Luxury itinerary featuring Travel Trade friendly products

Whether your clients arrive at one of the key gateway airports or are continuing their travels from other parts of the UK, they can sit back and relax on the transfer to Wales by private luxury vehicle complete with a driver guide. On arrival at the 5-star Celtic Manor Resort near Newport, the concierge will meet the guests and escort to their deluxe Signature Collection accommodation. 

This afternoon they either sit back and relax and enjoy the hotel and its extensive grounds or visit the nearby Roman town of Caerleon. The amphitheatre is the most complete Roman amphitheatre in Britain and the driver guide can explain the gladiatorial combats with exotic wild animals that took place here from around AD90 with up to 6,000 spectators. Legend also states that Arthur was crowned here and the amphitheatre is the remains of King Arthur’s Round Table. There's also Caerleon Roman Fortress & Baths and National Roman Legion Museum to visit here.

If your clients are arriving later, there is also the option to take the 17:48 London Paddington train to South Wales with Pullman Dining services (check latest timetable). The experience can be booked online with a First Class ticket.

Dinner suggestion: Steak on Six, Celtic Manor's 2AA Rosette award-winning restaurant.

The resort offers three championships golf courses including the Twenty Ten Course, home of the 2010 Ryder Cup and the first in history to be designed specifically to host The Ryder Cup. The spectacular course includes many exciting tests of strategy and the Twenty Ten Clubhouse makes an impression with its panorama of the course and overlooks the 18th hole from a private balcony.

Lunch: Rafters Restaurant, Twenty Ten Clubhouse 

After a round of golf it’s now time to truly relax with a pampering treat at the award-winning Forum Spa. Your clients can escape to a tranquil haven and feel their stresses ease away as they relax and unwind in a sanctuary of serenity.

Dinner: in another one of the gourmet restaurants at Celtic Manor.

Continue to Cardiff and discover 2,000 years of history at Cardiff Castle, located in the city centre.

Take a connoisseur tour (by prior arrangement), it’s a 90 min exclusive tour with your own guide which includes the Castle Apartments and spectacular rooms in the Clock Tower (2-8 people).

Afterwards, enjoy a private ‘Loving Welsh Food Tour’. Experience Welsh food and drink while exploring and learning about the capital city. Siân offers a variety of options such as the Cardiff Lunch & Landmarks tour and can also create a bespoke tour depending on your client’s interests.

Luxurious accommodation choices tonight include the Parkgate Hotel in the city centre, overlooking The Principality Stadium or voco® St David’s Cardiff overlooking Cardiff Bay.

Dinner suggestion: Thomas by Tom Simmons, an intriguing mix influenced by British and French cuisine and inspired by a life lived in Pembrokeshire.

Take a private tour at The Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant, the only mint in the world where coins for the UK and 60 other countries are produced. Their ‘Key To The Mint Package’ includes a guided tour, guided exhibition tour, strike your own coin, a cream tea and meet with one of their curators (duration 3hr).

They also offer VIP tours which allows your clients to meet the experts, enter the factory floor where the coins are made and experience the Tool Room, (up to 8 pax). This tour takes place from 09:00 until 16:00 and therefore a Hensol Gin Distillery experience wouldn’t be possible or re-arranged depending on your client’s preferences.

Lunch suggestion: Forage Farm Shop & Kitchen, winners of Welsh Farmshop of the Year 2024. A wide-ranging lunch menu with the majority of ingredients locally sourced including the Penllyn Estate Farm.

This afternoon, take a 3hr gin making experience and tasting at Hensol Castle Distillery, housed in the cellars of the spectacular historic Grade 1 listed building, Hensol Castle, surrounded by landscaped grounds.

Your clients will discover the history of the castle and create their own bespoke 70cl bottle of gin with their choice of botanicals. The experience ends in the bar with a gin and tonic. 

There is also the option to include afternoon tea as part of the experience.

Overnight accommodation: As day three, with dinner at hotel.

Private cookery class with Abergavenny Baker or bespoke perfume making workshop at Wales Perfumery.

Abergavenny Baker Cookery School can be found in the centre of the quaint market town famous for its annual food festival in September. They offer groups of 6-10 pax informal baking classes and cookery classes including British, French, Italian, Middle Eastern themes and breads which can be tailored to your clients request. Bespoke classes can be arranged from Thursday to Sunday. Lunch, wine and refreshments can be provided.

Alternatively, travel to Monmouth, the town is well known for its 13th century gatehouse bridge and its connections to Henry V, Geoffrey of Monmouth. Bands such as Oasis, Queen and Simple Minds have recorded hits at the nearby Rockfield Studios. Wales Perfumery is Wales’ only Perfume House based in Monmouth and the workshops focuses on Welsh landscapes and heritage. Your clients will create their own personalised 30ml bottle of perfume in the lab overlooking the secret walled garden (up to 15 Pax). Workshop duration is 1hr 15mins and tea, coffee, and Welshcakes are provided. 

