Scenic Wales with Steam Train Experience
Discover Wales by train!
Explore Wales by car and train! You'll travel the country on this 8-night trip, experiencing the countryside by car and by steam train. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, round-trip train rides, and more as you discover all that Wales has to offer!
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Our Flexible Change Plan is included with this package , allowing you to cancel and rebook at a later date for any reason (even COVID-19) up to 14 days before departure for a full credit that can be used for travel at a later date. See Terms & Conditions for more details.Â
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Cardiff (CWL)
- Manual rental car for the duration of your trip – upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Cardiff at Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff, or similar
- 2 nights in Brecon Beacons at the Brecon Castle Hotel, or similar
- Brecon Mountain Railway round-trip journey
- Bala Lake Railway round-trip journey
- 2 nights in Llandudno at the Llandudno Bay Hotel or similar
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway round-trip journey
- Snowdon Mountain Railway journey
- 1 night in Aberystwyth (Mid-Wales) at the Nanteos Mansion or similar
- Vale of Rheidol Railway round-trip journey
- 2 nights in Cardiff at the Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff or similar
- Cadw Explorer Pass (7-day)**
- Breakfast Daily
*Please note: The rail journey experiences within this package operate like day tours (departing from and returning to the same place). Transportation between cities is done with your included rental car.Â
**Please note: The Cadw Explorer Pass is a government issued pass and cannot be uploaded into your Travel Portal Account before departure. The actual pass will be delivered to your first accommodation and will be waiting for you at the front desk.Â
Great Ways to Explore
Explore the beautiful Welsh countryside, capital city, and so much more.
History lovers rejoice as you learn about the culture and history of Wales.
Long drives and scenic train rides are complimented by the opportunity to hike and sightsee on foot!
Enjoy comfortable and welcoming accommodations throughout your trip.
Discover Welsh history, culture, food, and geography!
This 8-night itinerary takes you through Wales via road and rail. Fly into Cardiff, pick up your rental car, and let the adventure begin!
Spend your first night in Cardiff relaxing and resting up for your trip. You'll start your journey with a drive from Cardiff to Brecon Beacons National Park, where you'll stay for two nights. Then, take a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway; the first rail adventure of your vacation. This scenic route runs through the Brecon Beacons. Spend your remaining free time exploring the National Park!
Spend two nights in Llandudno while you explore Snowdonia National Park and take a trip on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway. From there, you'll drive to Aberystwyth. Stop en route to take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which will take you to Mount Snowdon-- the highest peak in England and Wales! You'll spend one night in Aberystwyth before continuing back to Cardiff.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Cardiff (CWL)
- Manual rental car for the duration of your trip – upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Cardiff at Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff, or similar
- 2 nights in Brecon Beacons at the Brecon Castle Hotel, or similar
- Brecon Mountain Railway round-trip journey
- Bala Lake Railway round-trip journey
- 2 nights in Llandudno at the Llandudno Bay Hotel or similar
- Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway round-trip journey
- Snowdon Mountain Railway journey
- 1 night in Aberystwyth (Mid-Wales) at the Nanteos Mansion or similar
- Vale of Rheidol Railway round-trip journey
- 2 nights in Cardiff at the Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff or similar
- Cadw Explorer Pass (7-day)**
- Breakfast Daily
*Please note: The rail journey experiences within this package operate like day tours (departing from and returning to the same place). Transportation between cities is done with your included rental car.Â
**Please note: The Cadw Explorer Pass is a government issued pass and cannot be uploaded into your Travel Portal Account before departure. The actual pass will be delivered to your first accommodation and will be waiting for you at the front desk.Â
Explore the beautiful Welsh countryside, capital city, and so much more.
History lovers rejoice as you learn about the culture and history of Wales.
Long drives and scenic train rides are complimented by the opportunity to hike and sightsee on foot!
Enjoy comfortable and welcoming accommodations throughout your trip.
Discover Welsh history, culture, food, and geography!
This 8-night itinerary takes you through Wales via road and rail. Fly into Cardiff, pick up your rental car, and let the adventure begin!
