Travel
4 of the perfect day journeys from Cardiff, Wales
Cardiff has loads of things to entertain you. That mentioned, Wales‘ capital is completely positioned between the coast, countryside and mountains, so it would be a waste to not enterprise past the town limits. Spend a day on fossil-strewn seashores, taking scenic hikes, having fun with gastronomic delights and rural idylls. From golden sands to rugged peaks, these locations supply among the greatest day journeys from Cardiff.
1. Discover fossils, wonderful meals and funfair thrills within the Vale of Glamorgan
Journey time: 30 minutes
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Cardiff county is shouldered to the southwest by the Vale of Glamorgan, a rural space recognized for its dramatic shoreline, patchwork agricultural fields and conventional market cities. Its proximity to Cardiff means you’ll be able to go to a number of places in sooner or later.
Begin on the shore. Barry has two nice sandy seashores; Whitmore Bay is huge, golden and backed by the amusements, ice cream and funfair of Barry Island, whereas Jacksons Bay, separated solely by headland, is a a lot smaller, secluded cove. Each are good on a sunny day, although Whitmore can get very busy throughout faculty breaks.
Penarth’s seafront has a pebbled seaside, a fairly pier, and a sure class, in addition to a lot of locations in the primary city to eat and drink (strive Brød for Danish pastries and low or the Touring Club for unfussy eating). Llantwit Main Seashore, a part of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast, is a rugged, cliff-backed stretch filled with rock swimming pools and fossils. If the climate is nice and you want climbing, you could possibly stroll your complete Glamorgan Heritage Coast, a scenic 14-mile coastal path from Aberthaw to Porthcawl.
Inland is Cowbridge, a trendy market city with a characterful important avenue lined with boutique retailers, a walled Physic Backyard, unbiased eateries and loads of pubs. Dinas Powys village, between Barry and Cardiff, has a sprawling, fairy-tale historic woodland, full with a former hill fort lookout, wildflowers, a tranquil river with a resident heron and guarded timber so far as the attention can see. Swing by One O’Clock Gate for meals; its Korean fusion small plates appeal to folks from miles round.
Tips on how to get to the Vale of Glamorgan: From Cardiff, driving usually takes 35 minutes to Barry Island, 35 minutes to Llantwit Main, and quarter-hour to Penarth. From these hubs, you’ll be able to attain inland locations in a brief drive. To get to the coast utilizing public transportation take a prepare from Cardiff Central to Barry Island (30 minutes) or Llantwit Main (45 minutes). For Penarth, catch a prepare from Cardiff Queen Road (12 minutes).
2. Hit the golden seashores of Tenby
Journey time: 2 hours
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is the UK’s first and solely coastal nationwide park. Rivaling, and arguably beating, ever-popular seaside locations like Cornwall and Devon, it has over 80 seashores, coves and inlets ripe for exploring.
Tenby, one of many first main coastal spots within the park that you simply encounter coming from Cardiff, is a top-notch city. 5 wonderful sandy seashores run for 3 miles, together with the Mediterranean-like South Seashore and the characterful Harbour Seashore, which sits beneath a row of colourful terraced homes. You’ll be able to simply fill a day in Tenby if the climate behaves; take a ship journey to Caldey Island (a holy island the place Cistercian monks apply prayer, quiet dwelling and chocolate-making), splash within the blue waters, dine on contemporary seafood or amble across the seaside present retailers.
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If sooner or later isn’t sufficient on this heavenly area, you could possibly flip your go to right into a highway journey alongside St Brides Bay. Begin from Broad Haven and Little Haven within the south, then make your method as much as Newgale, Solva and St Davids within the north.
Tips on how to get to Tenby: The drive from Cardiff to Tenby takes slightly below 2 hours. Having a automobile offers you higher flexibility to discover the world, nevertheless it’s not important. For public transport, catch a prepare from Cardiff Central to Tenby (2¾ hours).
3. Comply with the Gower Peninsula shoreline
Journey time: 2 hours
Pack your swimsuit and your boots, the Gower Peninsula – the UK’s first designated Space of Excellent Pure Magnificence – is all about sand, sea and significantly good walks. It has among the greatest seashores in Wales for browsing, SUP and sunbathing, with winding roads and the walkable Wales Coast Path connecting them.
Having a automobile gives you the perfect choices for a full day of exploring a number of spots, to not point out some breathtakingly lovely driving routes alongside the coast (although you may make it work with public transport). Cease first at Mumbles, a coastal resort on the tip of Swansea Bay, for an ice cream, seafood or a browse within the unbiased retailers. Whilst you might fortunately watch the waves from Mumbles Pier for hours, push on across the headland to achieve the Gower Peninsula.
