When it comes to epic road trips, Wales isn’t usually top of the list – but after visiting myself multiple times over the years, it certainly should be. Imagine driving through vast, mountainous landscapes, discovering beaches that stretch for miles, and stumbling across medieval castles that look like they belong in a fairy tale. Welcome to the Welsh Coast 400!
Wales may be small, but trust me, it’s packed with things to see, do, and experience! The Welsh Coast 400 is your ticket to exploring the highlights, from dramatic coastlines to quaint villages. And if you’re like me, you’ll love that you can get lost (in the best way) yet still manage to find your way to the next incredible stop in no time.
Welsh roads are surprisingly well connected, mostly A roads that make for easy, scenic drives – perfect for taking it slow and enjoying the journey. These routes let you travel at a comfortable pace and take in the views, making Wales an ideal destination for those dipping their toes into road tripping for the first time.
Whether you’re tackling the full 400 miles or taking a shorter loop around North or South Wales, this road trip has something for every traveller.
Personally, I completed the road trip anti-clockwise starting in North Wales, following the coast around to the West and then heading South.
Typically, Wales doesn’t have a single set road trip like the NC500 in Scotland and this means you have more flexibility creating your own bespoke adventure. You can find detailed itineraries in my ‘Road Trip Wales’ guidebook.
For example, this might give you some ideas of you’re not wanting to do the full stretch:
Starting up north, Anglesey is a must. It’s like a mini-world of Welsh culture and natural beauty! It has everything from pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and charming villages. Make sure to pop by Beaumaris Castle, a medieval stunner with a waterfront backdrop that looks like something out of a story.
Then there’s Snowdonia National Park, this is definitely worth visiting! Even if you’re not up for climbing Snowdon, driving through the park is worth every second. The roads here are pure scenic bliss, with every bend revealing new, jaw-dropping landscapes.
Heading down the coast, you’ll hit towns like Aberystwyth. This is the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon wandering colourful seaside buildings, enjoying a cone of Welsh ice cream, and exploring local history at the National Library of Wales. Further down, there’s Aberaeron, a colourful harbour town that practically begs for an Instagram snap – or ten.
The thing about mid-Wales is that it’s dotted with these lovely little spots, each with its own personality. Keep your camera ready and be ready to pull over for some stunning photo ops along this stretch of coast.
South Wales is packed with breathtaking scenery, from rugged coastal cliffs to iconic beaches like Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula—often hailed as one of the UK’s best. Imagine golden sands bordered by rolling hills and dramatic cliffs, perfect for a lazy wander or, if you’re up for it, a surf session in the Atlantic.
Stop in Cardiff, Wales’ vibrant capital, where historic charm and city life collide. Cardiff Castle, right in the city centre, offers a step back into medieval times with touches of Victorian grandeur. Foodies will love exploring the local flavors, from classic Welsh cakes to rarebit and fresh seafood.
Once you’ve sampled Cardiff, head into the Brecon Beacons. Take a scenic drive along the Black Mountains Road Circuit, where the views are simply stunning. For a memorable finish, hike Pen Y Fan, one of the highest peaks in South Wales, where panoramic vistas reward your effort and make for the perfect end to your Welsh Coast 400 journey.
Collie dog lover, keen traveler and travel guide writer. In 2022, I launched No Fuss Travel Guides with 'North Coast 500 - The Road Trip of a Lifetime' which became an Amazon best seller. I've since worked with tourism boards including Visit Wales and have been featured in The Guardian 'Best of Travel'.
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Rob, Staffordshire, UK
