10 reasons to go to Wales, besides rugby

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Why should you go to Wales?

Did you know? Rugby or ‘rugger ‘as it is called, originated in Wales, where it has now reached the status of a quasi-religion. It should be remembered though, that there are many other reasons why you should visit Wales besides wanting to watch a rugby match. Here are ten to whet your appetite:

1. Visit mysterious ancient sites shrouded in myth and legend – the court of King Arthur, the prehistoric resting place of Welsh chieftains, the Isle of 20,0000 Saints, the holy spring with magical healing powers or the hidden cave of Twm Sion Cati, the Welsh Robin Hood.
2. Count all the castles. There are over 400, ranging from world-class heritage sites at mighty Conwy and Caernarfon (where Prince Charles was invested as Prince of Wales in 1969) to atmospheric ruins deep in the mountains.
3. Appreciate the cultural difference. Wales is a Celtic country with its own language and heritage. Visit an eisteddfod held throughout the country in the summer months.
4. Take a narrow gauge train ride to the summit of Snowdon, the highest of all the mountains in England and Wales. This rocky pinnacle used as a training ground by the team that first conquered Mount Everest gives its name to the magnificent Snowdonia National Park.
5. Experience the new spirit of Wales. It’s expressed in Cardiff Bay’s reborn waterfront, at the futuristic National Botanic Garden of Wales and in the work of singers, artists and actors like the Manic Street Preachers, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Ioan Gruffudd.
6. Enjoy festivals and events ranging from one of the world’s leading literary festivals to fun local gatherings, agricultural shows to jazz in the streets, storytelling weekends to folk festivals.
7. Keep active. Ride a pony to the top of the hill or pedal down on a mountain bike. Go walking in the woods or on long-distance footpaths. Fish for salmon and trout, play golf in superb surroundings or take to the water on a canoe, sailboard or dinghy.
8. Explore some of Britain’s greenest, most peaceful countryside. Wales has hundreds of sites specially protected for their nature and wildlife.
9. Swim with the dolphins and seals in the clear waters of Cardigan Bay. Go island-hopping and bird watching in Pembrokeshire or relax on the North Wales coast.
10. Finally, prepare yourself for a  warm welcome. People are genuinely friendly and naturally hospitable and they like to talk, as you’ll discover when you enjoy good drink and good conversation in a local inn.

Before you start planning your trip to Wales, talk to your local, personal travel manager.

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