Discovery

Day 1

Arrive in Trearddur Bay ready to check into your hotel from 15:00.Your hotel is situated right by the beach and boasts fantastic coastal views. 

If you require transfers from the airport, train station or ferry port, please do contact us to make arrangements prior to travelling.

Anglesey is home to some of Wales’s best beaches with several of them gaining status as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. From crossing the bridge onto the island you’ll be treated to views of unspoilt coastlines, as you pass through quaint seaside towns.   

This evening you’ll meet your Tour Leader at the welcome meeting, followed by a group dinner. Enjoy locally produced food and a few Welsh beers – how better to get to know each other ahead of your week of discovery.

Day 2

Explore the island of Anglesey by sea and by land. In the morning you’ll head out on a RIB powerboat to discover the hidden gems of Wales’ rugged coastline and the native wildlife that calls it home. Puffins, seals and dolphins are regularly spotted along these shores.

Back on dry land, in the afternoon you’ll take to the road and travel around the island’s small villages to explore the local culture. Visit some of its many lighthouses and soak up the views of the countryside and seashore. You’ll see how this rural island is a coastal retreat for all kinds of native and migratory wildlife.

Enjoy a free evening to explore Trearddur Bay’s stunning coastline.

Day 3

Snowdon mountain is the jewel in the crown of Snowdonia National Park. Standing at 1,085m it’s the highest mountain in England and Wales. The views from its summit are spectacular on a clear day. Today is a full day of mountain hiking to reach the peak of this impressive, rocky landmark. Breathe the crisp mountain air and soak up the stunning panoramic views.

Listen out for the bleats of Snowdonia’s mountain goats, once herded for meat and milk these goats now roam freely. Whilst the goats tend to stick to the steeper more isolated parts of the cliffs, they are often spotted by walkers as their white and grey coats make them easy to distinguish in the landscape. 

We’ll pause near the summit to replenish your energy before we embark on the descent back to base.

With several routes leading to Snowdon’s summit, we have plenty of options to choose from. Our guide will ensure we take the best circular route for the group and the weather on the day. Their local knowledge means you’ll enjoy the best mountain experience but make sure you’re prepared for a challenging day of hiking!

Day 4

Pack your bags, your journey of discovery continues as you head to your eco home for the next two nights. Situated in the UNESCO Dyfi Biosphere, the Centre for Alternative technology (CAT) is a world-renowned eco centre set in the foothills of South Snowdonia, home to some of the most special landscapes and wildlife areas in Europe.

Settle into your new surroundings with a well-prepared seasonal lunch. When it comes to dining at CAT the ethos is ‘straight from plot to plate’ meaning the menu is made up of ingredients grown in the site’s own allotment or responsibly sourced from the local area. 

Next take a tour of the impressive 30 acre site, with seven unique habitats including heathland, woodland and meadow each hiding an amazing story and an important mission. It’s impossible not to be inspired by the diversity of your surroundings and the ongoing sustainability projects.

Before settling for the evening in your innovative eco accommodation, experience the Wild Night Tour. Be treated to a sensory experience as you take a guided night walk, looking out for bats and other night creatures.

Day 5

After a hearty breakfast head out on a guided walk straight from the centre. Today’s walk takes you into the Dyfi forest. Lying in the shadow of Cadair Idris, the Dyfi forest is dotted with ruins and slate spoil heaps. Look out for sweet woodland birds and even larger hunting birds such as Red Kites, the national bird of Wales.

Sit down for a tasty lunch back at CAT. This afternoon it’s time to put your green fingers to work and learn about the ongoing organic garden projects. Guided by one of the team at CAT, you will learn about natural and sustainable practices, perhaps even doing some planting of your own and certainly taking away tips to improve the biodiversity of your own outdoor space at home.

Dinner is a communal affair as you gather round with your fellow travellers to enjoy a vegetarian meal, freshly prepared with ingredients from the gardens.

Day 6

After a delicious breakfast, it’s time to journey northward to your next destination. 

Take a bike ride from the traditional town of Dolgellau. Follow the cycle trail along the spectacular Mawddach estuary, passing through Arthog wetland RSPB reserve, home to rare flowers, grass snakes, butterflies, dragonflies and all manner of birds, including flocks of siskins and long-tailed tits.

Continue on to the quaint seaside town of Barmouth and a pit stop for a tasty Welsh ice cream at the beach. Enjoy the cycle back to Dolgellau, from where we’ll continue your journey further into Snowdonia National Park.

Take the evening to relax in the Alpine-style village of Betws-y-Coed. Put your feet up at your hotel or perhaps head out to the village pizzeria for their famous Welsh rarebit pizza.

Day 7

Pull on your hiking boots and get ready to explore a UNESCO world heritage site, on a guided walk along the Snowdonia Slate Trail. 

Starting in the Ogwen valley, take in the unique landscape of North Wales slate as you pass through stunning scenery, rich in history. Slate mining is a prominent and proud part of Welsh history, with some of the quarries dating back as far as 1787. A tough industry; slate mining provided work for thousands of people across North Wales and saw Welsh slate being shipped to all four corners of the world.

As you continue on a gradual descent through the Ffrancon valley, pick a spot with a pretty view for your picnic lunch stop. Moving on, meander through the Gwydir Forest, a popular spot for bird-watching. Buzzards and Goshawks are regular sightings. Pass the famous Ugly House before reaching the pretty Swallow Falls. 

Arrive back in Betws-y-Coed, ready to give your feet a well-earned rest.

Day 8

After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to pack your case and swap details with your new friends before you begin your journey home.