From the uninterrupted and serene coastal landscapes of Carmarthen, to the more rugged scenery of Snowdonia, we have picked six of the most scenic hikes in Wales. And to make your visit even more special we have selected some idyllic hotels at which to relax and unwind after a long walk.
Carmarthen coastal walk through Dylan Thomas' boathouse
Once home to legendary Welsh writer Dylan Thomas, Laugharne offers a coastal walk that allows you to follow in the footsteps of one of the world's most renowned poets. The walk, which Thomas refers to in his work 'Poem in October', is approximately two miles long and follows a steady uphill climb. In this small, sleepy town, hikers will pass Thomas' writing shed and boathouse, where he once lived and worked.
The boathouse overlooks the beautiful Taf estuary, a landscape steeped in history. This historic atmosphere is just as prevalent in the Corran Resort & Spa Resort & Spa, which boasts an original building dating back to 16th century.
Dolbadarn Castle
You don't need to climb Snowdon to enjoy the incredible views in this National Park. Situated in a more northern location is the scenic walk through Dolbadarn Castle, between Caernarfon and Snowdonia. This location follows numerous paths ranging from 2-7km, allowing you to take in the views of the mountainous landscape and lakes, with the legendary Snowdon looming in the distance.
The Ty'n Rhos is the perfect hotel to complement your trip. Set on a lush plain between Snowdonia and the Isle of Anglesey, this hotel allows you to enjoy the views even after you've taken your walking boots off.
Aberaeron to New Quay
The coast path from Aberaeron to New Quay is fairly straightforward. Depending on your exact route, the distance of your walk can range from 2km to 7.5km, but each route follows a moderately easy footpath.
The route allows walkers to explore the various beaches, valleys and hidden waterfalls between the coastal towns. The Georgian waterfronts of these towns are just the beginning of what makes the views of this walk so stunning. Between them stretches thick woodland, fields of wildflowers and uninterrupted coastal landscapes.
Caemorgan Mansion is the ideal boutique hotel, just a few minutes from Cardigan. Being Cardigan's only five star guesthouse, a stay at Caemorgan is sure to make your visit all the more special, with a fine dining restaurant and extensive wine cellar.
Lake Vyrnwy
Sitting on the outskirts of The Snowdonia National Park, Lake Vyrnwy is unspoilt and remote. The area has a network of footpaths, each with an assigned colour, from yellow, which is one mile long, to purple, which is five miles long.
Offering breathtaking views, the reservoir's vista contrasts with the gothic architecture of a large dam and an iconic 'fairytale' tower.
A stay at Lake Vyrnwy Hotel and Spa will allow visitors to relax in the countryside. This characterful country house has balconies offering spectacular views of the lake and its architecture, and even has a luxurious spa to help you unwind after a long day's walk.
Pen y Fan
It goes without saying that a hike up iconic Pen y Fan affords visitors some of the best views in Wales. With an 886m summit, the mountain is the highest peak in southern Britain. Offering views across almost the entire Brecon Beacons National Park, the walk is very popular with both experienced and novice hikers. Starting from Storey Arms on the A470, walkers can easily follow a path that ascends until the views really open out. This route will take between two and four hours and the total distance for the ascent and descent is about four miles.
With the chance to relax in its Jacuzzi, sauna and heated pool, Peterstone Court Hotel and Spa is the perfect hotel in which to wind down after your climb. This hotel offers the ultimate relaxing experience, accompanied by the stunning views of Pen Y Fan and neighboring mountain, Cribyn.
Rhossili Beach
Once named best beach in UK and placed within the top ten beaches in the world in a survey by TripAdvisor, Rhossili beach is guaranteed to provide walkers with magnificent views.
A popular walk crosses over the top of Rhossili Down, reaches Hillend and finishes on the beach, offering uninterrupted views in every direction. This walk will never fail to take your breath away; on a clear day it's possible to see Swansea in one direction and Devon in the other.
The Fairyhill Hotel Hotel is a contemporary guesthouse with an award-winning restaurant. Also situated in the Gower, this hotel is the perfect escape with your comfort in mind.
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