Inspirational landscapes and a rich heritage make any visit to Wales a memorable experience. With the exception of the once heavily-industrialised valleys of the south, Wales is sparsely populated with mile after mile of unspoilt scenery waiting to be explored. Whilst almost the whole country has great walks, the real highlights are the three national parks which protect the very best scenery.

Magnificent Snowdonia
The drama of the Welsh landscape is possibly best illustrated in the Snowdonia National Park. Here amongst the towering mountains you'll find brooding lakes, green valleys and peaceful villages, all of which can be appreciated on our Classic Walking holidays at Conwy . If you enjoy mountain walking then the majestic summits of the Carneddau, Glyders and Tryfan offer some of Britain's top routes. Top of them all is Snowdon itself, the highest point in England and Wales. Choose a good day and the view from the summit is quite sensational. For those who enjoy the most challenging walking the Cambrian Way North links all of Snowdonia's main peaks; a holiday for a true mountain connoisseur.

Looking around this now peaceful landscape you would be hard pushed to know that the area was once the centre of conflict and industry. From the cavernous slate quarries to Edward I's imposing castles at Conwy and Caernarfon, the area has a rich history to tell. Discover this on either our Classic Walking or Easier Walking holidays where you'll have plenty of time to visit some of the numerous local sights.

With the mountains in the heart of the national park being the main draw it is easy to overlook the area's coastal scenery. This can be enjoyed by following the North Wales Path or on a holiday to the Cliffs and Coves of Anglesey.

Seascapes of Pembrokeshire
As Britain's only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire, is a fantastic example of the power of the sea. Here the rugged cliffs, battered year after year by the crashing waves, are punctuated only by outstanding sandy beaches and charming fishing villages. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is definitely the best way of appreciating this idyllic coastal landscape. Choose between a self-guided holiday covering the stretch from Dale to St David's or a guided holiday on the more challenging section from Cardigan to St David's.

Gracious Brecon Beacons
Whilst it may lack the drama of Snowdonia's high peaks, the Brecon Beacons National Park certainly makes up for this in the beauty of its green rolling scenery. Situated in the attractive Usk Valley is the small market town of Brecon, a charming base for our Classic Walking holidays. The upland areas of the park include the Beacons themselves which rise to their highest point on the summit of Pen-y-Fan. Equally attractive are the long unspoilt ridges of the Black Mountains with their peaceful walks and endless views. Mountain walkers may enjoy the Cambrian Way South; a superb high-level route through the hills and mountains of southern Wales.

For those who wish to takes things a little more gently, the lush valleys are a real delight. In particular the spectacular cascades of 'waterfalls country' are certainly not to be missed. Alternatively the Usk Valley Walk is a charming guided trail along this attractive meandering river.

Exploring the Welsh Marches
Known as the 'Welsh Marches' the border between Wales and England offers mile after mile of unspoilt countryside. On a Classic Walking holidays at Montgomery you can enjoy this rich landscape and discover Offa's Dyke, the ancient border. We also cross into Shropshire to walk on Long Mynd and on the hills around Bishop's Castle.