Spend your first night in Cardiff relaxing and resting up for your trip. You'll start your journey with a drive from Cardiff to Brecon Beacons National Park, where you'll stay for two nights. Then, take a trip on the Brecon Mountain Railway; the first rail adventure of your vacation. This scenic route runs through the Brecon Beacons. Spend your remaining free time exploring the National Park!
Spend two nights in Llandudno while you explore Snowdonia National Park and take a trip on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway. From there, you'll drive to Aberystwyth. Stop en route to take a ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which will take you to Mount Snowdon-- the highest peak in England and Wales! You'll spend one night in Aberystwyth before continuing back to Cardiff.
Please note that some package inclusions may be restricted or unavailable at time of travel. We will substitute them with similar options of equivalent value, as available.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Cardiff!
Upon arrival at the airport, you'll pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel. Check in, freshen up, and treat yourself to a delicious dinner in the city center. Use your Cadw Explorer Pass to visit a few attractions if you please. You made it!
A Tip For Your Trip: *Please note: The Cadw Explorer Pass is a government issued pass and cannot be uploaded into your Travel Portal Account before departure. The actual pass will be delivered to your first accommodation and will be waiting for you at the front desk.
Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff is located right in Cardiff's city center, making it easy to stay where the excitement is. The Victorian-style building features an intriguing design and a bright atmosphere. Only a 12-minute walk from Cardiff Castle and 14 minutes from the Cardiff Millennium Stadium, the property is well-located for sightseeing. Guestrooms are elegantly designed and provide all the amenities travelers need for a comfortable stay.Â
Radisson Blu Cardiff is located in the heart of the city. One of the tallest buildings in the city, guests can expect to enjoy sweeping city views throughout the hotel. Rooms are equipped with free WiFi, television, and a minifridge. Grab a bite at Collage Restaurant & Grill and experience traditional British cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Kick back with a cocktail at Collage Bar & Lounge and watch a rugby match or soak up the gorgeous city views. Room service is available 24 hours, so you don't have to worry about leaving your room again after a long day of sightseeing. Take a 10 minute stroll over to Cardiff Castle, or hop on a train near the hotel to experience other nearby attractions. Whatever you choose, your stay will be comfortable and convenient at Radisson Blu Cardiff.
Mercure Bristol Holland House Hotel and Spa features an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Event facilities include a conference center, conference/meeting rooms, and small meeting rooms. This eco-friendly hotel also offers multilingual staff, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and laundry facilities. Limited onsite parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis (surcharge).
Exchange Hotel is located just a short walk from Cardiff Bay, amidst many top attractions. Guest rooms are well-appointed and include free WiFi, television, complimentary toiletries, and more. The onsite restaurant serves dishes that feature fresh, local produce. The hotel also has meeting rooms, banquet facilities, concierge services, and additional amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.
7-day Cadw Explorer Pass
The Cadw Explorer Pass is a great value way to discover the impressive history and heritage that Wales has to offer with free entry to over 100 historic sites including castles and many other stunning properties. It provides access to over 100 impressive castle, abbeys and historic sites. The 7 day pass can be used any 7 days over a 14-day period.
Day 2. Cardiff - Brecon Beacons
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before setting off on your first adventure. Today, you'll drive to beautiful Brecon Beacons to enjoy the first of two nights! The drive will take approximately one hour.Â
Stay at Wales' oldest hotel, the beautiful Brecon Castle Hotel! Enjoy breathtaking views of Brecon Beacons National Park as you dine and unwind. All rooms are furnished with free WiFi, television, and coffee/tea making facilities. The Beacons View Restaurant serves scrumptious light bites and full meals, with something on the menu to please everyone. The Castle Bar serves everything from morning coffee to an evening nightcap. Take advantage of the hotel's location and explore the beauty of Brecon Beacons National Park!
Immerse yourself in old-world charm and inviting warmth at this beautiful hotel in the Brecon Beacons. Dating back to 1432, the award-winning Bear Hotel boasts some of its original features, like cobblestone paths, stone walls, an old archway, and a quaint courtyard. It also, however, has spruced itself up with modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and flat-screen satellite TV! To put it simply, The Bear is a perfect blend of historic charm with contemporary comfort.
