Overview
Down the middle of Wales runs a spine of high ground: Snowdonia in the north, the Cambrian Mountains, and the Bannau in the south. The Cambrian Way follows it for 185 miles, from Llandudno to Cardiff.
On the way you pass through Blaenau Ffestiniog, a town built of and on slate; Machynlleth, where Owain Glyndŵr held a Welsh parliament in 1404; and the Elan Valley, where the Victorians dammed a chain of valleys to give Birmingham its water.
It finishes on Cardiff Bay, at the Senedd, where Wales sits in parliament again.
The Cambrian Way is one of the Wales Way routes devised and promoted by Visit Wales.
- Duration
- 3 days
- Group size
- Up to 7 guests
- Vehicle
- Mercedes V-Class
Includes
- Expert bilingual local guide
- Travel in a Mercedes V-Class
- Daily pick-ups & drop offs
- Fully customisable
Excludes
- Flights, transfers and accommodation
- Food and drink
- Entry fees to attractions
- Heritage & culture
- Coast & beaches
- Mountains & lakes
Itinerary
Day 1 Through Eryri
Bodnant's gardens above the Conwy, the old bridge at Llanrwst, and Betws-y-Coed where the rivers meet. Then the road climbs through the mountains to Blaenau Ffestiniog, walled in by its own slate tips, and down into Dolgellau, a market town of dark stone under Cadair Idris.
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Eighty acres of terraced gardens with views to the Snowdonia range
Eighty acres above the River Conwy, sloping west with Snowdonia across the valley. Formal Italianate terraces and a rose garden run down into the Dell, a wooded valley of streams and glades planted with seeds and cuttings brought back by plant-hunting expeditions more than a century ago. Something is at its best in every season: daffodils and magnolias in spring, the laburnum arch in late May, summer meadows, autumn colour and frost on the terraces in winter. There are record-breaking trees among the two-hundred-year-old ones. -
A Conwy Valley market town beside the 17th-century Pont Fawr
A small market town on the River Conwy. Pont Fawr, the three-arched bridge of 1636, is attributed by tradition to Inigo Jones, and Tŷ Hwnt i'r Bont beside it is a 15th-century house, now the ivy-covered tearoom in every photograph of the town. Gwydir Castle, the Wynn family's Tudor house, is across the river. -
Victorian resort village of stone bridges and riverside woodland walks
A gem of a village and the gateway to Snowdonia, Betws-y-Coed has been a popular holiday destination since the Victorian era. Situated in a picturesque valley at the confluence of the River Conwy and River Llugwy, the village offers charming stone bridges, woodland walks, and a wonderful selection of outdoor shops and cafes. -
Slate-built town with caverns, a mountain railway and quarry heritage
Is famous for its slate quarrying history, particularly the Llechwedd and Ffestiniog quarries. In the 19th century, it became a major slate production center, significantly impacting the local economy. Key attractions include the Llechwedd Slate Caverns and the Ffestiniog Railway, which offer insight into the slate mining process and scenic views. The town features distinctive slate architecture and several museums dedicated to its industrial heritage, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Snowdonia landscapes. -
A stone-built market town, the gateway to southern Snowdonia
A historic market town with a rich history dating back to medieval times. Dolgellau features 17th-century houses, narrow streets, and the iconic stone bridge Pont y Wernddu. The architecture reflects the town's heritage and contributes to its considerable charm as a gateway to southern Snowdonia.
Day 2 The Cambrian Mountains
Machynlleth, Glyndŵr's capital, then the long, empty miles over the Cambrian Mountains to the Elan Valley, where Victorian stone dams hold back the reservoirs that still supply Birmingham. Rhayader and Builth Wells, home of the Royal Welsh Show, bring you down the Wye to Brecon and its cathedral.
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Owain Glyndŵr’s parliament town, on the Dyfi
Machynlleth is a historic market town in Powys, Mid Wales, situated near the River Dyfi and surrounded by beautiful countryside. It is known for its lively markets, independent shops, and strong connection to Welsh history. Machynlleth was once the seat of Owain Glyndŵr, the famous Welsh prince who led a rebellion against English rule in the early 15th century. Today, it is a popular base for exploring the stunning landscapes of Mid Wales. -
A valley of reservoirs and woodland, rich in wildlife and birdlife
The reservoirs stand as a remarkable achievement in Victorian engineering, addressing the pressing water needs of Birmingham while transforming the landscape into a stunning natural reserve. The project not only provided a reliable water supply for over a century but also created beautiful reservoirs that attract visitors for recreation and wildlife observation. Today, the Elan Valley is celebrated for its historical significance, breathtaking scenery, and the balance it strikes between human ingenuity and environmental preservation. -
The gateway town to the Elan Valley reservoirs
Rhayader is a historic market town in Powys, Mid Wales, located on the River Wye and surrounded by beautiful countryside. It is known as the gateway to the Elan Valley, a stunning area famous for its reservoirs, dams, and scenic landscapes. Rhayader is also popular with walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The town has a rich history and provides a great starting point for exploring the Welsh countryside. -
A Wye bridging town, home of the Royal Welsh Show
Builth Wells is a historic market town in Powys, Mid Wales, situated on the River Irfon near its meeting with the River Wye. The town is well known for its Victorian heritage and its historic connection to the spa trade. Builth Wells is also famous for hosting the Royal Welsh Show, one of the largest agricultural events in the UK. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, it is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and visitors exploring Mid Wales. -
A Usk-side market town at the northern gate of the Bannau
Brecon is a historic market town in Powys, Mid Wales, located within the beautiful Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. It is known for its impressive cathedral, historic buildings, and scenic surroundings. Brecon is a popular destination for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, with mountains, rivers, and waterfalls nearby. The town also has a rich military history and is home to the Brecon Barracks.
