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North Wales is blessed with some truly outstanding scenery, from the mountains of Snowdonia to the dramatic seascapes of Llandudno and Anglesey.
This five-day trip is a fantastic way to take in these landscapes as you travel aboard two heritage railways and visit historic buildings with beautiful gardens.
The Snowdon Mountain Railway offers panoramic views over Snowdonia National Park and has been described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. You'll ride up to Clogwyn, three-quarters of the way to the summit of Snowdon, where you'll take in awe-inspiring vistas. You'll also ride the lovely Welsh Highland Railway, which runs from Caernarfon through the foothills of Snowdon before steaming through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass.
There's the chance to explore some of Wales's finest gardens and one of their historic castles, including a trip to the mysterious Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens, which were an overgrown, abandoned wilderness until 25 years ago. You'll also see the glorious Bodnant Garden, with its five Italianate terraces, wildflower meadows, and riverside gardens, and Bodrhyddan Hall, one of the few remaining family-owned stately homes in Wales.
The ancient Gwydir Castle is another highlight of the itinerary. This atmospheric castle is one of the finest Tudor homes in Wales, and you'll wander through 500 years of history on a guided tour to discover its secrets.
Your base for this trip is Llandudno Bay Hotel, a four-star hotel just a stone's throw from the beach and overlooking the picturesque promenade. You can relax in the hotel's bar between excursions and enjoy a delicious full Welsh breakfast each morning.
Room upgrades available at a supplement.
Also included: Four dinners and breakfasts at the hotel, coach transfers for excursions, services of an experienced tour manager.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead-in category room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £100. Deposit £150 per person. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Shearings Travel Limited.
Today you'll arrive at the Llandudno Bay Hotel, where you'll meet your tour manager and enjoy a relaxing evening.
This morning you'll explore Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens. Described as one of North Wales's best-kept secrets, these mysterious gardens are found at the side of the Menai Strait on the Isle of Anglesey. After being bought by a former dairy farmer in 1996, the gardens have undergone a dramatic transformation from derelict to delightful.
On arrival, you'll have a short talk over tea and coffee before heading off on a guided tour of the gardens. You'll have a light lunch here before visiting the village of Llanberis on the southern bank of Lake Padarn at the foot of Mount Snowdon.
Here, you'll board the Snowdon Mountain Railway for a return journey to Clogwyn, where you'll enjoy fantastic views across the valley. Later this afternoon, you'll return to the hotel for dinner.
You'll start your day with a visit to Gwydir Castle, one of the most important Tudor houses in Wales. New owners took over the castle in 1994 when it desperately needed restoring. They began the mammoth task of restoring the house and garden to their former glory whilst managing to retain Gwydir's timeless atmosphere.
A guided tour of the castle will take you back through over 500 years of rich history, telling you its stories and secrets and immersing you in Tudor history.
After the tour, you'll head to the delightful riverside village of Beddgelert, where there's time to stroll around the village before boarding the Welsh Highland Railway. Relax as the train meanders along the line towards the coast and the medieval Caernarfon Castle.
Once you disembark at Caernarfon station, you'll transfer back to the hotel for dinner.
This morning you'll visit Bodnant Gardens, where you'll explore at your own pace.
Take time to stroll around these gorgeous National Trust gardens, with their five Italianate terraces, wildflower meadows, woodland, and riverside gardens.
Next, you'll head to Bodrhyddan Hall, one of the few remaining family-owned stately homes in Wales. You'll enjoy a guided tour, which gives great insight into this beautiful family home.
After the tour of the house, you'll have a break for coffee and cake before exploring the tranquil gardens, where you'll find a formal parterre, cascading lawns, and a Japanese walk of life.
After breakfast, you're free to check out of the hotel and depart at leisure. You might want to make your way up the Great Orme in Llandudno or visit the neighbouring town of Conwy before heading home.
The four-star Llandudno Bay Hotel is a stone’s throw from the beach and overlooks the town’s picturesque promenade. Conwy and Snowdonia National Park are only a 15-minute drive away. The hotel has a modern interior, and all bedrooms have full ensuite bathrooms, tea and coffee facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Although there is no car park on site, there is plenty of roadside parking on the promenade at the front of the hotel.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead-in category room, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £100. Deposit £150 per person. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of Shearings Travel Limited.