Wales

Wales, the most fortified country in Europe, is all about the great outdoors, impregnable-looking strongholds, a battle-scarred landscape, a wild and spectacular coastline, enchanting villages, soaring snow-clad mountains and a medieval heritage. It's also about culture and the Welsh are fiercely proud of theirs, particularly in the northwest of the country. This national pride is on display during sporting events - Cardiff comes to a standstill on match days when its Millennium Stadium reverberates with the sound of cheering fans. Perhaps the best way to experience this unique culture is in early August when the Eisteddfodau festival ...

Wales, the most fortified country in Europe, is all about the great outdoors, impregnable-looking strongholds, a battle-scarred landscape, a wild and spectacular coastline, enchanting villages, soaring snow-clad mountains and a medieval heritage. It's also about culture and the Welsh are fiercely proud of theirs, particularly in the northwest of the country. This national pride is on display during sporting events - Cardiff comes to a standstill on match days when its Millennium Stadium reverberates with the sound of cheering fans. Perhaps the best way to experience this unique culture is in early August when the Eisteddfodau festival celebrates everything Welsh. North Wales, and in particular, Snowdonia, attracts adrenalin junkies from far and wide, and when the snow falls here there can be no lovelier place in the country. In the southwest, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is another jewel in the great outdoors, with its soaring cliffs, sheltered coves, sandy beaches and reliable surf. Cardiff burns day and night with creative energy and Cardiff Bay is an extraordinary tale of regeneration where depressed docklands have been turned into a buzzing area of international hotels, fine restaurants and the Wales Millennium Centre.

About the Expert

Alan Murphy is coauthor of Lonely Planet's Britain, Scotland, India and North India. He has been writing and updating travel guidebooks for the past eight years.