Wales may not be the biggest country in the UK, but it sure does pack a lot of charm. There are so many different towns to explore within Wales, each with its uniqueness and beauty waiting to be discovered.
Whether you're looking for a solo holiday, an adults-only getaway, or an all-inclusive package for the whole family, our selection of holiday providers has you covered. Click below to start your holiday search!
Which Welsh towns offer holiday cottages?
You can find holiday cottages across most towns in Wales. We’ve compiled a list of some of the most well-known Welsh towns (and some hidden gems) that make the perfect location for a minibreak.
Pembrokeshire
Home to the UK's only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire is known for its remarkable scenery. With nowhere in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park being more than ten miles from the sea, there are plenty of opportunities to find a cottage with a sea view.
Snowdonia
If you are looking for a little bit of everything, Snowdonia is the town for you. With captivating snowy peaks (such as Snowdon Mountain), charming villages and long stretches of beaches, it is no wonder that Snowdonia is one of the most popular areas. Home to both Wales’ highest mountain and largest lake within Snowdonia National Park, staying in a holiday cottage here provides you with a breath of fresh air.
Brecon Beacons
The Brecon Beacons National Park covers an incredible 520 square miles of South and Mid Wales. That, coupled with the rolling mountain ranges, open valleys and hillsides, makes the Brecon Beacons the perfect nature getaway. Booking a holiday cottage in this spectacular town means seeing plenty of wildly breath-taking forests, lakes, waterfalls and caves.
Carmarthenshire
Look no further than the charming town of Carmarthenshire for a magical and romantic getaway. You can feel the magic with the many captivating castles, including Llansteffan Castle, Laugharne Castle, and Kidwelly Castle. What’s more, one of Carmarthen's most famous early residents was Merlin the Magician. With excellent walking and cycling paths for all abilities and active communities of artisans making and selling all sorts of exciting things, you'll never run out of things to do or places to go in a holiday cottage here.
Wye Valley
The Wye Valley is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that sits across the England/Wales border. It is home to some of the most incredible views with its dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife. You can find the 4th longest river in the UK, the River Wye, and enjoy the cascade of the serene Cleddon Falls. So if you are searching for a rural retreat holiday cottage, Wye Valley is the place to go.
Anglesey
Anglesey is an island in Wales, off the mainland's northwest coast. It is mainly known for its incredible beaches, rich historical sites and being the 'breadbasket of Wales' thanks to its abundant fertile land. You can see the remains of many a windmill across the island or visit many other monuments, such as the Beaumaris Castle and Plas Newydd House and Gardens. One thing is for sure, a holiday cottage here would take you a step back in time in a whirlwind of sea and sand.
Southwest of the Isle of Anglesey, you can find the picturesque town of Llŷn Peninsula. This town is also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and boasts a rich history, stunning beaches and plentiful wildlife.
North Wales
North Wales has many smaller towns, including Llandudno, Conwy, Portmeirion and Betws-y-Coed. No matter which town in the gorgeous countryside of North Wales you choose, you'll be able to find a fantastic holiday cottage. All the towns boast incredible views, historical sites, and wonderful wildlife to enjoy. You can also find great spots to eat and drink, such as the Somerset Hotel Coffee Shop & Bar in Llandudno.
Mid Wales
Within the heart of Wales are pretty villages, outstanding countryside and striking mountains. You'll find many beautiful holiday cottages across the towns of mid Wales, including Montgomery, Newton, Barmouth and Welshpool. So whether you are looking for something secluded and private or something in the hustle and bustle of the village, Mid Wales can provide you with the gem you've been searching for.
South Wales
From the city life of Cardiff to the tranquillity of the Gower Peninsula, South Wales holidays mean you don't have to choose between town and country life. Instead, you can have the best of both worlds with the added ability to enjoy the nearby coast. By booking a holiday cottage in South Wales, you can enjoy historical sites such as Old Beaupre Castle and breathtaking beaches such as those found in the Gower Peninsula Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
What is the difference between a holiday home and a cottage?
A holiday cottage is usually a small, cosy house in rural or semi-rural areas.
Cottages can sometimes be listed as heritage buildings if they are old. One example is The Old Post Office in Snowdonia, a Grade II listed building offering a homey portal into North Wales. Or Heol Llygoden Cottage in Powys, built in the 18th century and providing you direct access to the Black Mountains.
You can also find modern cottages, typically recognised as modest buildings in rural locations, if you are after something a little more contemporary. For example, the Sunken Treasure Cottage in Conwy comes complete with a private hot tub!
A holiday home is any accommodation rented for a holiday. The types of accommodation vary greatly, from mansions to chalets to log cabins and can be narrowed down based on your preferences and needs.
Many people find a cottage provides the perfect stay for a cosy getaway in Wales. This is because they are family-friendly and give you complete freedom. In addition, most cottages are self-catering, so you can always cook and eat at a time that suits you.
Countless pet-friendly and dog-friendly cottages exist, so the whole family can enjoy the getaway without leaving your furry friends behind.
What things can I see and do in Wales?
The list is endless! Wales is a land full of beautiful contrast and encompasses stunning countryside, broad valleys, rolling mountains, and long beaches. Watching the sun set behind glorious mountains at the end of a fun beach day with ice cream - what could be better? Take a look at this coastal cottage which is only 2 miles away from the Ceredigion coastal path and offers you a chance to explore Cardigan Bay.
Wales also offers a wide range of charming towns with local shopkeepers that sell beautiful souvenirs of your trip and many tasty eateries, bars and pubs that provide a new twist on nightlife.
Booking a holiday cottage offers excellent flexibility in terms of location and price, so you can be as close as you want to your favourite village or beach.
