Five Hidden Gems To Discover When Touring Wales

Why follow the crowds to the usual tourist honey pots? Every country has its own hidden delights to attract you, and Wales is no different. Many are not even mentioned in guide books, and you will often need a pretty good map to find them. But it will be worth the effort when you get there.

Start exploring by investigating these five off the beaten track gems:

Llanthony Priory

Llanthony Priory

To be found located high up in the Black Mountains, this attraction is a delightful alternative to the more famous Tintern Abbey to the south. Dating from about 1100, this ruined Augustinian priory carries a Grade I listing.
Post Code:  NP7 7NN
Coordinates    51°56′40″N 3°02′16″W

                                                                Llanthony Priory

Pistyll Rhaeadr

It is surprising that this should be described as a hidden gem as it is in fact the highest waterfall in Wales. Located south of Corwen in Denbighshire’s Berwyn Mountains, the falls constitute a beautiful sight, especially on the rare occasion when it is cold enough for them to freeze
Post Code:  SY10 0BZ

                                                                  Pistyll Rhaeadr

Blue Lagoon

Located near the beach at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire, the “lagoon” is in fact a flooded slate quarry, the reason for the distinct green-blue hue.
Post Code:   SA62 6DT
OS Grid Reference       SM 79724 31055   

                                                                     Blue Lagoon

Plas Cadnant

Located between Beaumaris and Menai Bridge on Anglesey, they originally date from the early 1800’s. The gardens have survived a period of neglect, which thankfully ended when the current owners began their restoration in 1996.
Post Code:   LL59 5NH

                                                                     Plas Cadnant

St. Govan’s Chapel

Constructed in a fissure in the rocks just south of Stackpole, it appears as though it is hewn from the cliff face itself. Visible only from the sea until you are almost with reach of it.
OS Reference    OS Reference: SR967929

                                                                 St. Govans Chapel