Regions

North Wales was recently voted fourth-best region in the world by the Lonely Planet guide, and is the UK's only destination to appear on this privileged list. Our rugged scenery was already world famous, but now there are many new adventure attractions, such as Surf Snowdonia – an inland surfing lake, Zip World, with the world's fastest and longest zip wires, and Bounce Below – a network of underground trampolines in a former slate mine.

North Wales can be split into five diverse regions: Snowdonia, Anglesey, the Llŷn Peninsula, the North Wales Coast and North East Wales.

We reckon you could spend a lifetime exploring all North Wales has to offer, but let's start with a quick look at each area – whichever you decide to visit, you're guaranteed a world-class experience.

Snowdonia

Snowdonia National Park is a land of mist-shrouded mountains, tranquil lakes and tiny, tinkling streams. Millions of visitors arrive here each year to enjoy walking, cycling, extreme sports and serene views, and the valleys echo to the toot of steam trains, of which there are several routes, including the famous Snowdon Mountain Railway.

Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, is called 'the busiest mountain in the world', but there are dozens of other peaks to conquer, where you may not see another person all day. With over 200 activity providers, hundreds of hotels and restaurants, visit for a day trip or a longer stay. And don't forget to breathe that mountain air – big deep lungfuls – it's a splendid aid to relaxation.

The Isle of Anglesey

Anglesey is the largest island in Wales and seventh-largest in the British Isles. Most of the 125-mile coastline is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – it really is 'perfection all round.'

Explore ancient Beaumaris Castle, walk the Anglesey Coastal Path, and take the kids to one of the many awesome attractions, like Pili Palas, Foel Farm and South Stack Lighthouse. There are six Blue Flag beaches on the island – where will you pitch your deckchair?

Anglesey is known for its sunny microclimate, and Holy Island once held the sunshine record of Great Britain. Be sure to pack sunscreen, camera and walking boots – Anglesey is one big outdoor adventure.

The Llŷn Peninsula

An elegant 'arm' of mountains tailing into the sea, much of the peninsula is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Dotted with postcard towns, villages and beaches such as Criccieth, Abersoch and Aberdaron, it's the place to experience the North Wales coast at its most stunning. At the tip of the peninsula is Bardsey Island – a nature reserve and sacred site of Christian pilgrimage. Visiting three times was considered as holy as a journey to Rome.

It's an invigorating destination for a cycling, water sports or walking holiday – whether you choose to hike the entire coastal path or a shorter, circular route.

North Wales Coast

The seaside towns of North Wales include Llandudno, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay and Prestatyn. They each offer completely different experiences for the tourist-about-town, and are all set against the mountains of Snowdonia, which adds to the air of magic. North Wales is on the up and up – while it's still the place for nostalgic family outings and candyfloss, it now has many more sophisticated offerings, especially local cuisine, arts and crafts.

Highlights include Llandudno, the 'Queen of Resorts,' with its immaculate Victorian waterfront, the pier and Britain's oldest Punch and Judy show, ran by the Codman family for 150 years.

Colwyn Bay is home of the Welsh Mountain Zoo, and Rhyl is undergoing an extensive amount of regeneration, with BMX track, art installations and Seaquarium.

Orientate yourself with a road trip first – it's spectacular scenery the whole way, and there's always an incredible viewpoint nearby to enjoy your fish and chips.

North East Wales

Beaches, Iron Age forts, castles and a unique cultural scene – North East Wales is an intensely fascinating destination for a holiday or day trip. Explore the Clwydian Range – Wales' newest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's a stunning region of  rolling hills and moorland, dotted with historic towns.

Must-see attractions include Wepre Country Park, Ruthin Gaol and Wrexham Museum.

One of the most famous attractions is The Stream in the Sky – the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. A World Heritage Site, this engineering marvel crosses the River Dee and is over thirty metres high.
Offa's Dyke begins in Prestatyn, and is a 177-mile walking trail spanning the Welsh/English border.

Getting to the eastern part of North Wales is a breeze – it's less than two hours away from Liverpool, Manchester and Birmingham, with great rail and road links.