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Wonder of Wales: From Cliffs to Valleys
Cardiff, Wales
8 Days
From $7495
Hiking and Culture
Wonder of Wales: From Cliffs to Valleys
Cardiff, Wales
8 Days
From $7495
Hiking and Culture
Trip Overview
Hike Through History—Castles, Coastlines & Culture in Wales
Welcome to Wales, a land where ancient castles crown green hillsides, windswept cliffs meet turquoise seas, and the melody of the Welsh language fills the air. On this 8-day journey, we'll uncover the country's spectacular natural beauty and enduring spirit—from its coastal trails and prehistoric monuments to its lively market towns and mountain summits.
Our adventure begins in the dynamic capital of Cardiff with a guided city walk through its modern heart and medieval past before we head west to the Pembrokeshire Coast. Here, we'll hike dramatic seaside paths, watch waves crash against rugged cliffs, and wander the cobbled streets of St Davids, Britain's smallest city and a spiritual center of Welsh heritage.
Traveling north, we pause at the mysterious Pentre Ifan standing stones and the cascading Devil's Bridge Falls, timeless landmarks that connect us to the country's mythic roots. Our final days are spent amid the wild grandeur of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, where Welsh traditions remain vibrant. We'll trace the Aberglaslyn Gorge, explore the Sygun Copper Mine, and choose to summit Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)—the highest peak in Wales—either on foot or aboard its scenic mountain railway.
We close our journey with a walk in the glacial Cwm Idwal Valley and a guided visit through the medieval town of Conwy, whose UNESCO-listed castle stands as a proud sentinel of Welsh resilience. From castles and coastlines to culture and community, this trip celebrates the heart and soul of Wales. Croeso i Gymru—Welcome to Wales!
Maximum group size: 14
Highlights
- Cardiff city walking tour
- Clifftop hikes along the Pembrokeshire Coast
- Prehistoric Pentre Ifan and Devil's Bridge Falls
- Trails of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park
- Summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) by foot or railway
- Medieval Conwy and its UNESCO-listed castle
Inclusions
- A local guide and an AGC guide depending on group size
- Seven nights double occupancy lodging
- Meals from Dinner on Day 1 to Lunch on Day 8 (excluding dinner on day 5)
- Ground transportation in Wales, including airport transfer on the final day
- All activities noted on the itinerary
Not included: Travel to and from Wales, transportation to the hotel on Day 1, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities, optional activities, and Travel Insurance.
Trip Info
This trip is for women who have some experience hiking and want to combine hiking with immersion in the history and culture of the area. We spend 3-6 hours hiking on most days at elevations ranging from sea level to 3560' (Mt. Snowdon is the highest elevation, hike by foot or ascend by historic train). Hiking in Wales is quite varied from good mountain footpaths to uneven ground. A rating of 3 requires aerobic conditioning for a minimum of 30 - 45 minutes 3 to 4 days a week.
Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5
Curious about how we rate our trips and how to prepare for yours? Explore our AGC Fitness Guide for more details.
On this trip we combine hiking in Wales' three very different landscapes while learning about its history and culture. In addition to hiking we'll visit Wales most famous castles, visit St Davids, one of the highlights of any Welsh visit, and explore majestic and tranquil sites from mountain to sea.
Wondering what kind of gear works well for our trips? Our AGC Gear Guide highlights some of our go-to favorites.
We'll be staying in locally owned inns and lodges, in double occupancy rooms with en suite bathrooms. Please note: Not all lodgings have elevators (lifts). It is essential that you follow the packing list closely, pack light and be able to handle your own luggage, including carrying up multiple stairs.
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Itinerary
Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests.
DAY 1
Arrive in Cardiff and check into your city center hotel at 3 p.m. today. We'll meet at the bar at 3:30 p.m. for a welcome chat before embarking on an insightful and intimate walking tour of the city. Our night will end with a welcome dinner. Those of us who just arrived will undoubtedly be jetlagged, so we'll make sure we get to bed early.