Open the door to your spacious room and find luxurious bath amenities, plush beds, well-equipped electronics, and tasteful decor. When you get hungry, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant/bar. If you're too cozy to leave your room, there's always room service!
Nestled in the heart of Brecon Beacons National park, this relaxing retreat boasts beauty, comfort, and entertainment. If you haven't done enough hiking, break a sweat in the on-site fitness center! Make a splash in the sparkling swimming pool, then feel your stresses disappear in the steam room. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant!
Head up to your spacious room, where you'll find elegant decor, plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, and much more.
Just a 2-minute walk from Abergavenny Castle, this award-winning hotel boasts beautiful grounds, elegant decor, and comfortable rooms. Pull up to this quaint former coaching inn on the edge of Brecon Beacons and step into chic sophistication and warm hospitality. Check in with the 24-hour reception team, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to free Wi-Fi, luxurious bath amenities, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and more!
When you get hungry, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the classy Oak Room restaurant, then unwind with a cocktail at the Foxhunter Bar. Immerse yourself in Welsh tradition and treat yourself to a delightful High Tea, served daily at The Angel.
Day 3. Brecon Beacons
Wake up and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Then, you'll embark on the Brecon Mountain Railway. Soak up the stunning views of the mountains and Pontcticill Reservoir. Spend the rest of the day exploring the National Park!
Brecon Beacons National Park • Brecon, Wales
Day 4. Brecon Beacons - Llandudno
Today, you'll drive from Brecon Beacons to Llandudno. Stop along the way in the town of Bala, where you'll enjoy a trip on the Bala Lake Railway. This journey offers incredible views of Llyn Tegid and the countryside. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way! After the rail excursion, continue to Llandudno where you'll enjoy the first of two nights.Â
Bala Lake Railway round-trip journey
Combining Victorian elements with modern comforts, Llandudno Bay Hotel provides an excellent choice accommodation. Enjoy bay and mountain views in this prime location on Llandudno Bay. Bathrobes, complimentary toiletries, free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, smart television, and more are included in every room. A hearty Welsh breakfast is served daily to start your day off right. Try the bar or a la carte menu options for lunch or dinner at Fenton's. Afternoon Tea is served seven days a week. Easily explore all that North Wales has to offer when you stay at Llandudno Bay Hotel.
Belmont Hotel is a new boutique hotel located right on Llandudno Bay, overlooking Llandudno Pier. All hotel rooms are furnished with free WiFi, television, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. Grab a bite at The Grill at North Parade and experience fresh, locally sourced ingredients in your dishes. The hotel serves breakfast, offering traditional Welsh selections as well as locally made pastries. Try the signature cocktail, The Belmont Jewel, while watching the sunset! You'll enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay at the Belmont.
Step into old-world royalty at this stunning accommodation, nestled on picture-perfect garden grounds. Admire the building's manor-like exterior, then enter into a world of charm and sophistication. Check-in with the friendly reception team and notice elegant decor, rich colors, and wooden furnishings. Head up to your spacious room, where you'll find plush bedding, luxurious bath amenities, and modern fixtures.Â
Nestled on the Deganwy Marina, this contemporary hotel offers stunning views of the sparkling Conwy Estuary. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then head up to your room. Open the door and find plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, luxurious bath amenities, flat-screen TV, and more! Many rooms boast beautiful views of the courtyard, the marina, or the sea.Â
When you get hungry, head down to the swanky on-site restaurant/bar. Or, stay cozy in bed and order room service!
Day 5. Llandudno
Today, you'll visit Blaenau Ffestiniog, a town in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. The drive will take approximately one hour from your Llandudno hotel.
Today's steam train is Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway, which goes at a slower speed so you can truly absorb the beautiful surroundings.
Ffestiniog and Welsh Highlands Railway round-trip journey
Day 6. Llandudno - Aberystwyth
Wake up and enjoy breakfast at your hotel. Continue your journey towards Aberystwyth, with a stop to ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway. This experience will take you up to the peak of Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in England and Wales!Â
Snowdon Mountain Railway journey
Nanteos Mansion is located near the town of Aberystwyth, between Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains. Breakfast is offered each morning in the Mansion Kitchen and features hot and continental items. Enjoy a cozy yet spacious room with free WiFi, television, and coffee/tea making facilities. Free onsite parking is available and includes charging stations. yr Eos is a restaurant featuring locally sourced produce and ingredients with a touch of Welsh influence. Take a tour of the historic mansion as you enjoy Afternoon Tea. The quiet location provides easy access to the surrounding areas of Aberystwyth and the Welsh countryside.
