Private North West Wales Portmerion and Castles

Wales , United Kingdom

Private North West Wales Portmerion and Castles

Active

(2 reviews)

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Travel through time from the Castles of the 13th century to he 20th century creation of Portmerion Village. We will travel through the majestic mountains of Snowdonia while your guide will provide the traveler with a sense of place, a connection with the past and present, an understanding of Wales, and a unique insight into the Welsh, the Welsh language, and Welsh culture. A land of beauty, myths and legends, druids, warriors and wars, singers, poets, and, of course, castles.

On this trail, you will be accompanied by a local Welsh-speaking qualified guide who will explain the meanings of what would otherwise be only words, expose the traveler to Welsh, the ancient language of the Britons, and help you understand on this journey that the Welsh nation is still here. "Yma o Hyd"

Available options

PORTMEIRION AND CASTLES - Tour

TAXI OR PHV<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Admission to Portmeirion

Detailed itinerary

Traveling some 25 minutes from Holyhead to Phot stop of the Menai Bridge, built in 1826, the very first suspension design in the world and one of the most beautiful spanning the Menai Straits, the stretch of turbulent sea that separates Anglesey from the mainland, Also the Britannia Bridge, originally a railway bridge built by Robert Stevenson in 1850. Panoramic view of the Snowdonia Mountain range on a clear day. 25-minute return to Holyhead

Stop 2

A 20-minute journey and a stop at the Royal town of Caernarfon, the UNESCO World Heritage location of King Edward I of England's 13th-century castle and walled town. You will be treated to a guided tour around the outside of the castle and town walls.

A journey of 20 minutes from caernarfon is a real medieval Welsh castle. Dolbadarn castle stands sentinel in the center of Llanberis Pass, a craggy rock between two glacial ribbon lakes surrounded by the UNESCO Slate Industry of North Wales. Built by Prince Llewelyn ap Iorwerth in the early 13th century, it is a copy of Norman architecture and the hiding place of Dafydd, Prince of Wales, in the 13th century.

A 40-minute journey through the mountains of Snowdonia to Portmerion village, the lifelong masterpiece of Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams Ellis. An Italian Cinca Terra Village based in Portofino in the Heat of North Wales. Portmeirion village and gardens is one of Wales' major visitor locations, attracting over 200,000 visitors every year. Portmerion has been the inspiration for literature, music, and drama. The site of the iconic 1960s Prisoner TV series is a favorite haunt of celebrities' such as George Bernard Shaw, H. G. Wells, and the Beatles. Wander about this amazing location and enjoy excellent food and drink at numerous outlets, and maybe visit the Portmerion Hotel for afternoon tea (additional booking essential for afternoon tea and subject to availability).

After a short 20-minute drive, we can relax on the shores of the Irish Sea and imagine a time centuries ago when medieval Welsh and English knights fought over the medieval castle here at Cricceth. Today we may engage in a battle to acquire the local delicious Cadwaladers Ice Cream or just have local beer on the promenade. before making the 50-minute return journey back to Holyhead port.

What's not included

Coffee and/or Tea

Lunch

Criccieth

Caernarfon Castle

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The pick-up location will determine the order of the itinerary. Drop-off will be at the start, unless otherwise agreed.

Children must be able to occupy normal seatbelt seats safely. No child seats are provided.

The tour involves 100 miles (170km) of intermittent travel between attractions, totaling around 2 hours of travel time in an SUV A/C type vehicle.

About Wales

Wales, known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a country in the United Kingdom that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical sites. From the rugged coastlines to the majestic castles, Wales is a destination that captivates travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Top Attractions

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia is a breathtaking national park known for its dramatic mountains, including Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. It offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and climbing to zip-lining and mountain biking.

Nature Full day or overnight Free to enter, activities vary in cost

Cardiff Castle

Cardiff Castle is a magnificent medieval castle in the heart of the Welsh capital. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Wales' rich history, with Roman ruins, Victorian grandeur, and stunning architecture.

Historical 2-3 hours £16-£24 for adults, discounts available

Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is a stunning medieval fortress with a rich history. It was built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical 2-3 hours £9-£12 for adults, discounts available

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is known for its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and diverse wildlife. It offers a range of outdoor activities, from coastal walks and boat trips to wildlife watching and water sports.

Nature Full day or overnight Free to enter, activities vary in cost

Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle is a magnificent medieval fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by Edward I and is known for its impressive architecture and rich history.

Historical 2-3 hours £12-£15 for adults, discounts available

Must-Try Local Dishes

Welsh Rarebit

A savory dish made with a cheese-based sauce served over toasted bread, often flavored with mustard, ale, and Worcestershire sauce.

Dish Contains dairy and gluten

Cawl

A traditional Welsh stew made with lamb, leeks, potatoes, and other vegetables. It is often served with crusty bread.

Soup Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Welsh Cakes

Small, round cakes made with flour, butter, eggs, and dried fruits, cooked on a griddle. They are similar to pancakes but denser and sweeter.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Bara Brith

A traditional Welsh fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruits and spices. It is often served with butter or cheese.

Bread Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking in Snowdonia Zip-lining at Zip World Climbing in Brecon Beacons Beachcombing in Tenby Picnicking in Cardiff's parks Spa treatments in luxury hotels Visiting castles and historic sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside. This is also the peak tourist season, with festivals and events in full swing.

15°C to 20°C 59°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Welsh
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

British Pound (GBP)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or BST (UTC+1) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Wales is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Cardiff Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from Cardiff city center
Bristol Airport • 70 km (43 miles) from Cardiff

By train

Cardiff Central, Swansea

By bus

Cardiff Bus Station, Swansea Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are a convenient and scenic way to travel around Wales, with frequent services and comfortable seating.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cardiff City Centre Swansea City Centre Conwy Llandudno

Day trips

Caerphilly Castle

20 km (12 miles) from Cardiff • Half day

Caerphilly Castle is one of the largest and most impressive castles in Wales. It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval history with its grand towers, moat, and drawbridge.

Brecon Beacons National Park

80 km (50 miles) from Cardiff • Full day

Brecon Beacons National Park is known for its stunning landscapes, including waterfalls, caves, and panoramic views. It offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and climbing to horse riding and stargazing.

Tenby

120 km (75 miles) from Cardiff • Full day

Tenby is a charming seaside town known for its colorful houses, sandy beaches, and historic castle. It offers a range of activities, from beachcombing and water sports to exploring the town's rich history.

Festivals

National Eisteddfod • August (dates vary) Hay Festival • May/June (dates vary) Green Man Festival • August (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit castles and historic sites early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the countryside by foot or bike to discover hidden gems and scenic routes
Try local dishes and ask for recommendations from locals and chefs
Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season and for special events