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Indigo (or similar), Cardiff
Included Meals: Dinner
Accommodations: Hotel Indigo (or similar), Cardiff
DAY 2
Today our journey begins with a transfer to the Gower Peninsula, the first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the UK and a jewel set along the spectacular Pembrokeshire coast. Here we'll stretch our legs on this beautiful trail. This enchanting four-mile route follows clifftops and shady woodland, pausing at the atmospheric ruins of Pennard Castle and the sweeping sands of Three Cliffs Bay. From the castle's hilltop perch, the views spill out over the tidal estuary and the iconic beach below, before the path dips down onto the sand and winds back through the lush, green folds of Pennard Valley. From here we'll continue on to the tiny cathedral city of St Davids, where we'll settle into our hotel and gather for dinner.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Twr Y Felin Hotel (or similar), St Davids
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 km/4 miles)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Twr Y Felin Hotel (or similar), St Davids
Daily Activities: Hiking (~6 km/4 miles)
DAY 3
Wake up to the invigorating fresh sea air, and after breakfast, today we'll explore the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, where every turn reveals sculpted cliffs, salt-lashed air, and seabirds wheeling over the Atlantic. Your first destination: the remnants of Nons Chapel then onto Porthclais, a tiny, historic harbor tucked into a rocky inlet. Once a key landing point for St David himself, it's now a peaceful spot, perfect for pausing watching the tide ease in. From Porthclais, the path winds westward, skimming along wildflower-strewn clifftops and secluded coves. Keep your eyes peeled for grey seals basking on the rocks below. The final stretch northward takes in some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Wales. Paddle in the shallows, take a swim if you're brave, or simply stretch out on the sand and take it all in. Later, visit St Davids Cathedral and Bishop's Palace before heading back to your hotel for a relaxed evening.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Twr Y Felin Hotel (or similar), St Davids
Daily Activities: Hiking (~13 km/8 miles)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Twr Y Felin Hotel (or similar), St Davids
Daily Activities: Hiking (~13 km/8 miles)
DAY 4
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before we journey north into Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Along the way, we'll stop at Pentre Ifan to stretch our legs and take in the striking remains of a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb. Though it's a transfer day, there's still time for a scenic walk and a visit to Devil's Bridge Falls, known for its cascading waterfalls and the extraordinary three-tiered bridge spanning the Rheidol Gorge, three stone bridges built one atop the other, each with its own story. After lunch, we'll arrive in the picturesque village of Beddgelert, named after Gelert, the faithful hound in one of Wales' most poignant legends. Alongside its famous tale, the village is also known for its irresistible artisan ice creams, not to be missed! Finally we'll reach our hotel, later in the afternoon, our base for the next three nights.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
DAY 5
Snowdon, also known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, proudly stands as the highest mountain south of the Scottish Highlands. Though its elevation of 3,560 feet may not compete with the giants of the world, Snowdon remains an impressive and rewarding peak, shaped over time by the forces of glaciers. Today offers several options for your Yr Wyddfa adventure. Those seeking a physical challenge can hike from Pen-y-Pass along the Pyg Track to the summit and return on foot. And, those preferring a more leisurely ascent, you can ride the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway return from Llanberis. Time permitting, those not hiking by foot can also explore part of the Snowdonia Slate Trail, experiencing the unique slate landscape of North Wales' newest World Heritage Site. Dinner is not included this so you can relax and dine at your leisure.
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
Daily Activities: Hiking (~11 km/7 miles)
Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
Daily Activities: Hiking (~11 km/7 miles)
DAY 6
A short transfer this morning, we'll start the day with a rewarding circular walk, leading us through the dramatic Aberglaslyn Gorge, where the Glaslyn River surges alongside the trail. Along the way, you'll visit Bedd y Ci, the legendary grave of Prince Llywelyn's loyal hound, and pause by the tranquil waters of Llyn Dinas. The route also passes the historic copper workings at Sygun, one of Wales' true wonders—a striking example of industrial heritage reclaimed, restored, and transformed into an unforgettable visitor experience. Here, you can take a self-guided tour before returning to the hotel to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
Daily Activities: Hiking (9 km/6 miles)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Ty'n Rhos Country House (or similar), Caernarfon
Daily Activities: Hiking (9 km/6 miles)
DAY 7
After an earlier breakfast, we'll set off on our final day with a walk into Cwm Idwal, a striking glaciated hanging valley where rare arctic-alpine plants cling to rocky ledges and scree. As you explore the ice-carved basin and the clear waters of Llyn Idwal, your guide will share insights into the unique and fragile flora that makes this area so special. From here, we'll drive to the magnificent seaside town of Conwy, renowned for its UNESCO-designated medieval buildings, including the impressive Conwy Castle. Here, we'll meet our local guide for an insightful walking tour, bringing the town's rich history to life. After enjoying the tour, we'll set off for Manchester. Tonight is our last evening together, let's raise a glass, bidding farewell to Wales and all the wonders we've discovered along the way.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Eleven Didsbury Park (or similar), Didsbury Village
Daily Activities: Walking (5 km/3 miles)
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Eleven Didsbury Park (or similar), Didsbury Village
Daily Activities: Walking (5 km/3 miles)
DAY 8
After breakfast we say goodbye to your guide team and fellow travelers. Depart for onward travel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Reviews
This trip is brand new — be among the very first to experience it with AGC!
Dates & Prices
| Year | Departure Date | Availability | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2026 |
September 03 to September 10 |
Available |
$7495.00 |
Year
2026
Departure Date
September 03 to September 10, 2026
Availability
Available
Price
$7495.00
Make It Your Adventure
Turn any trip into a private experience for your group, or let us design a custom itinerary just for you! Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, we’ll make your journey unforgettable.
Common Questions
Breakfasts will be buffets at the hotels where we're staying. Dinner is in restaurants; sometimes you'll order off the menu, other times you'll have a choice of vegetarian or non-vegetarian entree. Lunches may either be picnics or in restaurants.
If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.
You only need to pay a single supplement if you want to guarantee you have your own room. Otherwise we’ll pair you up with someone and then switch roommates every time we switch lodging.
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