North Wales Discovery Road Trip

Wind your way through the mountainous wonders of North Wales

View from mainland Wales of the Menai Bridge, joining the Isle of Anglesey

Road Trip Overview

Immerse yourself in the grandiose scenery of ancient Britain

This road trip combines breathtaking natural sights and magnificent man-made structures, making it the perfect adventure for anyone hiring a campervan or motorhome. Start your journey in historic Denbighshire where castles, waterfalls and walks await. From there travel to Snowdonia with its mountainous terrain, sparkling lakes and plethora of outdoor activities.

Next, it's onward to the Isle of Anglesey, desired by invaders such as the Saxons and Vikings. Look out onto the Irish Sea or back at the loft peaks of Snowdonia. The well-preserved walls of Chester sit just over the border back into England and mark the final stop on your tour. Visit the Cathedral, Roman Amphitheater and local zoo, or relax and unwind with some retail therapy in the local shops and restaurants. All in all, this motorhome holiday will be an experience that you will never forget.

Distance

Total distance: 149 miles

Driving Time

Total driving time: 3 hours, 18 minutes

Length

Suggested length of road trip: 8 days

Bala Lake (Llyyn Tegid)
Chirk Castle
Hikers on Mt Snowdon

Explore the route map


Stop 1. Denbighshire

Recommended site: Gaer Hyfryd Caravan and Motorhome Club Site

Open: March to October

Address: Corwen, Denbighshire, LL21 0EW, Wales

Driving Time

Total driving time: Starting point

Overview

The longest known settled region of Wales, Denbighshire has a rich history and stunning rural landscape. This is where you will find your first stop, at the Gaer Hyfryd Caravan and Motorhome Club Site.

The site puts you in the perfect location to discover all that Denbighshire has to offer, from castles to natural wonders like the Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall. The area has been dubbed a walker’s paradise and depending on your mood you can choose between a simple stroll or a more challenging trek over the Berwyns. The town of Llangollen, known for its spectacular scenery, is close by. there is plenty to see and do in this town on the edge of the River Dee including visiting the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, also known as the “Stream in the Sky”.

Visitor view:

"This site Gaer Hyfry is in a wonderful location in a very picturesque part of the world. The site itself is beautifully clean and tidy and is overseen by the most helpful and understanding owners imaginable. I can't recommend this site highly enough."

MoongazingHare

Stop 1 Highlights

Onlooker admiring Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall in Wales

Pistyll Rhaeadr, The tallest waterfall in Wales

Arches of Pontcycsyllte Aqueduct, tallest aqueduct in Wales

The colossal Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which is the highest in the World

Ruins of Denbigh Castle

The haunting ruins of Denbigh Castle

Trees and river with views of picturesque Llangollen town

The town of Llangollen, steeped in myth and legend

Things to do when you're here

Food & Drink

Food & drink

The Corn Mill
Dee Lane, Llangollen, LL20 8PN

www.brunningandprice.co.uk
01978 869 555

Culture

Culture

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Trevor Basin Visitor Centre
Trevor Basin, Off Station Road, Trevor, Wrexham, LL20 7TY

www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk
01978 822912

Outdoor fun

Outdoor fun

White water rafting in Llangollen
Chapel Street, Llangollen, LL20 8NW

www.whitewateractive.co.uk
01978 860763

For the family

For the family

Llangollen Railway
Experience rail travel as it used to be.

llangollen-railway.co.uk
01978 860979

Stop 2. Snowdonia

Recommended site: Coed-Y-Llwyn Caravan and Motorhome Club Site

Open: March to October

Address: Gellilydan, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, LL41 4EN

Driving Time

Total driving time: 1 hour

Overview

An hour's journey from your first stopover is Coed-Y-Llwn Caravan and Motorhome Club Site, situated in Snowdonia National Park, a breathtaking mountainous region of North Wales that will dazzle visitors and provides an awe inspiring backdrop for a camping adventure.

On your journey here take the opportunity to stop off to see the magnificent Bala Lake, also known as Llyn Tegid, the largest natural body of water in Wales. There is so much to see and do from this site. The famous Mount Snowdon stands nestled in the stunning Snowdon Massif, which is just one of four mountain ranges situated in the park. Cycling, water sports, hiking and mountain walking opportunities abound with miles of tracks and beautiful shimmering lakes.

The adventurous will be spoilt for choice with activities such as inland lagoon surfing and zip lining, while more relaxed pursuits can be found in exploring the local castles, taking a trip on one of the steam railways, visiting the Italian styled village of Portmeirion or simply taking in the awe inspiring surroundings provided by nature. One castle not to miss is the magnificent Harlech Castle overlooking the Irish Sea. Discover the legend of this foreboding medieval fortress, one of the most threatening castles in Wales.

Visitor view:

"Great site for exploring this area with plenty of local attractions to see for all the family, lots of local walks, ideal for mountain biking at coed-y-brenin just 15 mins away, beach is only 20 mins away , local pubs serving good food."

