Top 5 Wales
Snowdonia
The highest mountains in Wales rise proudly from the landscape, with jagged peaks and stunning views on a clear day. Top of them all is Snowdon. Its Welsh name is Yr Wyddfa (the tomb) as legend says King Arthur slew a giant here. These days it’s great for a stiff mountain hike, but it needn’t kill you – there’s also a railway to the summit. >> Find out more
(www.eryri-npa.co.uk/english/index.php)
Pembrokeshire Coast
At the southwestern tip of Wales, this dramatic wave-licked, cliff-lined coast is a protected national park. There are sandy bays too so the area’s ideal for hiking, surfing and kayaking. You can also rock-climb or swim, or combine the two with a spot of coasteering – the local adrenaline-pumping speciality. >> Find out more
(www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk)
Gower Peninsular
A short hop from Swansea, but a world apart, the Gower has vast sandy beaches, grassy hills, quiet villages and prehistoric sites. Get mystical, surf your heart out, stroll for miles along the coast, or just sit in the sun with a good book and an ice-cream.
Brecon Beacons
Rolling whale-back ridges, high peaks, steep valleys, waterfalls, lakes and rivers. Wild enough for army training, easy enough to reach for hiking, mountain-biking, horse-trekking, or just enjoying good food and beer in a cosy village pub. >> Find out more (www.breconbeacons.org/)
Mid-Wales
A massive area, frequently overlooked – perfect if you want solitude or a taste of life beyond the tourist trail. Mountainous countryside, verdant farmland, ruined castles and charming country towns – including wacky Llanwrtyd Wells, home of the World Bog Snorkelling Championship.
If you like that, try...
Isle of Anglesey - If cloud looms over Snowdonia, escape here for gentle green slopes, dramatic sea-cliffs, prehistoric sites, and a better chance of sunshine.
Tintern Abbey - These stunning ruins provided inspiration for Wordsworth’s verse and Turner’s canvas; you’ll be awe-inspired.
The Big Pit - Go deep underground at this dramatic homage to Wales’ mining heritage. >> Find out more
(www.nmgw.ac.uk/bigpit)