Afterwards, sample an award-winning luxury afternoon tea at the Angel Hotel Abergavenny (available from Thursday to Sunday). It is the holder of The British Tea Guild Council’s Top City and Country Afternoon Tea Award and The Award of Excellence.

Overnight accommodation: Angel Hotel
Dinner: at the hotel or at their sister venue The Walnut Tree, a Michelin Star restaurant.

This evening, option to enjoy a bespoke dark sky experience with Dark Sky Wales. Wales is one of the top destinations for stargazing as it has some of the darkest skies in Europe and the highest percentage of land protected by Dark Skies status in the world.

A scenic drive through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park.

Visit Castell Carreg Cennen (Carreg Cennen Castle), a hidden gem, which was voted the most romantic ruin in Wales by readers of Countryfile magazine. Carreg Cennen translates as ‘castle on the rock’, it sits on a dramatic clifftop with panoramic views of the Carmarthenshire countryside. This castle is unique as it has a hidden underground cave which you can access from a vaulted passageway. A torch is provided to help you through the dark tunnel.

This afternoon, your diver guide will take your clients to The British Bird of Prey Centre at the National Botanic Garden of Wales and it is the only place in Wales to see a Golden Eagle and White-tailed Sea Eagle flying. Choose from five private flying experiences for a truly immersive experience including owl encounter, hawk walk, half day flying four iconic British birds, photography experience and eagle experience.

Overnight accommodation: Grove of Narberth (Michelin Key hotel)
Dinner options: Grove of Narberth (tasting menu) or Annwn

This morning, relax and take time to wander around the market town of Narberth with its pastel-coloured 19th and early 20th century buildings. It has developed quite a reputation for shopping with antique shops and independent shops selling a whole range of exquisite items from fine art to fine food, jewellery, arts, crafts, galleries, homeware and gifts.

Continue to Pembroke to take a private guided tour of Pembroke Castle, birthplace of King Henry VII and the Tudor dynasty. The 13th century castle is one of the most impressive of the Norman castles built in Wales and is the largest and most complete in Britain. It is dominated by a five storey keep with great views from the top. There is a subterranean cave under the castle, Wogan’s Cave, and a medieval gaol can be found inside the dungeon tower, one of the few remaining.

Free time to explore St Davids, Britain’s smallest city. It’s not much bigger than a village but there are plenty of independent shops and galleries to browse. The 12th century St Davids Cathedral was founded by St David, the patron Saint of Wales. St Davids Bishop's Palace is also on site. MamGu Welshcakes (mamgu is the Welsh word for grandmother) is based in the cathedral’s refectory found in the ruins of St Marys Chapel. As well as serving their famous MamGu Welshcakes they also offer other traditional Welsh dishes with a twist.

Visit Oriel y Parc, a landscape gallery located in the national parks’ visitor centre. It is a great place to learn more about the area and it holds a fantastic collection of Graham Sutherland paintings, inspired by the Pembrokeshire landscape.

Depending on time, lunch can be in Narberth or St Davids as both have plenty of options.

Dinner suggestions: Blas Restaurant at Twr y Felin Hotel, Y Gegin at St Davids Distillery, Really Wild Restaurant (tasting menu)

This morning your clients can either visit Melin Tregwynt or experience an unique e-bike ride with Hidden Routes.

Melin Tregwynt, is a white-washed woollen mill located in a rural area of the Pembrokeshire coast. It has been in operation since 1841 and produces Welsh woollen blankets and throws, cushions, clothing, bags and accessories. They sell their blankets all over the world. Your clients can watch the weaving process and purchase items in the shop.

Half day e-mountain bike adventure with Hidden Routes which can include a tour on Barony private land taking a trail over Carningli Mountain.

Lunch suggestion: Llys Meddyg, Newport

This afternoon your clients can experience the Dreamcatcher, a private dolphin and wildlife spotting boat trip with Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips, departing from the pier in the picturesque seaside town of New Quay. It is suitable for up to 12 pax and options include 1hr to 4hr trips. As well as spotting seabirds, seals and dolphins your skipper and crew will share stories of local history and legends.

Overnight accommodation and dinner: Y Talbot 

Travel to Palé Hall. There are a number of options for today. Palé Hall can arrange a choice of activities for your clients including:

• clay pigeon shooting - guests can enjoy expert-led clay pigeon shooting on the hotel grounds;
• private estate tours - explore Palé Hall’s historic grounds with a guided tour;
• luxury car tours and rally experiences - high-end car rally experiences featuring iconic British vehicles like Aston Martins and Bentleys through scenic routes in Snowdonia;
• helicopter tours - a private helicopter tour over Snowdonia, offering stunning views of the mountains and castles;
• falconry experience - a traditional falconry session on the estate with expert handlers;
• scenic mountain drives - chauffeur-driven or self-drive experiences through Snowdonia’s picturesque landscapes;
• private yacht charter - sail along the North Wales coast with a luxury yacht charter from nearby Conwy;
• historic castle tours - private tours of nearby iconic castles like Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle);
• luxury picnics - gourmet picnics prepared by Palé Hall’s chefs in a secluded countryside setting;
• fishing on the River Dee - fly-fishing experiences on the nearby River Dee;
• golf at championship courses - play at prestigious golf courses like Abersoch Golf Club;
• horseback riding - guided horseback rides in the Welsh countryside;
• private yoga and wellness sessions - personalised wellness experiences, including private yoga and massage;
• personal shopping experiences - exclusive shopping trips or appointments with personal shoppers;
• cultural immersion in Llangollen - cultural experiences, including traditional crafts and market visits.