To profit from your time, whether or not you are after water or strolling, stick with among the greatest spots. Peaceable Oxwich Bay has 2 miles of golden sand, a close-by nature reserve teeming with wildlife and the Beach House, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the seaside that makes use of native produce.
Three Cliffs Bay is extremely photogenic, with its three towering limestone cliffs, sand dunes and marshes. The gradual reveal of the bay as you meander from the highest right down to the seaside beneath is as memorable part of visiting right here as strolling on the cave-laden seaside itself.
On the western fringe of the Gower is the 3-mile Rhossili Bay, the golden centerpiece on this string of seashores. Cherished by surfers, nature lovers and walkers, it has a lot house that you simply by no means really feel bothered by crowds. If the tide permits (verify earlier than you go to), you’ll be able to stroll out to Worms Head, a tidal island with spectacular views out throughout the water and seals incessantly sunbathing on the rocks beneath. Keep for the sundown in case you can; it’s magic.
Tips on how to get to the Gower Peninsula: Driving is the quickest and most versatile choice. Cardiff to Swansea is round an hour’s drive, then from Swansea to Rhossili is one other hour. Public transportation isn’t superb for this route, however it’s doable as a final resort. Take the prepare from Cardiff Central to Swansea (1 hour), stroll to Swansea Bus Station (1 mile), then catch both the 117 or 118 bus towards Rhossili. Although gradual and rare, these buses cease close to Three Cliffs Bay and Oxwich Bay earlier than reaching Rhossili.
4. Hike the peaks in Brecon
Journey time: 1½ hours
Whereas the small market city of Brecon has a rugged quaintness value experiencing, it is the area’s mountains, hills, reservoirs and waterfalls that wow. Most walkers and first-time guests take the simple path up Pen-y-Fan mountain to get pleasure from panoramic views. It’s simple to see why this, the best peak in southern Britain, is so fashionable, but when base-to-summit crowds and lining up for selfies on the prime aren’t your vibe, head for one of many equally spectacular however lesser-traversed peaks. For instance, Cribyn is steeper, barely shorter and presents unrivalled views of Pen-y-Fan, whereas quiet Fan y Large has a well-known “diving board” – a pure rock ledge that juts out over the inexperienced expanse beneath rock. For fuelling up earlier than or after, the Felin Fach Griffin pub (albeit a little bit expensive) is a deal with all yr spherical.
Dramatic another way is the Four Waterfalls Walk close to Ystradfellte. The 4½-mile route by means of historic woodlands connects 4 falls of various sizes and drive, together with one – Sgwd yr Eira – which you can really stand behind (an expertise value getting moist for!). Different notable waterside walks embrace these to 2 glacial lakes, specifically Llyn y Fan Fach (well-known in Welsh folklore for its Girl of the Lake) and Llyn y Fan Fawr. In the event you’re taking up a number of hikes, think about staying over; not solely will you will have extra time to stroll, you’ll be able to strive stargazing within the Dark Sky Reserve (Brecon has among the greatest darkish skies within the UK).
Tips on how to get to Brecon: Driving is the easiest way to get from Cardiff to Brecon, which takes round 1½ hours by automobile. If public transport is your solely choice, take the prepare from Cardiff Central to Abergavenny (40 minutes), then a bus (X43 Traws Cymru Join) from there to Brecon (45 minutes).
5. Stroll alongside a heritage canal in Abergavenny
Journey time: 1 hour
For a foodie market city hugged by hills, mountains and rivers, look no additional than Abergavenny. It sits simply outdoors the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) Nationwide Park’s jap border, offering a launch level for walks within the Black Mountains and the Beacons Way, which begins on the city’s ruined citadel. Think about staying over if you wish to conquer a number of peaks (the Angel Hotel is especially well-placed and comfy).
Whereas some head for the hills of Blorenge, Skirrid or Sugar Loaf, a extra stress-free day may be had strolling alongside the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. Strolling alongside the tree-shaded towpath on a sunny day, the place the occasional slim boat or kayak floats by and buzzards soar overhead, is past nice, peaceable and fairly. Publish-walk, head again into city to pattern the Angel Bakery‘s artisanal bread and pastries, the Gaff’s British-inspired small plates or world wines and craft ales at Chesters.
Tips on how to get to Abergavenny: The scenic 40 mile drive from Cardiff to Abergavenny takes simply over an hour. Frequent trains between Cardiff Central and Abergavenny take round 40 minutes every method.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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