Small Group Tour: 2013 Wales Signature
9 Days
from
$2,595. (Price varies depending on pre and post days outside of small group tour).*
Highlights:
Wales
(Cardiff)
Trip Start/End:
Cardiff
/
Cardiff
Wales is a land of mystery and delight. It is perhaps the closest of all of Britain’s regions to its Celtic roots. On your multi-day small group tour of Wales, you'll be brought around this fascinating Principality, as you take in the major sites and learn about Welsh history, language, culture, and industry, as well as enjoying some of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the United Kingdom.
Small group tours depart typically every 2nd Sunday from April 14 - October 6, 2013, and are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 participants. In general, the maximum group size is 16.
Consider adding additional days to your trip with the services of a private guide and/or driver to see more of the country - your time on either side of your small group tour can be customized to suit your needs (and private guided tours can be added throughout your small group experience as desired.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Cardiff
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
- Wales - Welcome Package
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Radisson Blu (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
Alt: Park Plaza Hotel (4*) (Standard)
|
- Day 2
- Cardiff - Brecon Beacons
| - Meet up with Small Group Tour - Hotel to be determined (8:30am)
- Cardiff Bay, St Fagans Museum & Big Pit
- Lunch (not included)
- via Penderyn - Welsh Whisky Distillery
- Dinner (included)
| The Bear Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 3
- Brecon Beacons
| - Breakfast (included)
- Caerleon Roman Baths and Museum & Wye Valley
- Lunch (not included)
- Visit of a Welsh Vineyard
- Dinner (not included)
| The Bear Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 4
- Brecon Beacons - Conwy
| - Breakfast (included)
- Abbey Cwm Hir Hall and Afternoon tea at Cefn Park
- Lunch Included
- Traditional Male Voice Choir concert
- Dinner (not included)
| Castle Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 5
- Conwy
| - Breakfast (included)
- Day at leisure
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Castle Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 6
- Conwy
| - Breakfast (included)
- Caernarfon Castle and National Slate Museum
- Lunch (not included)
- Lleyn Peninsula with Welsh Language Lesson and Tea
- Dinner (included)
| Castle Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 7
- Conwy - Lampeter
| - Breakfast (included)
- via Snowdonia National Park with Harlech Castle and Talyllyn Steam Railway
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (included)
| The Falcondale Hotel (B) or similar |
- Day 8
- Cardiff
| - Breakfast (included)
- Lunch (not included)
- End of Small Group Tour - Hotel to be determined (5:30pm)
- Dinner (not included)
| Barcelo Cardiff Angel (4*)
Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Cardiff
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Cardiff
Radisson Blu
Day 1: Cardiff
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
You will be provided with a welcome pack upon arrival which will include your vouchers, and itinerary as well as additional information such as city maps and train tickets (as relevant).
Accommodation: Radisson Blu (4*) The Radisson Blu Hotel (4*) is located in the city centre of Cardiff and affords guests access to exciting attractions, thriving commercial districts and lively nightlife. Sporting a stunning glass and metal exterior and streamlined décor, this premier accommodation boasts modern design inside and out. 215 rooms and suites at this Cardiff hotel feature bold design, city views and high-quality amenities. The Filini Restaurant offers innovative Italian cuisine served in a contemporary atmosphere.
St Fagans Museum
Brecon Beacons National Park
Day 2: Cardiff - Brecon Beacons
Meet your small group and local guide at 8:30am this morning in Cadrdiff (Hotel To be determined) and depart for your multi day small group tour.
Your tour begins this morning in the Welsh capital, Cardiff. Depart for a panoramic tour of the Cardiff Bay area before visiting the National History Museum of Wales at St. Fagans, which offers a fantastic insight to Welsh heritage. Heading north you will pass the dramatic Caerphilly Castle in the region known as the Welsh Valleys, home to Wales’s former coal mining industry. At the Big Pit, one of Britain’s leading mining museums, you will have the chance to go down a real mine and learn more about the history of the industry in Wales.
Then travel into the beautiful Brecon Beacons National Park to Penderyn for a tour of an award winning Welsh whisky distillery before continuing to your accommodation base in Crickhowell.
Accommodation: The Bear Hotel (B) or similar Welcome to The Bear, a hotel famous far and wide for its welcoming atmosphere, historic character, convivial surroundings and good food. A cobbled forecourt, archway into the inner courtyard and 19th-century stagecoach timetable in the bar are all reminders of the Bear's former role. Set in the heart of The Brecon Beacons National Park, one of Britains most beautiful wilderness areas, you'll find some of the finest walks in Britain with the Beacons themselves and The Black Mountains right on your doorstep.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
Tintern Abbey
Day 3: Brecon Beacons
This morning you journey south from Crickhowell to enjoy some Roman history at Caerleon – the site of one of Britain’s three permanent Roman Legionary Fortresses. Then drive to the beautiful Wye Valley where you will stop at Tintern, home to the Abbey that inspired Wordsworth’s famous poem, "Lines written a few miles above Tintern Abbey".
