3 Best Sights in Wales

Holyhead's most dramatic vistas surround this 91-foot lighthouse, built in 1809 and set on an island off the west coast of town. The building is open to any visitor willing to descend 400 steps down the cliff face (and later back up) before crossing a footbridge over the chasm separating it from the mainland. Once on the island, linger on the stupendous views of the sea and watch for dolphins or step into the lighthouse to see an exhibition of its history and climb to the top with guides.

At the northern end of the beach promenade, Constitution Hill dominates the skyline. From the top you can see much of the Welsh coastline (and, on exceptionally clear days, Ireland). There's a small café at the top and plenty of space for a picnic. If you're feeling hale and hearty, there's a long footpath that zigzags up to the 430-foot summit. From there, a 5-mile-long coastal path stretches to the village of Borth, a smaller, sleepier resort north of Aberystwyth where the remains of a 3,000-year-old petrified forest may be seen on the beach at low tide.

Named for the Norse word meaning "sea monster," the 679-foot headland called Great Orme towers over Llandudno, affording extraordinary views over the bay. The Llandudno Cable Car (North Parade) zips you 1 mile to the top of Great Orme. At the summit there's a visitor center (Easter through October only), an artificial ski slope, and a toboggan run. The most picturesque way to reach the summit is the Great Orme Tramway (Victoria Station, Church Walks). Trips depart about every 20 minutes. The summit is a sylvan spot, with open grassland, fields of wildflowers, and rare butterflies. Also look out for a wild herd of Kashmir goats.