Welsh Towns and Villages

Hidden Gems of Wales: the lesser-known towns and villages you need to visit

As you browse through our Welsh holiday cottages, you may notice the vast range of small towns and villages, from coast to countryside, bustling market squares to remote fields. To help you navigate these hidden gems, we’ve curated this guide to some of the country’s best, tucked-away spots that you should definitely visit. 

Porthgain

Porthgain

This tiny hamlet in Pembrokeshire really showcases the best of this marvellous coast. Abereiddi blue lagoon is nearby and Porthgain is home to just one tiny harbour, but has a multitude of things to explore, including pubs and restaurants. The Sloop Inn is a historical landmark in and of itself and dates back to 1743. These days, the pub is a favourite of holiday makers and serves delicious seasonal Welsh meals. 

Llanberis

Llanberis

This has to be one of the most beautiful settings for a village in the world. Set in the foothills of Snowdonia, Llanberis is the definition of picture-perfect. Llanberis is also home to the famous Lone Tree, an Instagram and photography essential. We have a small selection of cottages in Llanberis for you to take a look at; they all have a distinctly rural and remote feel, perfect for those looking for a tranquil getaway. 

Talybont-on-usk

Talybont-on-Usk

You can’t get more Brecon Beacons than this pretty little village in the heart of the national park. For a little village, there’s plenty packed in to do and entertain. A canal, rivers, reservoir, woods, waterfalls, restaurants, shops. Whether it’s an energetic day of canoeing or a relaxing stroll along the canal there’s something for everyone. Our property Ger y Wysg Farmhouse is here and is perfect for a large family gathering, with space for up to seven guests and three dogs.

Bishopston

Bishopston is a lovely village on the edge of Gower, just 6 miles from Swansea. With two lovely local pubs serving food, drinks, and in the Joiners Arms’ case, it’s its own beer brewed in the microbrewery. Walk to Pwll Du, one of Wales best-hidden beaches, in the village or take a meander through the valley from Bishopston to Caswell Bay. Check out our cottages in Gower to get close to this gorgeous coastal spot, including Brandy Corner, The Annexe at 53 and Highfield House, which are all in Bishopston.

We couldn’t write this guide without also giving an honourable mention to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwendrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, the village with the longest name in the UK. The village is in Anglesey and a quick trip to take a photo with the sign is an Instagram must. Long names aside, Wales really does have some of the prettiest villages in Europe and indeed the world. Find out more about our holiday cottages across Wales.