Wales has been popular among the British for years, it’s the hidden GEM of the United Kingdom, and is the most charming country in the UK. With spectacular scenery, a vibrant Celtic identity and culture, it’s known for it’s male-voice choirs, poetry and has insatiable passion for rugby & team sports. Wales definitely has something for everyone.
Much of the Welsh countryside is covered by the Cambrian Mountain range, which effectively acts as a barrier from England and is unsuitable for farming but perfect for sheep and cattle, which dot the land. The drove roads, along which sheep used to be driven across the hills to England, are now popular walking trails. The terrain is pretty rugged, and is the reason the Welsh have managed to maintain their separate identity and their ancient language. Welsh is now spoken by a good portion of today’s population, and is part of the daily educational curriculum for all Welsh children. In addition, Welsh heritage is steeped in song, music, poetry and legend rather than handcrafts, with the exception of the carved Welsh lovespoons. The Welsh love of music derives from the ancient bards: minstrels and poets who are said to be associated with the Druids. Bardic Tales of quasi-historical figures and magic were part of the oral tradition of the Dark Ages. They were first written down in the 14th century as the Mabinogion which has inspired Welsh poets up to the 20th century’s Dylan Thomas.
Although the country is small, the kindness and welcoming nature of the Welsh is as unparalleled as is it’s beautiful landscapes. Wales has become and outdoor adventurers and foodies paradise, in addition to it’s historic castles, Roman and cultural sites, it is also known as a mountain bikers haven. The best part, Wales is only a couple of hours from most of the major destinations in the UK, is easily accessible by train or car and should be included in every British holiday.
Trending Cities
Aberystwyth, Betws-y-Coed, Caernarfon Blaenafon, Cardiff, Caerleon, Conwy, Hay-on-Wye, Knighton, Llandudno, Llangollen, Machynlleth, Pembrokeshire, Swansea, Tenby.
Highlights
Aberconwy House, Bala Lake, Beaumaris Castle, Brecon Beacons, Caernarfon Castle, Cardiff Castle, Conwy Castle, Ffestiniog Railway, Gower Peninsula, Llanberis, Llangollen Canal, Lleyn Peninsula, Monnow Bridge, Portmeirion, Smallest House, Snowdon, Snowdonia National Park, St Davids, St Mary’s Church, Tintern Abbey, Wales Millennium Stadium.