Caravanner from Flintshire

Stop 2 Highlights

Tram riding along cliff faces of Mount Snowdon

Magical Mount Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales

Houses and swimming pool along coast of Portmeirion

The picturesque seaside town of Portmeirion

Bala lake reflecting sky and distant mountains

Bala lake is the largest natural body of water in Wales

Crenelated battlements of Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle has been the scene of much violent and dramatic action in its history

Things to do when you're here

Food & Drink

Food & drink

Mawddach Restaurant
Llanelltyd, Dolgellau, Gwynedd, LL40 2TA

www.mawddach.com
01341 421752

Culture

Culture

Harlech Castle
Harlech LL46 2YH

www.harlech.com
01766 780552

Outdoor fun

Outdoor fun

Porthmadog Activity & Riding Centre
Llanerch Farm. Morfa Bychan Road, Porthmadog LL49 9UR

www.porthmadog-activity-centre.co.uk
01766 512468

For the family

For the family

Zip World Slate Caverns
LL41 3NB

www.zipworld.co.uk
01248 601 444

Stop 3. Anglesey

Recommended site: Penrhos Caravan and Motorhome Club Site

Open: March to October

Address: Brynteg, Benllech, Anglesey, LL78 7JH, Wales

Driving Time

Total driving time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Overview

The Isle of Anglesey sits on the North West coast of Wales and is steeped in history. Tranquil sandy beaches and views out across the Irish Sea provide a chance to relax, reflect and unwind, whilst you can look back and see Snowdonia from the campsite.

On your journey to Anglesey navigate through the towering slate mountains to The National Slate Museum, where you'll discover the traditional craft of the quarryman. If your appetite for mountains has been whetted by the previous stop, Holyhead Mountain is a natural jewel in the local landscape. From the dramatic cliffs you can spot South Stack Lighthouse on the summit of a small island just off the coast. Beaumaris Castle is close by, as is the Snowdon Mountain Railway, a narrow gauge rack and pinion mountain railway that takes you to the highest peak in Wales. Adrenaline junkies can head over to Anglesey Circuit for a driving experience based in the most breathtaking of locations. Alternatively explore by sea with a powerboat trip along the stunning coastline of Anglesey and the Menai Strait.

Visitor view:

"Penrhos is a peaceful and friendly with good amenities and great walking and birdwatching – especially in the spring. You can walk straight from the site into lovely countryside."

Geoff and Maureen Parry

Stop 3 Highlights

Moat and castle walls around Beaumaris Castle

The moated concentric castle of Beaumaris

Snowdon's railway line carrying passengers down mountain side

Snowdon Mountain Railway carries passengers to the peak of mount Snowdon

South Stack Lighthouse upon rocky peninsula overlooking sea

The 200 year old South Stack Lighthouse

Anglesey Circuit in Wales, adjacent Irish Sea

Anglesey Circuit hosts rally cross and other motorsports events

Things to do when you're here

Food & Drink

Food & drink

The Tavern on the Bay
St David's Park, Red Wharf Bay, LL75 8RJ

01248 852751

Culture

Culture

Plas Newydd House and Gardens
Llanfairpwll, Anglesey, LL61 6DQ

01248 714795

Outdoor fun

Outdoor fun

Anglesey Circuit Driving Experiences
Ty Croes, Anglesey, Wales, LL63 5TF

www.angleseycircuit.com
01407 811 400

For the family

For the family

Seawake Anglesey Boat Trips
40 High Street, Menai Bridge, Isle of Anglesey, LL59 5EF

www.angleseyboattrips.com
01248 716335

Stop 4. Chester

Recommended site: Chester Fairoaks Caravan and Motorhome Club Site

Open: All year

Address: Rake Lane, Little Stanney, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 4HS

Overview

Just over the border into England lies the walled city of Chester and the location of Chester Fairoaks Caravan and Motorhome Club Site. There are numerous historical sites to peruse such as the 900 year old cathedral and the Roman Amphitheater, as well as restaurants and plenty of shops.

For a multifaceted entertainment experience check out the Storyhouse. There is a footpath that runs along the wall which is the most complete in Britain. Spare some time en route to discover the town of Conwy for yet another spectacular castle. Animal lovers can head to the nearby Chester Zoo for a fun family day out and boasts some 12,000 animals in its 110 acre gardens. To get acquainted with dwellers of the deep, dive over to the Blue Planet Aquarium.

If you would prefer be on the surface of the water rather than under it, take a voyage in a kayak on the River Dee.  Our Chester Fairoaks Club Site is set in a central location, ideal for exploring the city.

Visitor view:

"Had a recent 3 day visit to Chester and found this site to be greatly positioned for local restaurants and on the doorstep of Cheshire Oaks. A short walk there will also enable you to catch buses into Chester."

Morris66

Stop 4 Highlights

River, bridge and battlements of Conwy Castle

The majestic Conwy Castle dominates its surroundings

Striped tiger lying prostrate on a tree stump at Chester Zoo

See the tigers at Chester Zoo

Architectural columns and pews of Chester Cathedral interior

The hallowed halls of the 900 year old Chester Cathedral

Eel swimming amid coral and baring teeth

Face your fears at Blue Planet Aquarium and meet eels and sharks

Things to do when you're here

Food & Drink

Food & drink

Hanky Panky Pancakes
20 Commonhall Street, Chester, CH1 2BJ

www.hankypankypancakes.com
01244 319225

Culture

Culture

Story House
Hunter Street, Chester CH12AR

www.storyhouse.com
01244 409113

Outdoor fun

Outdoor fun

Chester Kayak Hire
45 City Rd, Chester CH1 3AE

www.chesterkayakhire.co.uk
01244 422007

For the family

For the family

Chester Zoo
Moston Rd, Upton-by-Chester, Upton, Chester CH2 1EU

www.chesterzoo.org
01244 380280