Luxury Wales Walk (The Secret Gem of The United Kingdom) 6D5N, Fully Guided

TWO HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 8.04km (5 miles), Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft)

Meet your trip leaders at 8:30 a.m. at the St. David's Hotel located at Havannah Street in Cardiff. Arrive dressed in your hiking clothes and bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear and anything else you may want for today's hike. (Your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations).

After meeting, we will take a scenic shuttle north into the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park, a 520-square-mile paradise park where we will find more than 250 historic structures, villages crowned with castles, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Brecon Beacons is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, explore the dramatic scenery of the breathtaking mountain ranges, or go on an adrenaline-fueled outdoor adventure. A landscape of flower-filled meadows, woodlands, and grassy hills is highlighted by rugged mountain ranges that descend to valleys, limestone caverns, and spectacular waterfalls. The Beacons National Park covers an area of 42 miles and is informally divided into various segments by picturesque roads and signposted trails. First, we stop at a favorite teahouse for our usual cup of tea, Welsh cakes, and scones. Delightfully fueled, we continue our trek on a route lined with leafy ferns to an escarpment where we are surrounded by expansive panoramas of emerald hills and pastoral pastureland.

To get the best perspective, we'll climb to the top of Fan Y Big, where our route takes us. You'll get better and better views of the tallest peak in South Wales as you ascend Fan Y Big. Soaring to the top of Fan Y Big offers panoramic views of the Brecon Beacons National Park and the surrounding valleys and farmland. It's the perfect place to stop for a sandwich and some Welsh cake. After lunch, the trail begins to drop into the valley below. Views from Fan Y Big, one of the most famous spots in South Wales, provide an incredible backdrop for photographs.

You’ll stay at Gliffaes Country House Hotel, hidden away on a rural track and located in 33-acre grounds among the foots of the Black Mountains and on the edge of the River Usk. Unwind in your ensuite rooms or at the quaint terrace boasting breathtaking views of the valley. Following a reception, gather at the hotel's intimate dining room for a dining affair using locally sourced ingredients that are seasonal and suit the Welsh landscape.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 4.82km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)
Level 3, Approx. 9.65km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)
Level 4, Approx. 16.09km (10 miles), Elevation gain: 244m (800ft)

We return to Brecon Beacons National Park after breakfast with a quick shuttle ride via the village of Bwlch. Today's hike leads us to the top of Llangorse Hill, including the largest natural lake in south Wales, Llangorse Lake. Despite its short length, the challenging but rewarding nature of the Mynydd Llangorse Walk makes it well worth the trip. From here, you'll have a clear view of Llangorse Lake, the Brecon Beacons to your south-west, the Black Mountains, and Usk Valley to your east. One of Wales' largest natural lakes, Llangorse Lake, is located in Brecon Beacons National Park, which has a historic Crannog and is a great spot for boating, strolling, and watching wildlife like otters and water voles. A portion of the hillside around Llangorse Lake has been declared as "Common Land," meaning that the animals are allowed to roam and graze there. The mountains in this area are made of red sandstone and are covered in grass and heather. Although the heights of these mountains are lower than those of the Brecon Beacons, their beauty is undeniable. There are breathtaking views to be had of the valley below, which is dotted with hamlets. You might even get a glimpse of some of the locals, such as raptors, sheep, or herds of Welsh mountain cattle that are almost completely wild.

Later, you will reach Hay-on-Wye, a tiny place on the border with England. Hay-on-Wye, dubbed as the "Town of Books" for its profusion of bookshops, Hay is also home to great writers, thinkers, artists, and musicians. Hay's location makes it a great base for outdoor experiences; embracing the River Wye and having a foot in both England and Wales; it is a mesmerizing destination for bibliophiles, trekkers, and water enthusiasts. Or you can explore Fforest Fawr woodland near Castell Coch, one of the most picturesque castles in Wales. Fforest Fawr is a mixed woodland with patches of bluebells, wood anemones, and wild garlic in the spring. From historical dramas set in Wales to family-friendly shows like Merlin and Sherlock, the woods are frequently used as a filming setting. After that, take a stroll through the lush, verdant hills and passes of Mid Wales, where expansive views await, including glistening lakes, farms, rural hamlets, and even a glimpse of a Welsh mountain pony in flight.

This afternoon, spend time wandering through the garden and the arboretum, or unwind with a drink on the terrace. This evening, we will be entertained with a concert by the Aberhonddu & District Male Choir, and then you will have the opportunity to dine at your own pace in the hotel's restaurant.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 6.43km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 244m (800ft)
Level 3, Approx. 12.87km (8 miles), Elevation gain: 457m (1500ft)
Level 4, Approx. 16.09km (10 miles), Elevation gain: 640m (2100ft)

Take a picturesque drive through the Brecon Beacons on your way to the trailhead for today's climb. Llyn y Fan Fach, one of two quiet and attractive ancient glacial lakes, can be found in a shallow valley after a gentle rise. Located on the western edge of the Black Mountain, Llyn y Fan Fach is a dammed lake that is considered one of Wales' most magnificent and breathtaking vistas. To see the neighboring Brecon Beacons in their natural state, you'll have to put in a little work along a river's edge, where the water constantly ducks and dips, creating delightful mini-cascades as you go. The second and larger Llyn y Fan Fawr lake can be found by following the glacially carved hillsides further down the valley. Lunch on the banks of the lake is followed by a hike to the top of the ridge for a breathtaking vista before returning to the lush valley below.