Set within 45 acres of well-manicured grounds, meadowlands, and more, Glandyfi Hotel combines ancient castle vibes with modern amenities. Complimentary WiFi is included with your stay. Enjoy one of 8 recently renovated rooms that emphasize the castle's history! Rooms include coffee/tea making facilities, telephone, and television. Breakfast is plentiful at Glandyfi and features a delicious assortment of dishes featuring local produce and the freshest ingredients. The castle gardens are the perfect place to unwind with a beverage after a day of exploring. On a colder evening, cozy up by the fireplace in the castle's library. Whatever adventure you choose, your stay at Glandyfi Hotel will be comfortable and charming!
Gwesty Cymru is a tiny boutique hotel located on the Aberstwyth Seafront. Relax in the comfort of your plush bathrobe in your room while you watch or listen to the waves of Cardigan Bay! Enjoy free WiFi, television, and complimentary teas and coffees in every guest room. Dine at the onsite restaurant and enjoy traditional Welsh cuisine for lunch or dinner, or if you're lucky, enjoy a Sunday roast! The train and bus stations are just a short walk away, connecting you with the rest of the area. For those wishing to soak up Aberystwyth’s Victorian promenade, you'll be in a prime location to do so!
Day 7. Aberystwyth - Cardiff
Enjoy breakfast before taking the Vale of Rheidol steam train! This journey will take you to the Devil's Bridge where it is said to be the last place the Devil visited in Wales-- Spooky! You'll experience breathtaking views of the Rheidol Valley and see numerous waterfalls. Continue south to Cardiff to check into your hotel.Â
Rheidol Railway round-trip journey
Cathedral 73 Hotel Cardiff is located right in Cardiff's city center, making it easy to stay where the excitement is. The Victorian-style building features an intriguing design and a bright atmosphere. Only a 12-minute walk from Cardiff Castle and 14 minutes from the Cardiff Millennium Stadium, the property is well-located for sightseeing. Guestrooms are elegantly designed and provide all the amenities travelers need for a comfortable stay.Â
Radisson Blu Cardiff is located in the heart of the city. One of the tallest buildings in the city, guests can expect to enjoy sweeping city views throughout the hotel. Rooms are equipped with free WiFi, television, and a minifridge. Grab a bite at Collage Restaurant & Grill and experience traditional British cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Kick back with a cocktail at Collage Bar & Lounge and watch a rugby match or soak up the gorgeous city views. Room service is available 24 hours, so you don't have to worry about leaving your room again after a long day of sightseeing. Take a 10 minute stroll over to Cardiff Castle, or hop on a train near the hotel to experience other nearby attractions. Whatever you choose, your stay will be comfortable and convenient at Radisson Blu Cardiff.
Mercure Bristol Holland House Hotel and Spa features an indoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. Event facilities include a conference center, conference/meeting rooms, and small meeting rooms. This eco-friendly hotel also offers multilingual staff, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and laundry facilities. Limited onsite parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis (surcharge).
Exchange Hotel is located just a short walk from Cardiff Bay, amidst many top attractions. Guest rooms are well-appointed and include free WiFi, television, complimentary toiletries, and more. The onsite restaurant serves dishes that feature fresh, local produce. The hotel also has meeting rooms, banquet facilities, concierge services, and additional amenities to ensure a pleasant stay.
Day 8. Cardiff
Explore Cardiff's busy capital city! You have the opportunity to visit St. Fagan's, one of the best open-air museums in all of Europe. Treat yourself to dinner overlooking Cardiff Bay to cap off your trip!
Cardiff Bay • Cardiff, Wales
Day 9. Depart Wales
Enjoy a final breakfast before beginning your drive to the airport. Return your rental car at the airport and fly home!Â
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to https://www.greatvaluevacations.com/travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.