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Best North Wales Road Trips
North Wales is home to some of the most spectacular driving routes anywhere in the United Kingdom. From dramatic mountain passes and rugged coastlines, to picturesque villages and sweeping countryside views, the region offers an incredible variety of scenic drives that are perfect for holidaymakers who are looking for something a little more than a beach holiday.
Whether you are an enthusiastic driver searching for challenging mountain roads or simply looking for a relaxing afternoon exploring the coastline, there are plenty of memorable road trips in North Wales just waiting to be discovered. To help you make the most of your stay, we have compiled our pick of the top five best North Wales road trips that we feel really showcases the very best scenery that this stunning region has to offer.
Let’s start off with a North Wales road trip route which takes in perhaps the regions most famous road…
1. The EVO Triangle & Llangollen Route
When discussing the most famous road trips in North Wales, it is impossible not to start with the legendary EVO Triangle.
This iconic 25 mile driving route begins by taking the A5 through the historic town of Llangollen before joining the B4501 and A543 to complete the triangular circuit that has become famous amongst driving enthusiasts throughout the UK. Originally popularised by motoring journalists who used the roads for vehicle testing, the route has since become one of the most sought-after driving experiences in Britain.
The journey starts with the beautiful scenery surrounding Llangollen before climbing towards the spectacular Horseshoe Pass. This section of road offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Dee Valley and provides an excellent opportunity to stop and admire the landscape.
As the route continues, drivers are treated to sweeping open tarmac, flowing bends and wide open moorland scenery. Unlike many mountain roads, visibility is often excellent, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the route’s smooth curves and stunning surroundings.
The combination of dramatic scenery, well maintained roads and exhilarating driving conditions has helped establish the EVO Triangle as one of the premier North Wales road trips for visitors seeking a memorable day behind the wheel.
2. Snowdonia Mountain Loop via the A4086 & A498
Few road trips in North Wales can rival the sheer drama of the Snowdonia Mountain Loop.
Stretching out for approximately 30 miles, this unforgettable route follows the A4086 and A498 through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country. Widely regarded as one of the finest alpine style drives in the UK, this journey showcases the raw beauty of Snowdonia National Park at its very best.
The route passes through the famous Llanberis Pass, where towering rock faces rise dramatically on either side of the road. Throughout the drive, visitors are surrounded by the imposing peaks of Mount Snowdon and the rugged Glyderau mountain range, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else in Wales.
As the road winds through the mountains, visitors are rewarded with magnificent views over Llyn Padarn, one of the region’s most picturesque lakes. The constantly changing scenery ensures there is always something new to admire around every corner.
The route eventually descends into the charming village of Beddgelert, one of North Wales’ most beloved destinations. Nestled amongst forests and mountains, Beddgelert provides the perfect place to stop for refreshments before continuing your North Wales road trip.
For visitors looking to experience the dramatic heart of the iconic Snowdonia, this remains one of the finest road trips in North Wales.
3. Great Orme and Conwy Coastal Drive
Not every scenic drive needs to be long or challenging. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the Great Orme and Conwy Coastal Drive offers one of the most enjoyable short journeys in the region.
Covering around 12 miles, this route begins on Marine Drive, the famous one-way coastal road that circles the Great Orme in Llandudno. The road stays tight to the limestone cliffs overlooking the Irish Sea and provides uninterrupted views across the coastline throughout much of the journey.
The Great Orme itself dominates the landscape, creating a dramatic backdrop that remains visible for much of the drive. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sea views while taking in the area’s unique geology and abundant wildlife.
After completing Marine Drive, the route continues towards Conwy via the A55 and B5106. Along the way, travellers can admire views of Conwy Castle, the estuary and the surrounding mountains.
This route is particularly popular with holidaymakers looking for a peaceful Sunday afternoon drive, offering plenty of opportunities to stop, explore and enjoy the scenery without committing to a full day of motoring.
4. Anglesey Coastal Ring & South Stack Route
Anglesey possesses a character all of its own, making it one of the most rewarding destinations for road trips in North Wales.
This 35 mile route begins by following the B5109 towards Menai Bridge before joining the B4545 towards Holyhead and South Stack. Along the way, tourists can experience a wonderful blend of coastal scenery, charming seaside towns and dramatic landscapes.
The drive begins by crossing the Menai Strait, where stunning views open up across the water towards mainland North Wales and the mountains beyond. As the route continues across Anglesey, the scenery gradually becomes more rugged and windswept.
One of the highlights of the journey is reaching South Stack, located on the island’s western edge. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves create one of the most impressive coastal landscapes anywhere in Wales.
South Stack Lighthouse is undoubtedly the star attraction along this route. Perched on a small rocky island connected by a steep staircase, the lighthouse has become one of the most photographed landmarks in North Wales. During the summer months, the surrounding cliffs are home to puffins and numerous other seabirds, making this route particularly appealing to wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and nature lovers.
The combination of island charm, incredible coastal scenery and exceptional birdwatching opportunities makes this one of the most distinctive North Wales road trips available.
5. Colwyn Bay to Llandudno Junction Coastal Drive
Sometimes the best road trips are the simplest, and this short coastal drive between Colwyn Bay and Llandudno Junction proves exactly that.
Covering just five miles, this route is ideal for visitors who want to enjoy spectacular scenery while still leaving plenty of time for other activities during their day out in North Wales. Following the coastline, drivers are treated to beautiful views across the Irish Sea while passing through some of North Wales’ most attractive seaside locations. The route is easy to navigate, relatively quiet and suitable for all types of visitors.
One of the highlights comes at the end of the journey when arriving at Llandudno Junction. Here, we’d recommend that you make the time to stop at the renowned Enoch’s Fish & Chips, widely regarded as one of the finest fish and chip shops in Conwy. After enjoying freshly cooked fish and chips, visitors can continue exploring nearby Conwy, Deganwy or Llandudno.
For a short but rewarding drive, this route delivers excellent coastal scenery without requiring a significant time commitment. The short distance also makes it a suitable cycling route in North Wales for those who don’t want to take on too much of a physical challenge.
Discover Incredible North Wales Road Trips with Pario Holiday Parks
The beauty of North Wales lies in the incredible variety of experiences available within a relatively small area. From mountain passes and coastal roads to island adventures and countryside escapes, these North Wales road trips offer something for every type of holidaymaker.
When you stay at a Pario Holiday Park, you’ll be perfectly positioned to explore these spectacular routes. Marine Holiday Park is ideal for families seeking outstanding entertainment, leisure facilities and easy access to the North Wales coastline. Tan Rallt Holiday Park appeals to those looking for luxury holiday home ownership and peaceful countryside surroundings while remaining close to many of the region’s top attractions. Gimblet Rock Holiday Park meanwhile is perfect for visitors who want direct beach access, stunning sea views and a fantastic base for exploring the Llyn Peninsula, Snowdonia National Park and Anglesey.
Book your next holiday with Pario Holiday Parks and discover why these unforgettable road trips in North Wales continue to attract tourists from across the UK and beyond.