The spirit and independence of Wales is indentified in the National flag which boldly displays The Red Dragon on its green and white background…this flag could possibly be the oldest national flag still used today. But more importantly it represents the heraldic origins of this proud country which date back to Roman times from where it is thought the red dragon arose and was adopted by the Welsh speaking people… but also made a claim for their own individuality and this has been further identified by the National Assembly for Wales. This government sits in the 'newest capital city of Europe', but Cardiff stands well with its older counterparts… with its Welsh traditions blending well with the modern European culture. The magnificent Cardiff Bay, the tremendous Millennium Centre, its sporting arenas and its vibrant nightlife… Wales is a country steeped in history, but being European with its future prospects and dreams.
The Welsh Valleys that were once the work horse of Wales with heavy industry dictating their use but today are being reclaimed to provide the natural habitat of previous generations… but still retaining illustrations of its industrial period in the shape of refurbished buildings now put to benefit of tourism. The northern and central regions of Wales are mainly composed of mountains with the mighty Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons merging into the Cambrian Mountains providing spectacular scenery… along with many sporting and leisure activities for all to enjoy. There are three National Parks to be enjoyed in Wales being Snowdonia N.P., Brecon Beacons N.P. and the Pembrokeshire Coast N.P… which is also home to part of the Heritage Coastline that sweeps round the Welsh coast. There are four Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty to be appreciated at Anglesey, Wye Valley, the Clwydian Range and the Gower Peninsula… which was the first area to ever be designated with the award.
The coastline of Wales offers a tremendous variety of landscape with its dramatic cliffs towering above the bays that wash its shoreline offering protection to its sandy sheltered cove sand beaches… and offering beautiful cliff top walks overlooking the blue waters and amongst scenic countryside. The beaches are great for the family holiday and for those who just want a relaxing break just lying on the golden sand and breathing the fresh sea air……only the cry of the seagulls breaking the silence. The coastal resorts are to be discovered everywhere and all offer their own special attractions to enable the holiday to be a very happy occasion… whether it’s the blue flag beach that attracts or the safe bathing or the great water sports to be enjoyed or perhaps just to sit on the headland watching the many yachts sail by. Sailing is a popular sport in these waters as is diving due to the tremendous number of ship wrecks that lie on the sea floor….but on the surface of the sea can be found basking sharks, seals, turtles and dolphins at play.
Wales is a lovely country to holiday as it provides great accommodation to suite every taste from the five star hotels in Cardiff and some major seaside resorts to the fun camping and caravan sites that are easily found in many locations….and in between hotels, bed and breakfast, holiday complexes and self contained accommodation. The restaurants and cafes provide a wide variety of food from traditional Welsh to the continental cuisine of Europe. Wales is here to be discovered with its festivals and Welsh heritage blending with an exciting future as Cardiff makes its mark in Europe…but there is only one way to discover the true beauty that is Wales!