Day 3 The Bannau to the capital
South through Bannau Brycheiniog to Castell Coch, the fairytale castle a Victorian marquess built on medieval ruins above Cardiff. The last miles are into the capital: the Senedd and Pierhead on Cardiff Bay, the old coal docks that made the city, and the centre.
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Dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls and valleys on a scenic drive
A stunning national park in South Wales known for its dramatic mountain scenery, waterfalls, and beautiful valleys. A scenic drive through the park and Neath Valley is a memorable experience. -
Burges's fairytale 'Red Castle' of turrets and vivid painted rooms
Often referred to as the 'Red Castle', is a picturesque Gothic Revival castle located near Cardiff. Designed by architect William Burges in the late 19th century, it was built on the ruins of an earlier medieval structure. The castle is characterized by its striking red sandstone exterior, whimsical turrets, and intricate interior detailing, including beautifully crafted woodwork and vibrant murals. -
Redeveloped docklands waterfront, home to the Senedd and Pierhead
A waterfront district located in the capital city of Cardiff, Wales. Historically, this area was the site of Cardiff's docklands and maritime industries. However, in the late 20th century, the area underwent a major redevelopment. The redevelopment has created a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly district with scenic walking paths, public art, and green spaces. It has become a popular destination. -
Wales's capital city, from Roman fort to castle and waterfront
Based on the southern coast of Wales, along the Bristol Channel and River Taff estuary. Cardiff originated as a minor Roman fort before gradually growing into a major port city during the Industrial Revolution. It was officially proclaimed the capital of Wales in 1955. One of the main highlights is Cardiff Castle which dates back 2,000 years ago.
What guests say
Second time touring with John and like a fine wine - or some of the Welsh cheese he brought along for sampling - he's getting better with age, if that's even possible. Consummate professional, taking the things you want to do and see and expanding to make your experience as layered and rich as you could ever want. His knowledge and passion are both considerable and obvious. He's always looking out for new and interesting things, all the while showing maximum concern for your comfort and safety. He clearly cares about his clients and strives to give them the best time for their investment. And hands-down one of the best drivers I've ever seen!
This is one of those situations where you come in as a customer and truly leave as a friend, but I understand that may not be what people really want... when you're paying for a bespoke tour, you probably want to leave with memories of a good time more than a new buddy. Be assured in that case, John and Celticos are definitely your ticket to the Welsh experience of a lifetime. When we first toured with him two years ago, I knew nothing about Wales and came out of it with a hunger to go back, to see and hear more about this beautiful country and intriguing culture. I wrote to him with a few ideas, which he developed into an incredible itinerary covering the central region. Over three days, John delivered for us again in a big way. From UNESCO sites to incredible scenery in the national parks, charming villages, and stunning castles/gardens, Wales just makes you want to keep coming back and there's no one better to do it with than John. I recommend him once again with the highest confidence!
John did a private driving tour for two American couples. We traveled in North Wales for three days! He is knowledgeable about the country, the villages, the landscapes. We definitely would recommend him.
Frequently asked questions
- Can we change the itinerary?
Yes. Every tour we run is customised, so treat this itinerary as a starting point. Tell us what interests you and we will build the days around it.
- Can this tour be combined with other tours, or made longer or shorter?
Yes. A day tour can be built into a multi-day tour, and a multi-day tour can be shortened, extended or joined to another. Tell us how many days you have and we will plan around them.
- Are admission fees included?
No. Entry to castles, gardens and other attractions is paid on the day, where a fee applies. Many of the castles are cared for by Cadw, and we can advise on the best-value tickets when you book.
- Is food included?
No. As we tour we will suggest eating places that our guests have enjoyed.
- What should we wear and bring?
Sensible footwear for some light walking, and a rain jacket, just in case.
- How much walking is involved?
Some, and none of it strenuous: the walk from the car to a castle gate or a viewpoint. If walking is a concern, tell us and we will plan the stops accordingly.
- Where should we stay?
Somewhere central, so that touring time is not spent driving to the start. Our accommodation advice lists places our guests have used, and we are happy to suggest a base for your tour.
