Driving Through North Wales

One of the most exciting areas to explore in the UK. With twisting turns, rises and falls in elevation and endless green landscapes, the roads snake their way and just keep on going. This road trip is an example of what New Roads can create for you.

Day-by-Day Plan

Day 1

Bristol → Elan Valley (Craig Goch Dam)

Drive time: ~4 hrs (250 km) via A40/M50 into Mid‑Wales.

Route highlight: Elan Valley loop (passes Caban Coch, Garreg‑ddu, Pen‑y‑Garreg and culminates at Craig Goch Dam) – rated as one of the best driving roads in Wales

Activity: Stop at Elan Valley Visitor Centre, walk to Craig Goch Dam, optional light hiking or cycling on nearby bridleway

Hotel Options Nearby (e.g., in Rhayader area):

  1. The Wynnstay Arms Hotel (Wrexham route diversion, historic Georgian inn, 47 rooms)
  2. Pale Hall Hotel in Bala – elegant Victorian house with country comfort, breakfast included
Day 2

Bristol → Elan Valley (Craig Goch Dam)

Drive time: ~4 hrs (250 km) via A40/M50 into Mid‑Wales.

Route highlight: Elan Valley loop (passes Caban Coch, Garreg‑ddu, Pen‑y‑Garreg and culminates at Craig Goch Dam) – rated as one of the best driving roads in Wales

Activity: Stop at Elan Valley Visitor Centre, walk to Craig Goch Dam, optional light hiking or cycling on nearby bridleway

Hotel Options Nearby (e.g., in Rhayader area):

  1. The Wynnstay Arms Hotel (Wrexham route diversion, historic Georgian inn, 47 rooms)
  2. Pale Hall Hotel in Bala – elegant Victorian house with country comfort, breakfast included
Day 3

Bristol → Elan Valley (Craig Goch Dam)

Drive time: ~4 hrs (250 km) via A40/M50 into Mid‑Wales.

Route highlight: Elan Valley loop (passes Caban Coch, Garreg‑ddu, Pen‑y‑Garreg and culminates at Craig Goch Dam) – rated as one of the best driving roads in Wales

Activity: Stop at Elan Valley Visitor Centre, walk to Craig Goch Dam, optional light hiking or cycling on nearby bridleway

Hotel Options Nearby (e.g., in Rhayader area):

  1. The Wynnstay Arms Hotel (Wrexham route diversion, historic Georgian inn, 47 rooms)
  2. Pale Hall Hotel in Bala – elegant Victorian house with country comfort, breakfast included

Itinerary Summary Table

Day

From → To

Highlights

Night Hotel Choices

Day 1

Bristol → Elan Valley

Drive Dam Loop, Craig Goch Dam

The Wynnstay Arms / Pale HallThe Wynnstay Arms / Pale HallThe Wynnstay Arms / Pale HallThe Wynnstay Arms / Pale Hall

Day 2

Bristol → Elan Valley

Drive Dam Loop, Craig Goch Dam

The Wynnstay Arms / Pale Hall

Day 3

Bristol → Elan Valley

Drive Dam Loop, Craig Goch Dam

The Wynnstay Arms / Pale Hall