Stunning Scenery: The Vale of Llangollen

The river Dee threads its way through the valley to the town of Llangollen, surrounded by spectacular hills and beautiful scenery. The gateway to North Wales and the Snowdonia National Park, its scenery is a delightful mixture of fierce mountains and luscious green hills. With beautiful views in every direction, the Vale is Welsh countryside at its best.
There’s plenty to do and see in the area if you planning a last minute break.  To the north of the town in a romantic and stunning setting, are the Gothic stone ruins of 13th century Valle Crucis Abbey. This Cistercian abbey, founded by a Welsh prince, has an almost intact chapter house. One of the enterprising abbots who lived there was accused of minting his own money. Further along that road is the infamous Horseshoe pass, a steep and winding road through the mountains.

To the north-east, a footpath climbs 800ft to the remains of Dinas Bran an 8th century castle. Stunning views await the adventurer who conquers the 750-foot climb.
Alongside the bridge is a station, home to Llangollen’s excellent steam railway. A 7-mile journey along the Dee Valley, which travels past the lovely Horseshoe Falls alongside the river to Glyndwrfy is incredibly scenic.
Another option is a ride aboard a horse drawn canal boat at the town’s wharf, just in front of the Llangollen Canal Museum. Along a branch line of the Shropshire Union Canal the trip gives you the opportunity to relax whilst admiring the picturesque Llangollen countryside.
The famous Pontcysylite Aqueduct, supported by four iron arches, stands 121 feet in the sky above the River Dee to the south of the town. Viewed from afar, the canal boats which travel along it seem to sail through the air. Built to carry traffic from the northern rim of the valley to the far side, this cast-iron trough is the longest and highest in Britain.
A black and white timbered house, Plas Newydd sits high on a hill looking over the village. Lady Eleanor Butler and Miss Sarah Ponsonby, its former inhabitants, were Irish aristocrats who gained notoriety in the 18th century. They dressed as men and lived in the house for 50 years, entertaining famous literary and political figures, including Sir Walter Scott and William Wordsworth. The interior of the house is decorated with carved oak, whilst beautiful grounds surrounding the home are now a public park.

There are an abundance of places to stay in the area, from reasonably priced and comfortable hotels to youth hotels perfect for the avid walker. Last minute deals are often available online – try Thomas Cook for some good deals on holidays, both domestic and foreign.