A HOW TO GUIDE from my first solo road trip through Wales…
I like to drive. Rolling along country roads with the windows down and the wind in my hair. The sun warming my skin through the morning haze. Strangers talking on the radio, fumbling for my favourite CDs, singing to my heart’s content.
I decided my September staycation was the time to try going solo through the Welsh rolling hills with nothing but sheep to stand in my way. Just my black Mini, my tent and me…. well and the radio of course.
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First I zoomed into South Wales on Google Maps and asked friends for their favourite spots. Then I booked into a few campsites and Wales was mine. Fire pit camping at the foothills of the Brecon Beacons and open fields on the clifftops of the Pembrokeshire Coast.
I took five days to explore from east to west. Even the drive itself was magical through winding tree tunnels and endless emerald fields. And at the end of each day, I got to climb into my tent among the fairy lights and huddle under the blankets.
Here is my rough guide on how to do a solo road trip through South Wales. I’ll go through what I did with must see recommendations, tips and tricks. Now buckle up!
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My Solo Road Trip through Wales
Day 1 – London/Cardiff/Brecon Beacons
From London to Wales, here we go. Pack up the car in the morning and begin the three/four hour drive to Cardiff. The main thing to see in the Welsh capital is its castle which is free to visit.
Park somewhere central and nip into the city to take a peak. I sat in the castle grounds with a hot chocolate in hand before continuing onto Brecon Beacons. But you could easily pack in a few more sights before returning to the road, especially if you are traveling solo.
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Brecon Beacons is full of cosy cabins, cottages and camping options. I pitched my tent at Open Fire Camping where I was greeted in the drizzle by owner Steve.
The campsite is essentially in Steve’s garden – a large area of land within the national park sandwiched between sheep fields and mountains. This makes the atmosphere remote yet friendly and perfect for the solo camper.
If you’re into basic camping, open fires and hilly views, I totally recommend this place. There is also a shower block on site.
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My Solo Road Trip through Wales
Day 2 – Brecon Beacons Waterfall Country
Armed with your paper map, set off for the Four Falls Walk. This spectacular hike takes you through the Brecon Beacons Waterfall Country. Expect woodland, rocky cliffs and waterfalls.
Set aside half a day to complete the five-mile hike. The circular trail is easy to follow thanks to numbered sign posts on route, making it ideal for solo hikers.
Parking costs £4 per day. Enter “Gwaun Hepste Four Falls Trail Car Park” into your SatNav and head through the Welsh valleys. At the entrance, you’ll find volunteers on hand to offer maps and advice.
I finished my day with a trip to the nearby Henrhyd Falls, just a 20 minute drive away. The waterfall is the tallest in southern Wales and the ‘home of Batman.’ You can also walk right underneath which is pretty cool.
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My Solo Road Trip through Wales
Day 3 – Mumbles/Three Cliffs/Rhossili Beach
On your journey towards the Pembrokeshire Coast, there are some world class beaches not to be missed.
Mumbles is a great place to start your day, just an hour’s drive south of the Beacons. Stroll along the prom and pick up some breakfast at this postcard town. You won’t be missing company as you sip on your coffee and take in the chocolate box scenery.
Return to your car by around midday to make the 20 minute drive onto Three Cliffs Bay.
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Now, Three Cliffs Bay was my favourite stop during my solo road trip through South Wales. If you take anything from this travel guide, make sure it’s this!
Prepare to be blown away as you walk down the sandy footpath and through the woodland onto this spectacular beach. Take a swim, walk under the cliff arches and climb the cliffs for an overview of this breathtaking spot. Watch out for the cows up there!
You’ll find £4 parking at a campsite just a street away from the entrance. Or park in the free public car park across the road by the church, like me.
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Last but not least is Rhossili Beach, the surfers’ paradise of Wales. This vast stretching beach is often voted among the top ten in Europe and even worldwide! That said, I would choose Three Cliffs above all else <3
Parking at a nearby campsite costs around £4-£5 and once again, your SatNav should lead you straight there.
There is not much on offer at Rhossili Beach in terms of food and drink so bring a packed lunch and watch out for the giant jelly fish. From here, your onward drive to the Pembrokeshire Coast is just under two hours.
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My Solo Road Trip through Wales
Day 4 – 5 – Pembrokeshire Coast
And for the grand finale. The Pembrokeshire Coast has some of the best beach walks in Wales. You’ll be spoilt for choice.
For a relaxed clifftop walk, hike from the Blue Lagoon to Abereiddi and have lunch at a traditional Welsh pub. The two-mile trail is safe and easy for the solo hiker. Kayaking, paddle boarding and cliff jumping is also on offer at this iconic spot. Go solo or tag onto a group.
Pembrokeshire is also bursting with charming villages. Hike from Tenby fishing village to Whitesands Beach or visit the beautiful cathedral at St Davids.
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I hope you’ve gained some takeaways from my ‘Solo Road Trip through South Wales’ guide.
Happy travelling and until next time,
