| Wales is a country
surrounded by sea on three sides and joins England to it's east, a border
roughly marked by an ancient giant earthwork called Offa's Dyke which,
despite being constructed in the 8th century still continues to attract
hundreds of visitors each year, many of whom rent
holiday
cottages in Powys for that reason alone. Wales covers an area of 20,764
sq km and has a population of approximately 3 million people, concentrated
mainly in the south-east of the country. There are two major mountain
systems in Wales; the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons in the south and
Snowdonia in the north-west, both areas of which have National Park status.
These glaciated mountain regions are cut through by narrow river valleys,
and rolling moorland stretches from Denbigh, in the north, to the Glamorgan
valleys in the south and up to the spectacular cliffs of the west coast.
Wales' lengthy coastline is the perfect environment for seals and seabirds,
and is home to one of the world's largest gannet colonies as well as 30% of
the world's entire Manx shearwater population.
The Welsh climate is typically British, being relatively temperate yet
unpredictable, but its proximity to the mountains and the coast means that
different climatic conditions can be encountered within short distances. The
most popular tourist season is during the summer months between June and
September, when many people rent holiday cottages and apartments, but spring
is a good time to visit, as is autumn when the countryside is a tapestry of
colour. Many tourist attractions are closed during the winter as are some
mountain passes due to heavy snowfall.
Wales is an ideal destination for activity holidays, with walking being
top of the list due to the country's extensive network of designated walks.
The breathtaking scenery makes the perfect backdrop for exploring the
mountain regions and national parks. There are seven long-distance walks,
the most famous being the Pembrokeshire coast path and Offa's Dyke path.
Pony trekking is another popular activity, particularly along the
Pembrokeshire coast, and cyclists can enjoy the quiet, yet challenging roads
through the Brecon Beacons. Needless to say, being mountainous, Wales is a
haven for climbers. Holiday accommodation in Wales can be found to suit your
specific needs in locations throughout the country - from a
self
catering apartment in Cardigan to a
country
cottage in North Wales!
The Welsh are a nation fiercely proud of their national heritage and
culture, and the fact that the Welsh language has survived and is spoken
regularly in many parts of the country, sets them distinctly aside from the
rest of Britain. The language is ancient, developed in the 6th century, and
is Indo-European from a Celtic offshoot with a Latin influence. No wonder so
many of the place names are un-pronounceable! These days the language is
spoken mainly in the rural communities in the west and north-west, whereas
English is used more widely in the larger towns and cities, such as Cardiff,
the capital.
South Pembrokeshire's largest town is Tenby, which is perched
dramatically on the rocky shore-line and is set within town walls that date
back to the Tudor period. Its white sandy beaches, quaint narrow streets and
picturesque harbour make this a picture-postcard holiday setting, and from
here there are daily trips to Caldey island with its monastery and colonies
of seals and seabirds. St.Davids is another beautiful place; accessible from
the Pembrokeshire coast walking trail it is home to an impressive cathedral
and a popular location for water sport fanatics. Broadhaven, on the
Pembrokeshire National Park Coast, is an area of rugged cliffs and sandy
coves with stunning views. A perfect holiday spot for not only bird-watchers
and lovers of the great outdoors, but a favourite location for a
holiday
cottage in Pembrokeshire. A warm welcome awaits you in Wales!
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