This afternoon you'll get to travel up the steep valley side, to learn about the United Kingdom’s growing wine industry as you stop at an award winning vineyard. Continuing your journey, you will pass the beautiful ruined Augustinian priory at Llanthony before winding your way back to Crickhowell via Hay-on-Wye, commonly known as the ‘Town of Books’.
Accommodation: The Bear Hotel (B) or similar 
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Castle Hotel
Day 4: Brecon Beacons - Conwy
Bid farewell to the Brecon Beacons this morning and travel north through the border regions of Mid Wales stopping at Abbey Cwm Hir Hall, a gothic-style stately Victorian home with 12 acres of beautiful gardens and passing the impressive Froncysyllte Aqueduct, the longest and highest in the United Kingdom.
Later today you will enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at Cefn Park, where the owners of this country estate will tell you the fascinating story of how they unearthed and restored the original below stairs Victorian kitchen.
After check-in at your hotel in Conwy, you will head to Llandudno for some evening entertainment in the form of a traditional Male Voice Choir concert.
Accommodation: Castle Hotel (B) or similar The Castle Hotel, an old coaching inn, stands on the site of a Cistercian abbey and used to consist of two famous hostelries, The Castle and the 15th Century King's Head. The Castle was by far the larger and in Victorian times has had an attractive face lift of local granite and Ruabon brick and is now one of Conwy's most photographed buildings. The hotels 28 bedrooms to AA and Visit Wales exacting 4 Star Town House standards with a 'boutiquey' feel. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, including the newly improved Dawsons Bar and new Courtyard.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
Conwy Castle
Day 5: Conwy
Today you have a day at leisure in the medieval walled town of Conwy. Particularly recommend is a visit to Conwy Castle, originally built by Edward I between 1283 and 1287. You may also wish to take a short trip to the pleasant seaside resort of Llandudno.
Accommodation: Castle Hotel (B) or similar 
Caernarfon Castle
Day 6: Conwy
This morning you will leave Conwy and head west to Caernarfon Castle. Built by Edward I as a Royal Palace, in the 13th century, it is probably the most famous castle in Wales and its sheer scale and commanding presence easily set it apart from the rest. Then pay a visit to the National Slate Museum in Llanberis.
This afternoon travel along the beautiful Lleyn Peninsula to the Heritage Centre at Nant Gwrtheyrn where you will get to enjoy a short talk on the ancient Welsh language. You will also have the chance to learn a few words in this notoriously difficult to pronounce language for yourself and enjoy a welsh tea!
Return to Conwy where you can enjoy dinner with the rest of the group.
Accommodation: Castle Hotel (B) or similar 
Harlech Castle
The Falcondale Hotel
Day 7: Conwy - Lampeter
Bid farewell to Conwy this morning and drive south through the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. You will make a stop at Harlech, home to another impressive castle and an important place in Welsh national culture.
Later this morning, you will enjoy a spectacular ride on the Talyllyn narrow-gauge steam railway. Cutting through rural mid-Wales, Talyllyn became the world’s first preserved railway in 1951.
Then head to Aberdovey for lunch before making your way south to your accommodation base in the Ceredigion region where you will enjoy a final group dinner together.
Accommodation: The Falcondale Hotel (B) or similar The Falcondale hotel and 2AA rosette restaurant (awarded for 5 consecutive years) located near the University town of Lampeter, now known as University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Only 30 minutes from the coastal villages of Cardigan Bay and hilly, marshy regions of the Cambrian Mountains. The Falcondale was built and designed as a private house in 1859, which means that all of their elegant and luxurious rooms do vary in size, shape and outlook. Dining at the Falcondale in a relaxed award-winning restaurant offering the best of seasonal local produce with a well stocked wine list to compliment. Falcondale - quite simply a warm west wales welcome, fantastic food, great atmosphere, and peaceful surroundings.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
Barcelo Cardiff Angel Hotel
Day 8: Cardiff
Your Small Group Tour ends this afternoon upon arrival in Cardiff at approximately 5.30pm. Bid farewell to your Guide and fellow travellers as you close the chapter on this part of your travels.
