We both have a bucket list of places we always wanted to visit, but Wales wasn’t even on the radar. Being able to spend two days here was such a great surprise, we had a fantastic experience so much so that we can’t wait to go back when we have the time to explore more of this Country. Wales is known for its rich Celtic culture, very pretty countryside, stunning coastal areas, and amazing adventures which we saw on our shore excursion thru parts of the Country. We passed by Snowdonia National Park, the largest national park in Wales, which has beautiful waterfalls, lakes, hiking trails, skiing, as well as a zip line. We saw so many hikers and were informed there are hikes for beginners to experienced hikers especially in snow. There are even activities for the daredevils, and also for those who don’t want to hike to see some of this park there is a train. It’s a once in a lifetime adventure on the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which has been described as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. Trains depart from Llanberis Station and begin their climb to the Summit of Snowdon, Yr Wyddfa, round tip takes 2 1/2 hours.
Next stop was Conwy Castle, a famous fortress that is exceptionally well preserved. It contains the most intact set of medieval royal apartments in Wales. The high curtain wall and eight lofty towers rise almost as impressively as when they were built more than 700 years ago, built by Edward I, during his conquest of Wales, between 1283 and 1287. Constructed as part of a project to create the walled town of Conwy cost around 15,000 pounds, a massive sum for the period. Thanks to restored spiral staircases in its great towers you can walk a complete circuit around the battlements of Conwy Castle. While I wasn’t physically able to climb up a staircase I highly recommend it. This is one of the most magnificent medieval fortresses in Europe. My nephew Shaun was able to run up the stairs and wave at us from the top, he highly recommends the view.
The other Castle we got to visit is Caernarfon, a medieval fortress located in Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Wales. It is one of the most impressive and well-preserved castles in the country and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The castle was built by King Edward I of England in the late 13th century as part of his campaign to conquer Wales. Construction of Caernarfon Castle began in 1283 and was completed around 1330. The architecture of Caernarfon Castle is unique and combines both military and symbolic elements. The castle features four towers, a massive curtain wall, and a distinctive Eagle Tower, which is the tallest and most elaborate of the towers.
The castle was in the midst of a multi million pound restoration project when we were there in August, 2022. Once complete it will include lifts to make the spectacular views accessible for everyone. The towers with stone stairways had no rails so we stayed on the ground level while Shaun went up to the top and Ayr visited the dungeon for inspiration? The castle was very beautiful? No wait it was very Royal. We were just wishing the lift was working now for us old folk.
On the way back to the ship we stopped at a little town with the longest name it is Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. The name translates to “St Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St. Tysilio of the red cave.” Please just don’t ask me how to pronunce it_)
On this visit having my sister Sheila and Shaun with us made it so special, wow what a great day we had!
