Enjoy the scenery of coastal Wales on this mostly panoramic half-day tour that takes you around the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn in Welsh), which has a rich history passed on from its Viking, Celtic and Medieval settlers.
Boarding your coach, you'll first head for the very western point of the Isle where you will see the tiny islet known as South Stack. Separated from Holyhead Island by 30 meters of turbulent sea, it features a glorious lighthouse designed to allow safe passage for ships on the treacherous Dublin - Holyhead - Liverpool sea route. The cliffs at South Stack are home to over 4,000 seabirds that nest here during the summer and from your lookout point, you'll have the opportunity to perhaps spot puffins, fulmars, guillemots and razorbills.
From here, your drive continues south along the coast road, passing through Aberffraw which between the 7th and 13th centuries was the capital of North Wales and home to the Princes of Gwynedd. Next, it's on through the village of Newborough (time permitting stops for photographs will be made). Before long, you'll arrive in the town with the longest name in the world: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwll-llantysiliogogogoch. This long name actually means, 'The Church of St. Mary in the hollow of the white hazel near the rapid whirlpool and the church of St Tysilio near a red cave'. The name is usually shortened to Llanfairpwll, or Llanfair PG by the locals. The extended name is almost probably the work of a local tailor who wanted to put the village on the map in the mid 1800's. One of Llanfairpwll's unusual claims to fame is that the Women's Institute movement was founded here in 1915. The now disused railway station still bears the longest name in the world and has been converted to a tourist attraction housing a good quality Woolen shop and souvenir center. Some free time will be afforded here to stroll around before continuing on your way.
From Llanfairpwll, you'll drive along the Menai Strait and through the picturesque town of Beaumaris where you will have an outside view of Beaumaris Castle. This stunningly beautiful World Heritage Site castle was the last and largest of the castles to be built by King Edward I in Wales. Continuing along the coastal road, you'll pass through the most northerly village in Wales, Cemaes, which is set on Anglesey's wildest and most unspoiled stretch of coastline, before heading back in a southerly direction to Holyhead.
Please note: Walking on this tour is at the guest's discretion. There is a steep incline to negotiate from the coach to the viewing area at South Stack. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. Those guests with mobility concerns are cautioned only to participate to the extent of their personal stamina and ability. Layered, weather appropriate clothing and flat, comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Guests should be prepared for the possibility of rain. The order of the sites viewed or visited may vary.