This post has been written in collaboration with Classic Cottages, but all words and views are my own.
Considering visiting Wales? If you love ecotourism and want to enjoy a responsible trip that will take your breath away for all the right reasons, you won’t regret it.
With its diverse landscapes – including endless stunning coastal scenery – Wales is a treat for travellers who want to enjoy nature at its best.
Perhaps the best way to see as much as possible is by taking a road trip. Here’s how to plan a Wales road trip to remember, along with a full itinerary to make the most of a full week in this beautiful country.
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Why take a Wales road trip?
Wales may be a small country (around 4 hours driving from one end to the other) but there’s a whole to explore.
Having your own set of wheels will help you squeeze in as much as possible – and you’ll quickly see just how much there is to do when it comes to ecotourism in Wales!
Embarking on a road trip through Wales truly is a dream come true for nature lovers.
With its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and captivating wildlife, Wales offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking a deep connection with the natural world.
From the rugged coastline to the majestic mountains, each stretch of road unveils breath-taking vistas and hidden gems waiting to be explored.
By travelling Wales by road, you have the freedom to immerse yourself in the country’s natural wonders at your own pace, uncovering the serenity, beauty, and enchantment that Wales has to offer.
Wales Road Trip in 7 Days: Overview
So, now that you’ve decided to take a Wales road trip, where should you go?
Even though driving distances in Wales are relatively short, it makes sense to stay in a couple of different places – especially when Wales is home to some of the most beautiful places in Great Britain.
Plus, with so many unique holiday rentals from Classic Cottages to choose from, it will be almost impossible to narrow it down to just one!
Splitting your time between two bases should give you a good balance of time to explore without needing to worry about checking in and out constantly, but you could also stay in more places if you wish!
This Wales road trip itinerary assumes that you have one full week to spend exploring, but can be adapted no matter how much time you have.
If you only have a few days or a long weekend, you can choose days 1-3 or days 5-7 (and perhaps plan a second Welsh road trip to fit in the second!).
Alternatively, you could spend just one or two nights in each location, rather than the three or four that this Wales road trip itinerary allows for.
Days 1-3: South Wales
The north of Wales may be the most famous areas when it comes to parks and landmarks, but Pembrokeshire is a must-visit for nature lovers who want to experience the best of ecotourism in Wales.
If you’re travelling from England or the capital city of Cardiff, you may want to stop off in – or at least drive through – the breath-taking Bannau Brycheiniog National Park on your way.
You could easily spend an entire week exploring Pembrokeshire, but in order to see as much as possible, this Wales road trip itinerary will dedicate half of the week to the area.
Three nights is enough to see some of the highlights, focus on the types of activities you enjoy most and sample some of the amazing local restaurants without missing out on everything the rest of Wales has to offer.
Pembrokeshire is also some to some incredibly stunning and unique holiday rentals, and it’s worth spending at least a couple of nights to full enjoy your home away from home.
Where to stay in Pembrokeshire
Pembrokeshire has plenty of accommodation options for all types of travellers and all group sizes.
When you have a car, it’s easy to get around, so you can choose a place that offers an experience as well as a great place to rest your head.
- It’s almost impossible to beat the views at St Catherine’s House, which overlooks Tenby’s Castle Beach and St Catherine’s Island (which is home to a fort!). The home is perfect for larger groups and can sleep up to 16 people, offering all the comfort of being in town while still waking up to unique nature views.
- The stylishly finished Old School House is – as the name suggests – a restored former school house that offers a unique retreat for up to six people plus a cot. Its ideal location provides easy access to coastal routes, dolphin-spotting spots and surf beaches.
- Previously used during the filming of Under Milk Wood, Quay House is a home with heaps of character. It’s also great for year-round road trips to Wales, with beautiful garden areas for summer nights and a cosy wood-burner for cooler evenings.
Day 4: Road trip the Wales coast
After soaking up all that a South Wales road trip has to offer, it’s time to head north!
While the drive from Pembrokeshire to our next stop (Snowdonia) can be done in just a few hours or less, it’s worth setting aside an entire day of your Wales road trip itinerary to enjoy the journey.
As well as offering some of the most stunning coastal scenes in the United Kingdom, there are plenty of sights to see along the way.
By giving yourself an entire day, you’ll be able to enjoy a slower pace and stop anywhere that piques your interests. If you have 7 days in Wales, I strongly recommend breaking up the week with a slow driving day like this!
Days 5-7: North Wales
North Wales is home to perhaps the most famous nature attraction in the whole country: Snowdonia National Park.
Snowdonia – or Eryri, by its Welsh name – is an area rich in wildlife, history and natural beauty, and of course home to Mount Snowdon.
As well as being the largest National Park in Wales, it’s an unmissable stop for anyone who wants to experience the country’s nature.
