Snowdonia, Castles, and Welsh Heritage Tour
We'll meet at Llandudno Railway Station, directly outside at the red bus stop on Augusta Street. We leave promptly at 8:30, so please arrive early.
After our introduction and safety briefing, we will hop onto our minibus and drive around Great Orme's one-way road, with its spectacular mountain drop-off into the sea. This route showcases limestone cliffs, caves, birdlife, wild goats, and often dolphins and seals, as well as views towards the Snowdonia mountains.
We will then head to the old castle town of Conwy. Here, you can tour the ancient castle or walk the castle walls of the ancient village, stroll along the Conwy estuary, visit the local marina for refreshments and lunch, and see the world's first suspension bridge, built in 1819. (Additional fee for main castle entry.)
A wonderful gem set upon the bank of the estuary and forming part of the castle walls is Great Britain's smallest house. With your arms outstretched, you can touch either side. Unbelievably, a 6'3" local fisherman lived in this tiny house with his partner for many years. It is always a great photo opportunity. (Additional fee to enter inside.)
View the guarding Welsh Dragon of Snowdonia, hidden in woodland and watching over the land for invaders. (Limited parking - if no parking space is available, we will have to bypass this stop.)
Visit the spectacular route of Nant Ffrancon Pass, the old Roman road, carved out during the last Ice Age. Lake Ogwen and its dramatic setting lie beside Tryfan mountain. Along our route, including Pen-y-Pass, we will see many great lakes, stunning scenery, and mountain views deep in the heart of some of Snowdonia's finest locations.
A spectacular 360-degree valley is set next to the lake. While you stand in awe, we will tell stories of a historic find relating to King Arthur and his sword, Excalibur, at this lakeside setting.
Stop at Snowdonia's viewpoint, known as one of the UK's most spectacular views. This 360-degree panoramic view of the Snowdonia horseshoe, valley, and lakes, together with the gliders overhead, makes it a photographer's dream.
The pass at its highest point is the location of towering hills and the foothills of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), dramatically falling into the valley below, while winding roads meander and skirt their way through the craggy cliffs.
Here, you will step into the past and discover an industry and way of life that has chiselled itself into the very being of this country. Imagine the quarrymen and engineers have just put down their tools and left the courtyard for home - that is what you will witness here. There is a variety of talks and demonstrations to enjoy, giving you real insight into the hardships of past quarry life.
Occupying a lofty and spectacular spot overlooking the waters of Llyn Padarn, native-built Dolbadarn Castle was once a vital link in the defences of the ancient kingdom of Gwynedd. It was constructed by Llywelyn the Great in the late 12th century.
Take a walk around this World Heritage Site. After all these years, Caernarfon's immense strength remains undimmed - a brute of a fortress. History comes alive at Caernarfon in so many ways: along the lofty walls, on walks beneath the twin-towered gatehouse, through the town's narrow and colourful streets, and along the stylishly redeveloped waterfront of the Menai. (Additional fee to enter the main castle.)
Enjoy the return scenic drive along the North Wales coast, hugging the coastline and taking in its lovely beaches and mountainous shores.
