Wales is full of bustling seaside resorts and fun attractions for the entire family, but what if you just want to escape into nature and avoid the most touristy places?
Once again, this unique country won’t disappoint you.
Here are some peaceful rural areas and smaller villages that you can use as a base for unforgettable walks, hikes, or visits to local landmarks.
With its old bridge and charming stone-and-slate houses, Beddgelert is considered one of the most picturesque villages in Wales.
You can discover its local legends and association with the folk tale of Gelert, the faithful hound, as well as visit its grave.
Because it’s surrounded by forests and nature, Beddgelert is the perfect starting point for several walks, including that to Aberglaslyn Pass, a charming narrow gorge, and Dinas Emrys, a wooded hillock where a red dragon is still said to live.
You can also visit the Sygun Copper Mine, dating back to the Victorian era.
Just outside the Brecon Beacon, Llandeilo is a strategic village from which you can begin a variety of hikes and visits to nearby monuments.
We especially recommend discovering Llandyfeisant Church, a small stone building with a Medieval background, and the skeletal remains of Talley Abbey, founded in the 12th century.
Carreg Cennen Castle is also a must: its dramatic ruins tower from the top of a rocky outcrop that overlooks the river.
As for hikes, head to Garn Goch, a hill on the Brecon Beacon that used to be a major settlement site during the Iron Age.
Covering over 600 hectares of both upland and woodland, this reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers and anyone looking to plunge themselves into nature.
You’ll find an alder and oak forest that’s also full of picturesque bluebells in springtime, babbling rivers, moors, and wildflowers.
Follow the circular Dinas Trail to reach Twm Sion Cati’s cave, the legendary hiding place of a folklore figure considered the Welsh Robin Hood.
This small village is full of history, from its stone pubs to the evocative ruins of Tintern Abbey, dating all the way back to the 12th century.
The rural landscapes all around it are even more breathtaking: low hills, pine woods, and tranquil farmlands.
And have your camera ready when you get to the Devil’s Pulpit, a limestone rock viewpoint right above the River Wye.
You’d never know that you’re so close to Cardiff when you head to this quiet village!
Visiting St. Fagans is like travelling back in time. Amongst the stops that you must absolutely add to your itinerary is St. Fagans Castle, an Elizabethan manor with impressive grounds, fountains, a rosary, and an Italian Garden. It even includes the renowned St. Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air section with a tannery, mills, a farm, and a chapel.
The surroundings of this village are popular amongst hikers thanks to the stunning countryside. Be sure to follow the Ely Trail along the river, too.
While the island of Anglesey is undeniably one of the most popular tourist destinations in Wales, it also includes some more secluded and rural areas.
The village of Aberffraw, located right by the river, is one of them. As well as being only a short drive from the beach, it’s known for the Aberffraw Heritage Walk, a 6.3-mile loop peppered with a variety of scenic views, from maritime landscapes to churches.
And why not pop to the boutique craft cidery of Jaspels, whilst you’re there?
The birthplace of Lawrence of Arabia, Tremadog is a small village in Gwynedd, right on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park.
This obviously makes it an ideal spot to avoid busy touristy locations while still being able to head to this mountainous area whenever you want.
You should also make the most of the Coed Tremadog National Nature Reserve, with its volcanic cliffs, mossy woodlands, and a lake.
Instead of trying to cram too many places into a short holiday, how about being able to return to a charming rural part of Wales as often as you wish?
When you invest in a holiday lodge, you get a home away from home that you can also use as a base for many more days out in different parts of the country.
At Conwy Lodge Park, you’ll be plunged into a tranquil setting right by the river estuary, full of trees, greenery, and relaxing views.
At the same time, you’re only a short drive from the historical and bustling town of Conwy as well as other popular destinations, so you’re basically getting the best of both worlds.
Browse our range of luxury lodges, or get in touch to arrange a viewing.