But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t venture out of the park, too. The coastal area here has just as much to offer nature-loving travellers and adventure-seekers, so allow several days to explore as much as possible.
Where to stay in North Wales
While it’s possible to stay within the National Park, it’s easier to stay outside – especially when you have a car.
By staying in one of the nearby coastal towns or villages, you’ll get to experience more of the unique culture and local restaurants as well as the endless beauty that the region has to offer.
- Swn Y Don is a 2-bedroom home that is bright and spacious on the inside and offers incredible views over the Llyn Peninsula. It’s the perfect base to explore North Wales if you want to spend your down time relaxing in the garden or getting cosy by the fireplace.
- For a charming escape that encapsulates quintessential Welsh fishing town vibes, check in to Peveril. This 2-bedroom fisherman’s cottage is just 500m from some of the most stunning coastline in Wales.
- For a rustic retreat that’s close to Snowdonia, Bwlch Y Groes offers the ultimate countryside escape while still being close to everything. This Grade II listed home also offers mountain views and sleeps up to six people plus a cot.
Wales Road Trip – 7 Days Itinerary Planning
Planning a one week Wales road trip itinerary is almost impossible because there’s simply so much to see!
By being based in one area at a time, though, you should be able to maximise your time and enjoy a nice variety of everything there is to do here.
Since driving distances will be minimal, my advice would be to prioritise 2-4 places to visit each day of your road trip, allowing plenty of time for spontaneous stops between them.
Things to do in Pembrokeshire
Whether you prefer to get active or soak up nature in a more tranquil way, Pembrokeshire has plenty to offer travellers of all ages.
Here are some of the best activities to add to your Wales road trip itinerary and where to enjoy them.
Enjoy a coastal walk
Explore the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which boasts breath-taking coastal scenery and countless coastal walks during which you can enjoy it.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers stunning walks along the rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque villages. Look out for seabirds, seals, and, if you’re lucky, dolphins and porpoises.
Look for local wildlife
Pembrokeshire is rich in wildlife.
Skomer Island, a nature reserve renowned for its puffin colony as well as other seabirds and seals, is one of the most unique spots to see wildlife in the entire country.
It is also home to rare wildflowers and the Manx shearwater. You can also spot seals and a variety of bird species at places like Ramsey Island and the Marloes Peninsula.
Visit the Gower Peninsula
Located just just a short distance – and a scenic drive – from Pembrokeshire, the Gower Peninsula offers an extensive network of coastal paths, allowing you to embark on scenic walks along the rugged cliffs and expansive coastline.
The Gower Coast Path is particularly popular, offering panoramic views and opportunities to spot wildlife. It’s one of the best places to see seabirds, seals, and dolphins.
Take a boat trip
Get out onto the water to explore the stunning coastline and get closer to the area’s marine life.
Several operators offer wildlife tours and cruises, where you might encounter dolphins, seals, and a variety of seabirds.
Some trips also provide opportunities for fishing or visiting offshore islands.
Visit a Nature Reserve
Pembrokeshire has several nature reserves that are worth exploring.
These include the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy guided walks and observe various bird species and wetland habitats.
Other reserves like Stackpole and Bosherston Lily Ponds offer tranquil settings with diverse flora and fauna.
Coasteering
For a more adventurous experience, try coasteering, one of the most popular outdoor adventures in Pembrokeshire.
It involves traversing the rocky coastline, exploring caves, and jumping into the sea.
It’s a great way to appreciate the rugged beauty of the Pembrokeshire coast.
Beaches and Watersports
Pembrokeshire boasts many beautiful beaches, such as Barafundle Bay, Whitesands Bay, and Newgale.
Enjoy walks along the sandy shores, try your hand at surfing or paddleboarding, or simply relax and soak up the natural beauty.
Botanical Gardens
The National Botanic Garden of Wales is located just a short drive from all parts Pembrokeshire in neighbouring Carmarthenshire.
Explore the themed gardens, glasshouses, and the stunning Great Glasshouse, which houses rare and endangered plant species from around the world.
Things to do along the Welsh coastline
The Wales road trip itinerary above assumes you will head north on day 4 of your trip. If this is the case, head off as early as possible to fit in as much as possible during the journey.
You can drive mostly along the Ceredigion Coastline, which is located between Pembrokeshire and Snowdonia and is home to picturesque seaside towns, stunning cliffs, and sandy beaches.
Whether you head to a new base on the fourth day, another day or just stay in one spot, here are some spots you won’t want to miss on your Wales road trip.
Cardigan Bay
Along the coast of Ceredigion, Cardigan Bay is renowned for its diverse marine life, including dolphins, seals, and a variety of bird species.
