Wales off the beaten track

We all know what tourist places are like. They have become tourist destinations, because of the stunning scenery or the bustling town during the day or even at night. At Easicampers we understand why people do not want to visit those places all the time and would much prefer a gorgeous holiday away from the maddening crowd.

Exploring Wales by campervan is a fantastic way to experience its natural beauty, historical sites, and hidden gems. Here are 20 lesser-known spots off the beaten track to explore in Wales, perfect for a campervan trip. Plus, I’ve included some campervan and motorhome hire options in Wigan, Preston, Blackburn, and Wolverhampton.

1. Elan Valley

  • Why visit? Stunning reservoirs surrounded by scenic walking and biking trails.
  • Highlight: Dramatic dams and wildlife.

2. Pistyll Rhaeadr

  • Why visit? One of the tallest waterfalls in the UK.
  • Highlight: A serene spot for peaceful hiking.

3. Aberdaron and the Llyn Peninsula

  • Why visit? Quiet coastal villages and rugged beauty.
  • Highlight: Porth Iago beach, a secluded cove with white sands.

4. Llanthony Priory

  • Why visit? An ancient ruined priory in the Black Mountains.
  • Highlight: Peaceful and remote, great for stargazing.

5. Dinas Island

  • Why visit? A small peninsula offering quiet walking paths.
  • Highlight: Coastal views and wildlife spotting.

6. Harlech Sand Dunes

  • Why visit? Underrated spot near the famous Harlech Castle.
  • Highlight: Sandy beaches with dramatic mountain views.

7. Porthgain

  • Why visit? A tiny, historic harbour town with ruins of old industrial buildings.
  • Highlight: The Sloop Inn for a cozy pub lunch after coastal walks.

8. Strumble Head Lighthouse

  • Why visit? A quiet headland with a lighthouse and dolphin-watching opportunities.
  • Highlight: Stunning sunsets and starry skies.

9. Ynyslas Nature Reserve

  • Why visit? Sweeping sand dunes and salt marshes along the Dyfi Estuary.
  • Highlight: Birdwatching and peaceful walks.

10. Llyn Brianne Reservoir

  • Why visit? A hidden reservoir in the Cambrian Mountains.
  • Highlight: Secluded picnic spots with panoramic views.

11. Aberglasney Gardens

  • Why visit? A restored 16th-century garden, much quieter than its cousin Bodnant Gardens.
  • Highlight: Serene and tranquil with hidden paths.

12. Gower Peninsula’s Rhossili Downs

  • Why visit? Dramatic cliff walks with few crowds.
  • Highlight: Expansive coastal views over Rhossili Beach.

13. Mwnt Beach

  • Why visit? A secluded beach with a picturesque chapel.
  • Highlight: Peaceful with great dolphin-spotting potential.

14. Dolgoch Falls

  • Why visit? A series of small waterfalls in a quiet, wooded gorge.
  • Highlight: Hidden and peaceful, ideal for a short hike.

15. Ceibwr Bay

  • Why visit? A remote, rocky bay with dramatic cliffs.
  • Highlight: Lesser-known and great for wildlife photography.

16. Cwm Idwal

  • Why visit? A hidden glacial valley in Snowdonia National Park.
  • Highlight: Ideal for peaceful hiking away from the main crowds.

17. Bwlch y Groes

  • Why visit? Wales’ highest pass, offering epic mountain views.
  • Highlight: Rugged landscapes with few tourists.

18. Ty Canol Wood

  • Why visit? One of the oldest woodlands in Wales, near the Pembrokeshire coast.
  • Highlight: Ancient oaks and peaceful woodland walks.

19. Gwydir Forest

  • Why visit? A quiet forest area with hidden lakes.
  • Highlight: Ideal for off-the-beaten-track forest walks and nature spotting.

20. Lake Vyrnwy

  • Why visit? A peaceful reservoir surrounded by forests and mountains.
  • Highlight: Tranquil setting with birdwatching and quiet walks.

Campervan & Motorhome Hire Options

Here are some rental options in and around Wigan, Preston, Blackburn, and Wolverhampton:

  1. Easicampers (Wigan)
    • Offers a variety of motorhomes and campervans with flexible hire options.
    • Website: Easicampers
  2. Campervan hire (Preston)
    • Fabulous service with a range of campervans and motorhomes.
  3. Motorhomes (Blackburn)
    • Reliable campervan hire with five flexible pick-up locations.
  4. Campervan & Motorhome Hire (Wolverhampton)
    • Well-equipped motorhomes, ideally located for breaks around South Wales.

With these places and hire options, you’re set for an unforgettable Welsh adventure!

Photo: Llyn Tegid, Bala.