Overnight accommodation and dinner at Palé Hall (Michelin Key hotel and Green Michelin Star for its commitment to sustainable practices, which include having its own clean, completely carbon-neutral source of electricity).

The hotel has a fascinating history and guests include Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill - both have suites named after them.

It has a 3 AA Rosette fine dining restaurant. Bespoke gourmet meals can be tailored for Halal preferences. 

Travel in luxury on a first-class journey with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway (the oldest independent railway company in the world) from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Minffordd. Your clients can enjoy the scenery in comfort in their luxury Pullman carriages (approx. 1hr). There’s exceptional service with the choice of a cream tea or picnic basket as an optional extra. Please check directly for first-class availability on chosen dates.

Alight at Minffordd where your clients will be met by their driver guide to continue to Portmeirion. This unique Italianate style village was created by Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and made famous by the TV series, The Prisoner. It was where George Harrison from The Beatles celebrated his 50th birthday and where Noel Coward wrote the play 'Blithe Spirit’. A private guided tour of the fantasy village can be arranged to help your clients to discover the beautiful woodland gardens and shops. The village also includes a hotel, restaurants and cafes.

Overnight accommodation and dinner: Hotel Portmeirion 

Visit Castell Caernarfon (Caernarfon Castle) for a private guided tour. An impressive 13th century castle built by King Edward I that now has UNESCO World Heritage Status. This is where King Charles III was invested as the Prince of Wales in 1969.

Alternatively take a boat trip with Rib Ride or Seawake. Both offer private chartered trips for a duration of 1 hour. Seawake departs from Beaumaris Pier and Rib Ride departs from Menai Bridge.

Visit Wild Seaweed Baths by Halen Môn for a unique outdoor bathing experience. A 45min seaweed soak detox in a private upcycled whiskey barrel with stunning panoramic views towards Caernarfon and Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park.

There is also the option of including a 60min behind the scenes tour and salt tasting of the saltcote at Halen Môn Visitor Centre. There is an opportunity to purchase products from the shop before departing.

Lunch suggestions:
The Bull's Head Inn, Beaumaris
Dylan’s Restaurant, Menai Bridge

Overnight accommodation and dinner: Bodysgallen Hall & Spa.

This morning, experience a unique private immersive Rhigar Farm tour near Llanfairfechan to watch a 1hr 30min sheepdog demonstration but it can be extended to 3hr if your clients would like to include a visit to Carneddau Mountains to lookout for the rare Carneddau Mountain ponies. Your clients will discover farming traditions and learn about the heritage and culture of the area.

Lunch suggestions in Conwy:
The Jackdaw (Friday and Saturday only)
Telfords Bistro (Wednesday -Sunday only)
The Castle Hotel

Afterwards your guide can lead a tour of the historic town of Conwy which is dominated by its UNESCO Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) and town walls with 22 towers. A walk by the quayside will take your clients to the smallest house in Britain. Conwy has a wide range of independent shops and plenty of bars and cafes too.

To finish the day, take a distillery masterclass at Penderyn Llandudno Lloyd Street Distillery, perfect for whisky enthusiasts. It offers an in-depth look at how their award-winning single malt Welsh whisky is made whilst having fun learning whisky tasting practices. Their gins, whiskies and other products can be purchased in the shop before departure.

Dinner: Dylan’s Restaurant, Llandudno can offer a bespoke evening for your clients with a menu featuring local produce and options to meet suppliers, all with a story to tell. They can also offer bespoke workshops.

Overnight accommodation: as day eleven

A scenic drive through the Vale of Clwyd to the historic market town of Ruthin. There are a variety of independent shops including the contemporary art gallery at Ruthin Craft Centre.

Visit Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, known as ‘The Stream in the Sky’. The aqueduct is the largest in Britain and was designed by Thomas Telford between 1795-1805 and stands 38.4 metres (126 ft) high and 307 metres (1007 ft) long. Your clients can walk along the aqueduct, once included in TripAdvisor’s 10 heat-pumping places to visit. A camera is recommended. There is also an option to take a 45min boat trip on across the aqueduct on ‘Seren Fach’ (meaning little star in English) with Anglo Welsh Waterways Holidays between 11:00 and 15:30.

Depart to Manchester Airport or onward destination.