Begin your journey in Worcestershire, not far from the border between England and Wales, passing through lush, unspoilt countryside in this rural county.

Stay at The Elms Hotel & Spa, a boutique manor escape set in the picturesque Worcestershire countryside, with a botanical-themed spa.

Don’t miss the cultural hub of Hay-on-Wye, a book lover’s gem known for its annual Festival of Literature. Head deeper into this unique country to find the sandstone peaks of the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). On a clear night, you can see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas, and even meteor showers. It’s enough to make anyone starry-eyed. This is also a walker’s paradise – but if that’s not your thing, saddle up on a pony trek, or head off to explore on two wheels.

To the west, Pembrokeshire calls – with its coastal scenery and wildlife encounters. Undulating coast paths lead you to walk barefoot on soft sandy beaches, often in perfect isolation. Meet the local wildlife on the island of Skomer, with its unique Atlantic Puffin colony – just a short but exhilarating boat ride from the mainland. Refresh with a cold-water swim in former slate quarries if you’re feeling adventurous. These activities are not just for adrenaline junkies – try your hand at guided coasteering or a day of rock-hopping and cave exploring and meet the most unusual wild creatures along the way.

Stay at Grove of Narberth – a charming country house where you’ll find cosy bedrooms and outstanding, award-winning dining, nestled in the Pembrokeshire countryside.

Follow the cool Cambrian Coast north, from Cardigan Bay to the Llyn Peninsula, taking in epic sea views and picture-perfect coastal towns, set against a mountainous backdrop. Jump on a boat ride to explore the bay, where the UK’s largest pod of bottlenose dolphins are at play. Arrive in Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park – a sight to behold. Wales’s highest mountain summit beckons, whether you’re hiking to the peak or taking the mountain railway route. Water sports in mountain streams offer a different perspective on this Welsh icon, or a unique underground adventure with trampoline nets set in a disused mine tempts the more adventurous. For a slower pace of life, the village of Portmeirion transports you to another world of tropical gardens and quirky architecture.

Stay at Pale Hall – Sitting on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, this Grade II listed Victorian country house is encircled by an idyllic woodland garden rolling down to the banks of the river. Dine in the Henry Robertson Dining Room, awarded with a green star.

Winding down from the heights of Eryri (Snowdonia), explore the medieval town of Conwy with its impressive castle and town walls. No trip to Wales would be complete without a stroll along a traditional seaside promenade in Llandudno, with a classic ice cream in hand.

Stay at Bodysgallen Hall & Spa – You’ll see the chimneys of this romantic hall peeping through the trees of the surrounding parkland. Inside the hall, oak staircases and alcoves hint at the mysteries of its rich history.

In Wales you’ll often hear of ‘hiraeth’, the untranslatable word that binds the land and its people. It’s a feeling of nostalgia and longing for the green, green grass of home. Even if you’re not from Wales, you may well have a feeling of hiraeth when you leave, only to be satisfied when you return.