Are you craving a memorable holiday full of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and a touch of thrill? Cymru, also known as Wales, offers some of the most stunning state parks perfect for a fun, active, and flirty holiday with friends. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, exploring these top 5 state parks will give you a true taste of nature’s best. So, pack your bags, rent a cozy holiday rental, and get ready to immerse yourself in the wilderness, outdoor activities, and local experiences that make Cymru a prime destination for adventure lovers.
1. Brecon Beacons National Park: The Ultimate Playground for Adventure Enthusiasts
Located in the heart of Cymru, Brecon Beacons National Park is a paradise for nature lovers seeking an active holiday. With its vast expanses of rolling hills, rugged mountains, and lush forests, this park offers an unparalleled array of outdoor activities. You can opt for a short term rental close to the park to maximize your stay and enjoy easy access to the best trails and scenic spots.
Begin your adventure with a hike up Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, offering breathtaking panoramic views for miles around. For those who love biking, the numerous mountain bike trails in the park will test your skills and stamina. Want a more relaxed day? Take a leisurely walk along the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal or explore the charming villages dotted around the park.
After a day of activities, unwind in one of the cozy holiday accommodation options in nearby towns like Talgarth or Brecon. Use Search and Stay to find the perfect place to stay in the area that fits your vibe—whether a rustic cabin, a stylish apartment, or a scenic cottage.
Discover the local experiences through outdoor adventure tours, cider tastings, and farmers markets, which enrich your holiday with authentic Welsh culture. For detailed ideas on things to do, check out Visit Wales for expert tips on local experiences and activities.
2. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: Coastal Charm and Exciting Activities
If your ideal holiday includes the sea, stunning coastal scenery, and a vibrant marine environment, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the place to be. It’s a destination where you can rent a seaside holiday home and indulge in a mix of relaxing days and active pursuits. This park is perfect for nature lovers who thrive on exploring diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches.
Start your day with a coastal hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, challenging yourself with exhilarating cliff-top walks. For water adventures, kayaking, coasteering, and paddleboarding are popular activities that bring thrills and fun to your holiday with friends. The park also has charming seaside towns like Tenby and St Davids, where you can rent bikes or simply sit back in cafes with local ales and seafood.
Many holiday rentals are available near the coast, offering beautiful sea views and easy access to outdoor activities. Use Search and Stay to find your ideal accommodation in Pembrokeshire, from contemporary flats to traditional Welsh cottages.
Beyond the outdoor activities, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting historic sites like St Davids Cathedral or sampling local delicacies at farmers markets. For more ideas on things to do and local experiences, visit Visit Pembrokeshire.
3. Snowdonia National Park: An Adventure Seeker's Dream
For those who love conquering peaks and exploring rugged wilderness, Snowdonia National Park is a must-visit destination for your holiday accommodation in Cymru. This park is renowned for its dramatic mountain ranges, waterfalls, and lakes, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities that are both fun and challenging.
Climb Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, with various routes suited for different levels of fitness and experience. Once at the summit, enjoy spectacular views that make every step worth it. For a unique experience, try zip-lining through the lush forests or taking a thrilling rock-climbing adventure on natural crags.
After a full day of outdoor pursuits, relax in a cozy holiday rental nestled in the countryside or in one of the nearby villages such as Betws-y-Coed or Llanberis. These villages offer a range of accommodations perfect for active travelers and are well-located to explore the park’s highlights.
Find your ideal place to stay in Snowdonia through Search and Stay and enjoy easy access to adventure. Enhance your holiday with local experiences like white-water rafting, mountain biking, and exploring ancient castles. For active fun and indoor pursuits, explore things to do in Wales.
4. Cardiff and Surroundings: The Vibrant Urban Nature Escape
While Cymru is famed for its mighty parks and mountains, the capital city Cardiff offers an energetic blend of urban life and natural escapes. For a holiday with a mix of city excitement and outdoor adventures, staying in central Cardiff with easy access to parks, coastal paths, and cultural hubs is ideal.
Explore Bute Park, located right in the city, which is perfect for a relaxed day of walking, picnicking, or renting bikes to explore the green space. For a more active day out, venture to Cardiff Bay, where you can enjoy sailing, kayaking, or take part in local watersports activities.
Looking for an escape to nature while staying in the city? Choose a holiday rental near the park or waterfront, using Search and Stay to find the perfect stay. From stylish city apartments to waterfront cottages, options abound for active explorers who love fun and convenience.
Discover local experiences such as food festivals, craft markets, and guided walking tours in Cardiff. Enhance your holiday experience with local favourites, and learn about fun things to do in the city and beyond via Visit Cardiff.
5. Gower Peninsula: The Hidden Gem for Beach and Nature Lovers
Gower Peninsula, designated as the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a fantastic destination for a jaw-dropping holiday full of beaches, cliffs, and scenic hikes. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, perfect for active, fun-seeking travelers with an interest in nature.
Spend your days exploring sandy beaches like Rhossili Bay, considered one of the best beaches in the world, perfect for swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun. Embark on coastal hikes along the Gower Way, discovering secluded coves and breathtaking viewpoints. The rugged landscape also provides excellent opportunities for rock climbing and coasteering for thrill-seekers.
Book a holiday rental in or near Swansea or along the coast to enjoy quick access to outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer a seaside cottage, a modern holiday apartment, or a rustic lodge, Search and Stay makes it easy to find your perfect place to stay in Gower.
Take part in local experiences such as ancient castle visits, wildlife spotting, and sampling local food. If you’re looking for things to do, explore Things to do in Wales for more inspiration on activities and adventures around Gower.
Whether you’re seeking the challenge of mountain summits, the serenity of coastal walks, or the buzz of city adventures, Cymru’s top state parks provide an unbeatable backdrop for an active, fun, and memorable holiday with friends. Remember to check availability and book your stay early through Search and Stay, making your holiday planning smooth and stress-free. Pack your camera, your sense of adventure, and your playful spirit—Cymru is waiting to give you the holiday experience you deserve.