The Heart of Wales

If there were a region that remains largely unknown to the wider public, yet is both close and exotic, it would undoubtedly be this small piece of wild land fiercely attached to its Celtic roots: Wales. As the smallest of the four nations making up the United Kingdom, this off-the-beaten-path destination is just a few hours by train from Paris or Brussels!

Wales, perhaps even more so than its neighbours Scotland and Ireland, is a land steeped in mysticism, where everything seems designed to make familiar reference points disappear and transport you into a thrilling, romantic imagination!

On land…

The wind-swept highlands invite contemplation with their vastness and raw beauty. Only low-lying vegetation thrives in these harsh landscapes. As you descend the slopes, the bleating of thousands of sheep gradually pulls you out of solitude. The brown hues of burnt moorland give way to the vivid green of pastures.

In the sky…

The skies mirror these vast sheep-covered lands, forming a mosaic of clouds, some darker than others (like the sheep!). Probably even more than in Brittany, you will experience all four seasons in a single day… and the accompanying rainbows!

Among the people…

As you approach the valley bottoms, the vegetation becomes increasingly lush, and impenetrable forests block the way. Nestled in these shadowy valleys, stone villages with charming names like Llanwrst, Penrhyndeudraeth, Pwllheli, and Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (yes, that’s really the name!) highlight Wales’ untamed character. While the more numerous English eventually established themselves with massive castles (Wales has the highest density of castles per km²!), the proud Welsh never lost their spirit. Welsh, the language from which Breton originates, remains the most widely spoken Celtic language in the world, and more than 700 years after English rule, many locals still speak it daily. That said, the Welsh are very welcoming, and you will have no trouble communicating in English.

By bike…

As for Wales itself, if you don’t mind the occasional shower or a few steep hills, cycling here is an absolute delight. The landscapes are wonderfully varied and strikingly beautiful. Stone villages and castles will transport you to another era. Wales also caters to lovers of the dolce vita: stunning white-sand beaches, sea swims, enchanting English gardens, and diverse cuisine await!

And while Wales may not yet have the fame of Scotland, it is actually less rainy, more affordable, less touristy, and closer than its northern neighbour. A friendly tip!

Enjoy your trip! Taith dda!

Highlights :

• Pedaling along the Llangollen Canal, with its old-world charm
• The enchanting landscapes of the high plateaus, straight out of a movie
• The small stone villages, the medieval cities, and the massive fortresses
• Colorful seaside resorts lined with beautiful sandy beaches
• An off-the-beaten-path destination just a few hours away from London
• A still very present Celtic identity, reminiscent of Ireland or Scotland