The Best Scenic Drives in Wales
Published: Wednesday 9th Nov 2016
Written by: Llion Pughe
One of the best ways to enjoy Wales and indulge in all of its beauty is by taking scenic drives. These drives can be extremely relaxing, and you will likely find yourself pulling off to the side of the road multiple times in order to take in the majestic scenery, capture it in photos, and breathe in the fresh air before heading on. What are the best scenic drives in Wales, though? Keep reading for a short list to start planning your journey.
The A470
If you only have time to take one scenic drive while you are in Wales, you should go on the A470. This is the main road that runs from Conwy to Cardiff, and it is a total of 186 miles long. After reserving your parking spot with yourparkingspace.co.uk and preparing for your journey, you can begin your ride in Cardiff before you drive up through South Wales Coalfield and reach the Brecon Beacons. You could then make your way to the top of Pen y Fan, which is southern Britain’s highest point. The road will then skirt Brecon and you will make your way through beautiful rolling farmlands and market towns. Finally, you will get to the midpoint of the country, which is Llanidloes.
The Abergwesyn Pass
Yet another one of the many popular scenic drives in Wales is Abergwesyn Pass, which runs from Tregaron to Llanwrtyd Wells. For those who are seeking a truly wild landscape to take in and photograph, this road should definitely be on your agenda, as you are not likely to find many other drivers, if any, along the way. You will, however, see moors, pine forest, streams, and escarpments. Beware that around the middle of the journey, you will experience some steep hairpin turns in the area known as the Devil’s Staircase. Don’t speed, as you will want to stay safe and in control. Make sure that you check our petrolprices.com before setting off, as along Abergwesyn Pass petrol stations can be few and far between.
The Black Mountain Pass is also referred to as Top Gear Road, and it is a favourite amongst car drivers and bikers. As you move along this curvy scenic road, you will be able to enjoy incredible views of Tywi Valley. Feel free to slow down and take in the scenery.
Aberystwyth to Rhayader
Finally, consider taking a drive from Aberystwyth to Rhayader. This route will take you across the Cambrian Mountains. Start at Aberystwyth by driving on the A4120 to the Devil’s Bridge. Then follow the B4574 all the way to Cwmystwyth. You will end up on a mountain road which will take you through the gorgeous mountains and past the Elan Valley reservoirs. Then you will make your way down to Rhayader.
These are just a few of the many unique roads that provide some of the best scenic drives in Wales, and in the entire UK. Be sure to schedule these drives in during a weekend or whenever you are planning on taking a holiday to Wales, as you will not want to miss them and all the beauty that they provide.