Take a boat trip from places like New Quay or Aberaeron to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Cambrian Mountains
As you head further north from Ceredigion, you’ll come across the Cambrian Mountains.
This vast and sparsely populated area is perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquillity and wide-open spaces.
Explore the mountainous landscapes, hike along remote trails, and spot rare wildlife, such as red kites and wild ponies.
Dyfi Estuary
Situated near Machynlleth, the Dyfi Estuary is a haven for birdwatchers. It’s an important feeding ground for a variety of bird species, including ospreys, red kites, and wading birds.
Visit the Dyfi Osprey Project to learn more about these magnificent birds and potentially spot them in action.
Aberdovey and the Mawddach Estuary
Further north along the coast, Aberdovey is a charming seaside town nestled on the banks of the Mawddach Estuary.
Enjoy walks along the sandy beach, explore the estuary’s diverse habitats, and take in the best views of the surrounding mountains.
The Llyn Peninsula
Jutting out into the Irish Sea, the Llyn Peninsula is known for its unspoiled coastline and some of the beaches in Wales.
Explore areas like Abersoch and Aberdaron, where you can enjoy coastal walks, watersports, and breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and clear blue waters.
Things to do in and around Snowdonia
When it comes to the North Wales road trip, you’re going to want to dedicate at least some of your time to exploring the impressive Snowdonia National Park.
But that’s not all to do around here – far from it, the area surrounding Snowdonia is packed with unmissable spots for nature lovers. The coastline here is equally impressive, so make sure you leave some time to explore the beaches and small towns.
Here are some of the best things to do in and around Snowdonia if you have a car.
Hiking and Climbing
Snowdonia is renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, including Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales.
There are several hiking trails catering to different difficulty levels, allowing you to explore the mountains, valleys, and lakes.
For more adventurous climbers, there are opportunities for rock climbing and scrambling.
Wildlife Watching
Snowdonia is home to a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds of prey, such as red kites and peregrine falcons, as well as rare species like the chough.
The park also has populations of otters, badgers, and several species of bats.
The Glaslyn Osprey Project near Porthmadog is a popular spot for watching ospreys.
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
Located on the outskirts of Snowdonia, Coed y Brenin is a forest park offering numerous walking and mountain biking trails.
Enjoy the tranquillity of the ancient woodlands, spot wildlife, and take in the scenic beauty of the area.
Water Activities
Snowdonia is home to beautiful lakes and rivers, providing opportunities for various water activities.
You can go kayaking, canoeing, white-water rafting, or enjoy a leisurely boat trip on lakes like Llyn Padarn or Llyn Tegid.
Zip World
For an adrenaline rush, visit Zip World, which is located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience the exhilarating zip line adventures, including the longest zip line in Europe, Velocity 2, which takes you soaring over the Penrhyn Quarry.
Stargazing
Snowdonia National Park has minimal light pollution, making it an excellent destination for stargazing.
On clear nights, head to designated Dark Sky Discovery Sites, such as Llyn Geirionydd or Llyn y Dywarchen, to witness the stunning night sky.
Waterfalls and Caves
Explore the picturesque waterfalls in the park, such as Aber Falls, Swallow Falls, and Conwy Falls.
Additionally, there are caves to explore, like the famous Llechwedd Slate Caverns, where you can take guided underground tours.
Scenic Drives
Snowdonia offers breathtaking scenic drives, with winding country roads that lead through majestic mountains and picturesque villages.
Take a drive along the A498 and A4086 roads, known as the “Snowdonia Pass,” for panoramic views and stunning landscapes.
Tips for your Wales road trip
- No matter what time of year you travel to Wales, make sure you pack for all seasons! Summer months can be windy while winter months can be pleasantly sunny.
- While a road trip may be the best way to explore the Welsh nature, travelling by car isn’t the most eco-friendly way to get around. To make your trip more sustainable, consider renting a fully electric or hybrid vehicle. You can easily select this option when searching on sites like Rental Cars.
- If you don’t live in the UK, make sure you check whether you need an international driving licence to rent a car.
- If you are bringing your own car to Wales, make sure you
- Enjoy locally sourced cuisine. Wales is a destination where it’s fairly easy to enjoy food that has been grown locally. As well as trying some of the local dishes, look out for restaurants that prioritise supporting local agriculture.
- Even if you live in the UK, you won’t want to travel without insurance. Make sure you have insurance for the rental car to avoid any nasty surprises after your trip, as well as a personal policy that covers any activities you plan to partake in (such as surfing or hiking). I use and recommend HeyMondo, who offer Alajode readers a 5% discount (click here to get yours!).
- Want to extend your trip? Cornwall is just a few hours away and can be a great addition for nature lovers who want to see even more of the UK’s best natural spots.