Portmeirion and the Great Little Trains of North Wales

After our local pick ups we head towards North Wales with suitable stops en route. We make a stop en route at beautiful Shrewsbury, embraced by a loop on the River Severn, Shrewsbury is a market town that wins people over with its Tudor houses, Medieval castle and idyllic riverside park. The watery barrier of the Severn has helped Shrewsbury hang onto more than 600 historic buildings, as well as its “Shuts”, which are sequestered little passageways. Charles Darwin was born in Shrewsbury and you can see the very church in which he was baptised. We arrive at our hotel in Llandudno with time to relax before our evening meal.

We travel to Caernarfon, a charming town with a thriving harbour located on the eastern shore of the Menai Straits. The main landmark of Caernarfon is the mighty castle ordered by Edward I in the 13th century which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon we board the Welsh Highland Railway and enjoy a picturesque trip to the quaint village of Beddgelert, admiring the awe-inspiring scenery of the Snowdonia National Park on the way. Stunning coastlines, ancient woodlands, towering mountains, sparkling rivers and historic castles create an enchanting and memorable journey.

Today we explore stunning Portmeirion. Architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis designed and built the Italianate village of Portmeirion after being inspired by visits to the Mediterranean. Its unique atmosphere has seen it featured on camera many times, most famously in the 1960s TV series “The Prisoner”. Enjoy browsing the cluster of historic cottages and iconic architecture, admire the glorious views, and indulge in ice-cream in the authentic Italian-style gelateria during our time here. We then travel to the harbour town of Porthmadog to catch the Ffestiniog Railway to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau. The train climbs over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures, magnificent forests, lakes and waterfalls.

Today we offer an Optional Excursion to beautiful Llangollen. Our optional excursion takes us to the banks of the River Dee and the picturesque little town of Llangollen. Enjoy a stroll along the Victorian Promenade, which lines the banks of the river, visit the quirky boutiques and independent shops, or stand on top of the bridge and spend a few moments watching the water flowing beneath you. Castell Dinas Bran perched on top of the hill also provides stunning vistas overlooking the town. OPTIONAL EXCURSION £20

Today we start our journey home with suitable comfort stops en route, including time to purchase lunch if required, arriving home early evening.

The Grand Hotel Llandudno is a magnificent Victorian building and a prominent feature of the wonderfully conserved and famous Llandudno North Shore Promenade. Nestled at the foot of the Great Orme, and offering fabulous views across the spectacular bay and sea front, this is certainly a hotel which offers that particular holiday feeling. The hotel keeps its charm through beautiful décor. Its entrance exudes grandeur and allows guests to take a step back in time with its vintage ambiance. The dining room has spectacular views, overlooking Llandudno's bay, and serves a delicious carvery, as well as a good selection for vegetarians and other choices. The hotel offers a number of lovely, fully equipped rooms, with comfortable beds, refreshment trays and private bathrooms. The hotel is an Entertainment Plus Hotel and as such offers things to do all day long, including activities, bingo, live shows etc... All of the ensuite bedrooms are equipped with a TV, hairdryer and tea/coffee making facilities.