The long spine of the Cambrian Mountains runs north to south through Wales, its northernmost rocks dating back 3000 million years to when the molten crust of the Earth was just beginning to harden. It forms peaks that are the highest south of the Scottish border, such as Snowdon, 3560 feet high. With its moors and forests, this mountainous barrier has always kept Wales separate and has frustrated many an English king with his sights set on conquering this country. It has, moreover, made Wales something of an enigma to outsiders, with its myths, magic and legends and its own language.
There are 750 miles of coastline varying from sheer, wild cliffs to rocky coves and vast sandy bays; there are the great National Parks of Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire; there are mountainsides down which rhododendrons tumble; forest walks and waterfalls, mountain railways and music festivals, and there are said to be 641 ancient castles.
Opportunities for adventure and activity are endless, but equally, the opportunity to restore the spirits in such beautiful natural surroundings cannot be underestimated.