Accommodation: Barcelo Cardiff Angel (4*) The Barceló Cardiff Angel Hotel (4*) is right in the centre of fabulous Cardiff. Cardiff is a fascinating city. From the recent opening of the Wales Millennium Centre to being nominated as a centre of cultural excellence, the city is thriving. The Barceló Cardiff Angel Hotel has stood the test of time and been a favourite in Cardiff long before it became the capital, so it’s a great place to be to explore the whole of this vibrant city.
Day 9: Cardiff
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- Radisson Blu
Radisson Blu (4*) - Cardiff
The Radisson Blu Hotel (4*) is located in the city centre of Cardiff and affords guests access to exciting attractions, thriving commercial districts and lively nightlife. Sporting a stunning glass and metal exterior and streamlined décor, this premier accommodation boasts modern design inside and out. 215 rooms and suites at this Cardiff hotel feature bold design, city views and high-quality amenities. The Filini Restaurant offers innovative Italian cuisine served in a contemporary atmosphere.
The Bear Hotel
The Bear Hotel (B) or similar
Welcome to The Bear, a hotel famous far and wide for its welcoming atmosphere, historic character, convivial surroundings and good food. A cobbled forecourt, archway into the inner courtyard and 19th-century stagecoach timetable in the bar are all reminders of the Bear's former role. Set in the heart of The Brecon Beacons National Park, one of Britains most beautiful wilderness areas, you'll find some of the finest walks in Britain with the Beacons themselves and The Black Mountains right on your doorstep.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
- Castle Hotel
Castle Hotel (B) or similar
The Castle Hotel, an old coaching inn, stands on the site of a Cistercian abbey and used to consist of two famous hostelries, The Castle and the 15th Century King's Head. The Castle was by far the larger and in Victorian times has had an attractive face lift of local granite and Ruabon brick and is now one of Conwy's most photographed buildings. The hotels 28 bedrooms to AA and Visit Wales exacting 4 Star Town House standards with a 'boutiquey' feel. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, including the newly improved Dawsons Bar and new Courtyard.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
- The Falcondale Hotel
Room
The Falcondale Hotel (B) or similar
The Falcondale hotel and 2AA rosette restaurant (awarded for 5 consecutive years) located near the University town of Lampeter, now known as University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Only 30 minutes from the coastal villages of Cardigan Bay and hilly, marshy regions of the Cambrian Mountains. The Falcondale was built and designed as a private house in 1859, which means that all of their elegant and luxurious rooms do vary in size, shape and outlook. Dining at the Falcondale in a relaxed award-winning restaurant offering the best of seasonal local produce with a well stocked wine list to compliment. Falcondale - quite simply a warm west wales welcome, fantastic food, great atmosphere, and peaceful surroundings.
Please note that your hotel may be the above or a hotel of similar standard and will be confirmed prior to departure.
- Barcelo Cardiff Angel Hotel
Barcelo Cardiff Angel (4*) - Cardiff
The Barceló Cardiff Angel Hotel (4*) is right in the centre of fabulous Cardiff. Cardiff is a fascinating city. From the recent opening of the Wales Millennium Centre to being nominated as a centre of cultural excellence, the city is thriving. The Barceló Cardiff Angel Hotel has stood the test of time and been a favourite in Cardiff long before it became the capital, so it’s a great place to be to explore the whole of this vibrant city.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Wales
VISA/PASSPORT
Wales is one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom.It has the same immigration and visa requirements as the rest of the UK. U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 6 months for tourist purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa that can be obtained from the British Embassy, High Commission or Consulate where the applicant legally resides. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore its best that you check with the British Embassy for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/united-kingdom.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Cardiff
Government: Constitutional monarchy.
Language: Thre official languages are Welsh and English
Religion: Predominantly Christian and Roman Catholic. Islam is the largest non-Christian religion. There are sizable Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jewish minorities. Time: GMT (UTC0)
Electricity: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +44.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone operators. Coverage is mostly good, but can be patchy in rural areas.
Internet: There are Internet cafes and centers in most urban areas.
What's Included:
- Independent/Private Trip Portion: Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
Small Group Trip Portion: 6 nights in charming & distinctive accommodation - Driver/Guide companion - Mercedes mini-coach transportation - Full English breakfast daily - Evening meals x 3, lunch x 1 - Early supper experience at Cefn Park “Victorian Kitchen” - Welsh whisky tour - Visit to a Welsh vineyard - Welsh language lesson and tea - Trip on a narrow gauge steam railway. Entrance Fees Included: St Fagans National History Museum, Big Pit National Coal Museum, Caerleon Roman Baths and Museum, Abbey Cwm Hir Hall Gardens, Caernarfon Castle, National Slate Museum, Llanberis, Harlech Castle, Dylan Thomas Boathouse.
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client. Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes. Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
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