North Wales is a land of bold landscapes and deep contrast, where jagged mountains rise from glacial valleys and long coastlines trace sandy bays, headlands, and fishing villages. It’s one of the UK’s most dramatic settings for walking holidays, offering everything from high mountain ridges to peaceful riverside paths. From the slopes of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) in Eryri National Park to the historic canal and riverside walks of Llangollen beside the River Dee, the transition from wild to settled is always close at hand.
Here, the pleasures of movement are as varied as the terrain itself. You might spend one day tracing a cliff-edge trail as seabirds wheel overhead, and the next wandering a quiet estuary or woodland path. Along the coast and through inland valleys, you’ll also find a strong network of independent places to stay — from small inns and seaside guesthouses to rural retreats tucked beneath the mountains.
Quiet lanes, converted railway lines, and coastal flats also give North Wales a natural appeal for scenic cycling holidays, especially around the Dee Valley, Anglesey, and the lower edges of the national park. For those looking beyond the trail, the region is equally rich in outdoor adventures — from sea kayaking and wild swimming to scrambling, climbing, and mountain exploration.
The adventure heart of North Wales and home to Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). A vast network of mountain, valley, and lakeside trails spreads across the park. Tackle the Snowdon Horseshoe for high-level drama, or seek quieter routes through the Carneddau and Rhinogydd ranges.
A wild and winding section of the Wales Coast Path, passing hidden coves, sweeping sandy bays, and small fishing villages. Ideal for multi-day coastal walking, wildlife watching, and sheltered sea paddling along the peninsula’s quieter edges.
A full island circuit of clifftop paths, sandy beaches, and open sea views back toward Snowdonia’s peaks. Watch for seals, seabirds, and the remains of shipwrecks along one of Wales’ most varied coastal trails.
North Wales is a place where effort is rewarded with scale, space, and story — where every ridge, shoreline, and valley feels shaped by both geology and legend.
You can climb mountains, follow coastal and upland trails, scramble along ridges, kayak beneath sea cliffs, explore castles, and spot wildlife from choughs to seals.
Highlights include the Snowdon Horseshoe, Cwm Idwal Circuit, Llŷn Peninsula Coast Path, the North Wales Path, and the Offa’s Dyke Path (northern section).
Yes. It’s one of the UK’s top adventure regions, offering outstanding opportunities for walking, climbing, scrambling, wild swimming, kayaking, mountain biking, and more.
Late spring to early autumn offers the best balance of clear skies, longer daylight, and open mountain routes. Winter is quieter and dramatic but better suited to experienced walkers.
Yes. The region supports a wide range of self-guided and guided walking holidays, from short mountain breaks to multi-day coast-to-coast itineraries.
