Think you know Wales? What if we told you the country's best bits are hiding in plain sight? Read on to discover the castles, valleys, lakes and areas which many tourists might not be familiar with, but which can offer the richest travel experiences.
Stray from the beaten path and you'll not only avoid the crowds, but you'll lighten the footprint at key sites – and see Wales in a wonderfully new way.
Enjoy exploring Wales,
The Rough Guides team
This is what Wales feels like (in 30 seconds):
Go your own way: 8 ways to explore under-the-radar Wales
The Point of Ayr Lighthouse sits on gorgeous Talacre Beach with its miles of golden sand backed by dunes. Built in 1776, this is Wales's oldest lighthouse. It's said to be haunted – so keep an eye out for The Keeper (gulp).
This glorious National Trail runs for 135 miles in an extended loop through Mid Wales, taking you through breathtaking countryside and charming market towns. Enjoy the 9-day route over a series of day trips or weekends.
This inter-tidal zone of saltmarshes, mudflats and sands – revealed at low tide along the northern coastline of the Severn Estuary – is fun to explore whether you're a cyclist, walker, bird watcher, photographer or simply enjoying a day out with the kids.
Bala Lake, or Llyn Tegid, is the largest natural lake in Wales. It's home to rare 'gwyniad' fish - trapped in the lake some 10,000 years ago. It's also a perfect spot for fishing, watersports and riding the Bala Lake Railway through Snowdonia National Park.
This incredible path stretches for 140 miles, with much of the coastline designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). With countless places to explore en route, the path also offers endless outdoor fun: coasteering, sea kayaking, surfing…to name just a few.
Few castles in Europe can boast a more spectacular location than Carreg Cennen. The climb is well worth the 360-degree views across the Black Mountains and national park. Don't forget to explore the maze of dungeons below the castle.
The perfect sustainable stay for those wanting to detour from the tourist trail, get back to nature and learn new skills, such as foraging. The stunning 40-acre site is set in the foothills of The Cambrian Mountains and is an International Dark Sky reserve, which means it's one of the world's best stargazing spots.
Here, industrial landscapes and wastelands have been repurposed to provide thrilling adventure experiences. Try the world's fastest zip-line at Zip World Tower, or the 40 all-weather trails at BikePark Wales. For a gentler experience head to Dare Valley Country Park, for excellent walking trails and birdwatching.
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