Day 1. Monday We travel to Llanberis.
Day 2. Tuesday Following breakfast, we enjoy a journey onboard the Welsh Highland Railway. As the UK’s longest heritage railway, it runs for 25 miles from Caernarfon, passing the foot of Snowdon and the picture-postcard village of Beddgelert, then through the stunning Aberglaslyn Pass and onward to Porthmadog. After a short break in Porthmadog, we board the Ffestiniog Railway. This is the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway, with nearly 200 years of history, taking you on a 13½-mile journey from the harbour at Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. The historic train climbs over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains, winding through tranquil pastures, magnificent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, negotiating tight bends - including a complete spiral - clinging to mountainsides or tunnelling through rock. The railway and its infrastructure are an integral part of the UNESCO “Slate Landscape of North Wales” World Heritage Site.
Day 3. Wednesday Located just a short walk from the hotel, today we include a journey on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which will take you to the summit of Wales’ highest peak. As the train ascends the mountain, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views and discover the mountain’s many hidden secrets, from elegant viaducts and cascading waterfalls to deep gorges and the remains of abandoned farms, chapels, and medieval settlements. The return journey to the summit and back takes approximately 2.5 hours, including a 30-minute stopover at Hafod Eryri, the UK’s highest visitor centre, where you can enjoy refreshments and take in the breathtaking vistas. Operated by a diesel train, the journey offers a unique and unforgettable experience but is subject to weather conditions, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the trip. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes along the way.
Day 4. Thursday Today we enjoy a visit to Llandudno, one of the largest and most popular Welsh seaside resorts. This delightful coastal town is famed for its golden sandy beach, gracefully flanked by two impressive headlands - the Great Orme and Little Orme - and its wonderful air of traditional Victorian charm. Llandudno is also home to the longest pier in Wales, stretching an impressive 2,295 feet out into the sea. Opened in 1902, the Great Orme Tramway is Britain’s only funicular, or cable-hauled, tramway that travels on public roads. The unique journey begins at Victoria Station, just a short walk from Llandudno’s bustling seaside promenade and historic pier, and climbs approximately a mile (1,500 meters) through the beautiful Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve to reach the Great Orme’s spectacular summit (entry not included). This charming town offers plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and relaxing by the sea.
Day 5. Friday We depart after breakfast and return home.
Excursion days are subject to change and will be confirmed with your final travel documents.