Top Reasons to Go to Wales

Castle country: Wales doesn't quite have a castle in each town, but there is a greater concentration than almost anywhere else in Europe—more than 600 in all.

The Gower Peninsula: This stretch of coastland near Swansea includes some of the region's prettiest beaches, as well as spectacular coastal views and medieval ruins.

Snowdonia: The biggest of the country's three national parks contains its highest mountain, Snowdon, as well as picture-perfect villages.

Brecon Beacons: Moorlands, mountains, and valleys make up this rough and wild stretch of the Welsh midlands, as popular with hikers as it is with those who are just happy to take in the stunning views from the road.

Hay-on-Wye: This pretty village on the Welsh-English border has become world-famous as a book lover's paradise; every street is lined with secondhand bookstores.