Wales is probably the least known and least understood part of the UK to non-Brits. It’s also among the most beautiful. Its defining features are its dramatic mountainous landscape and coastline, with some of the best beaches in Europe thrown in for good measure.  

The most visible – and famous – elements of its history are its 600-odd castles. Some of them – most notably those at Caernarfon and Conwy – are among the mightiest medieval castles on the planet.

These, and the nearby Snowdonia National Park, are the first ports of call for many visitors to Wales.

Those of a sporting persuasion often head to the capital, Cardiff, first. It has hosted everything from a Champions League final to Ashes cricket Test matches and, most famously of all, Wales rugby internationals.

Most come away to tell of a great compact capital city with a wealth of things to see, including, you guessed it, two castles.  It’s impossible to conclude without mentioning the mountains of the Brecon Beacons, the ‘Green Desert’ of remote upland Mid Wales, and the stunning beaches of the Gower Peninsula and Pembrokeshire. And if you ever find a more beautiful seaside town than gorgeous Tenby, do tell us, won’t you?