After exploring the Llyn y Fan Lakeland area, rest your legs as we make our way through the undulating countryside of Pembrokeshire on the way to our opulent and inviting home for the next three nights, the Grove of Narberth. You’ll stay at this serene 18th century country house hidden in the lush Narberth Hills embraced by meadows, woodland and mature gardens. Take a lovely stroll amongst its expansive gardens before settling into the evening with dinner at your own leisure at the relaxed atmosphere of the hotel's Artisan Rooms. Delight your tastebuds with a menu inspired by the best of Welsh ingredients, expect grazing boards of Welsh charcuterie, artisan cheese, Welsh lamb and beef, and Pembrokeshire landed fish.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 3, Approx. 9.65km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 122m (400ft)
Level 4, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 153m (500ft)
Level 4, Approx. 17.70km (11 miles), Elevation gain: 274.32m (900ft)

We take a shuttle today to get to the beginning of our first hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, the oldest National Trail in Wales that stretches through 186 kilometers along the most magnificent coastline in Britain. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is widely regarded as one of the greatest walking trails in the world. Along its length, hikers are treated to some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world, including steep limestone cliffs, undulating red sandstone bays, volcanic headlands, beaches, estuaries, and flooded glacial valleys. Later, make your way to Whitesands Bay Beach, one of the most well-known beaches in Pembrokeshire. Whitesands Bay Beach is known for its views of Ramsey Island, which makes it an ideal location for seabird colonies, flocks of choughs, and peregrines. The chough families feed in big flocks on the short grassland, and when the heather blooms, the area is filled with the sweet aroma of honey and is visited by bees and butterflies. You can enjoy the view of Ramsey Island and probably some porpoises below by following a path that winds gently up and down from this beach that is truly a beauty. Continue weaving between rugged rock formations with ocean panoramas, past the lifeboat station in Porthstinian Bay, and then arriving in the city of St. David's in time for a farm-to-fork meal in a gin distillery.

Following lunch, we will continue to travel along the path of Saint David, including a stop at his birthplace to take in the breathtaking coastline scenery. Spend time exploring the majestic St. David's Cathedral. You may learn about Christianity's history and its importance in today's world by visiting this museum. Relax at the hotel before traveling to the seaside town of Saundersfoot for a seaside dining affair this evening.

THREE HIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 6.43km (4 miles), Elevation gain: 92m (300ft)
Level 2, Approx. 4.82km (3 miles), Elevation gain: 305m (1000ft)
Level 2, Approx. 11.26km (7 miles), Elevation gain: 182m (600ft)

Back on the Pembrokeshire Coast, we start our hike at Freshwater East beach, following an undulating path over raggy green wildflower-lined terrain and crossing streams over stone bridges. Freshwater East Beach is a wide bay of golden sand and blue water, the perfect place to find your own space to relax and sunbathe. With the sea as our backdrop, our route offers sightings of impressive rock formations and affords us the chance to rub elbows with locals. Pick up the coastal path here in either direction for fantastic walks with awe-inspiring views. Heading east will lead you to the pretty and secluded Swanlake Bay Beach and further along to Manorbier Beach, which is overlooked by its’ historic castle. To the west, the path will lead you to Stackpole Quay Beach, a sheltered inlet with a café and walled garden, an ideal spot for lunch or an afternoon tea. Continuing further in this direction, you will eventually reach Barafundle Bay and Broadhaven South Beach.

Visit Tenby, a quirky and colorful town, after a pub meal. You'll find much to keep you entertained in Tenby's historic town center and the surrounding region, including a plethora of interesting and unique shops selling locally-produced goods, a wildlife park, a golf course, and miles of pristine beaches and the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.

This evening, gather together to toast our final night in Wales at the Fernery restaurant tucked away in the picturesque Grove of Narberth.

After taking a short shuttle ride, we arrive at the breathtaking Carew Castle, a Norman and Tudor fortification with a 23-acre mill pond. Carew is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular castles in South Wales. Its origins may be traced back to roughly the year 1100, when the Norman Gerald of Windsor constructed the structure. After exploring the ruins of the castle and the ancient mill, take a stroll along the estuary. After, we make our way back to the hotel to freshen up and say our final goodbyes before catching the shuttle to the Cardiff Airport and the heart of Cardiff, where your inspiring adventure ends.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.