower. Check the tides before scrambling you way over to what seems like the edge of the world, and enjoy the extensive views of the Bristol Channel that stretch out before you. Just remember to make tracks before the tide cuts you off!

Spend a day at Barafundle Bay

One of the most beautiful beaches in Wales, the UK and, arguably, Europe, Barafundle Bay is truly a spectacle for visitors to Wales. Wait for a sunny day before hitting the sands with bucket and spade in hand, ready for an action-packed day of activities!

Visit the smallest city in the UK

Opt for a stay in some St David’s holiday cottages before exploring the wealth of interesting sites this city has on offer. This spot is a great destination to indulge in art as well as the inevitable visit to learn all about the infamous 12^th-century cathedral in the heart of the city.

Have an ice cream at the seaside

This is practically a necessity during your holiday in Wales, and you mustn’t miss the opportunity to indulge on a local delicacy.

Go for a surf

Wales benefits from some impressive Atlantic swells, making it the perfect place to learn to surf or develop existing skills. Make the most of any of the surf schools and academies on offer in Wales. Take the plunge during colder months, just remember a flask of hot chocolate for after!

Watch a game of Rugby

If nothing else, the Welsh are passionate about their sport, with a particular focus on all things rugby. If you can, plan a trip for when the national team is playing, so you can soak up the incredible, game-day atmosphere in the city centre. Failing that, pop over to the local ground on the weekend where you can catch some promising talent playing a game against a rival town.

Get romantic on Llandwyn Island

In Wales they have a patron saint of lovers of their own in the form of St Dwynwen and celebrate everything love-related in January. The story follows a woman who fell in love with a man, but was banned from marrying him by her father. As a result, she dedicated the rest of her life to helping others in pain from love-related issues from a chapel on Llandwyn Island – hence the romantic connection. Stop for a romantic picnic and explore this mysterious island with your special someone.

Go dolphin spotting at Cardigan Bay

Wales is one of the best locations in the UK to spot dolphins, with Britain’s biggest resident population of dolphins residing in Cardigan Bay. These beautiful creatures are so common here; you’d be unlucky not to spot one and may even see seals, whales and basking sharks on your travels!

Walk the entire coast path

A coast path lines the entire country of Wales, meaning technically you could explore everywhere and walk the whole thing! Many opt for smaller sections at a time, where you can leisurely stroll the trail, taking the time to appreciate your surroundings and stopping for that all-important picnic!

Pint at the Ty Coch Inn

This remote pub in Porthdinllaen sits right on the beach front, overlooking the Irish Sea, and was voted the third best beach bar in the world, in a list compiled by travel agency Cheap Flights. The Welsh hot spot beat places in Australia, Florida and the Caribbean, so come for a drink to see what all the fuss is about yourself!

Climb Snowdon

Climbing this magnificent mountain is a challenge that should be completed during your time in Wales. There are several trails and routes that lead to the peak, catering for different hiking capabilities and giving everyone a chance to reach the top. All the hard work will be worth it when you reach the peak and can marvel in the panoramic views from the summit.

Visit Barry Island

This charming little town is full of character and will be all too familiar for fans of the BBC sitcom Gavin and Stacey. Visit the arcade on the seafront, have a laugh on the waterfront rides or simply relax on the beach – a great spot for a fun day out for all the family.

Bog snorkeling in Llanwrtyd Wells

If you’ve always wanted to try bog snorkeling – and we’re sure you have – why not head down to Llanwrtyd Wells, where the National Championships are held each year? If you don’t fancy it yourself, visit in August and watch others attempt the snorkel; some going for record-breaking times and others in fancy dress, causing much hilarity among spectators. Check it out for an experience like no other, that could only that could only be found in Wales.

Image credit: Michel Curi under creative commons.