Great Little Trains Of North Wales & Portmeirion

Itinerary

Description

We discover the historic railways and meandering tramways of North Wales on this fantastic five-day break, where the lovely Welsh scenery and endless panoramas of the Snowdonia National Park create spectacular and memorable journeys. We’re based in Llandudno, the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’, and also enjoy a visit to the unique, Italianate village of Portmeirion. Just imagine hearing the faint lapping of waves and admiring brightly-coloured cottages and domed buildings as you head to an authentic gelateria…no, you’re not in Italy, this is Wales!

Itinerary

Included Excursions

Caernarfon & Welsh Highland Railway (full day)

We travel to Caernarfon, a charming town with a thriving harbour located on the eastern shore of the Menai Straits. The main landmark of Caernarfon is the mighty castle ordered by Edward I in the 13^th century and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon we board the Welsh Highland Railway and enjoy a picturesque trip to the quaint village of Beddgelert, admiring the awe-inspiring scenery of the Snowdonia National Park on the way. Stunning coastlines, ancient woodlands, towering mountains, sparkling rivers and historic castles create an enchanting and memorable journey.

Llanberis Lake Railway & free time in Llandudno (full day)

This morning we head to the bustling village of Llanberis, wonderfully located at the foot of mighty Mount Snowdon, where we board the Llanberis Lake Railway. Here we take in the grand lakes, volcanic rock formations and mountainous vistas surrounding the village.

Later we enjoy some free time at leisure in our resort. Llandudno is known as the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’ and is famed for its golden beach flanked by two headlands, the Great and Little Ormes, and its wonderful air of traditional Victorian charm. From strolling along the beautiful coast to exploring the famous Llandudno pier, or perhaps a spot of shopping at the Victoria centre, there is plenty to do here.

Portmeirion & Ffestiniog Railway(full day)

Architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis designed and built the Italianate village of Portmeirion after being inspired by visits to the Mediterranean. Its unique atmosphere has seen it featured on camera many times, most famously in the 1960s TV series, The Prisoner. Enjoy browsing the cluster of historic cottages and iconic architecture, admire the glorious views, and indulge in an ice cream in the authentic Italian style gelateria.

After a morning here, we travel to the harbour town of Porthmadog to catch the Ffestiniog Railwayto the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau. The train climbs over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures, magnificent forests, lakes and waterfalls.

Coach Bullets

• Return coach travel
• 4 nights at the New Loretta Hotel, Llandudno with dinner & breakfast
• Entertainment some evenings
• Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion
• Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Llanberis Lake Railway & Ffestiniog Railway
• Free time in Llandudno

Search Bullets

• 4 nights at the New Loretta Hotel, Llandudno with dinner & breakfast
• Entertainment some evenings
• Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion
• Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Llanberis Lake Railway & Ffestiniog Railway
• Free time in Llandudno

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Loretta Hotel

Search Results Coach

JG2

Hotels with a JG2 rating are a mixture of larger hotels and privately owned properties. Décor and furnishings may be simple but are clean and well maintained. All bedrooms have en-suite facilities, TV and may have tea/coffee making facilities. Food may be buffet style in some of the larger hotels. Services may be limited but efficient.

Highlights Self Drive Only

• 4 nights at a selected hotel in Llandudno with dinner & breakfast 
• Entertainment some evenings
• Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion
• Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway
• Free time in Llandudno
  
  

Accommodation

Hotels

The New Loretta Hotel is located on a quiet avenue, five minutes’ walk from the beach in Llandudno. All the en-suite rooms offer a flat-screen TV, DVD player and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel also features a restaurant and a conservatory with a bar and outdoor seating area. (JG2 rating)