The Best Coastal Castles in Wales You Can Explore in a Single Weekend

Wales is officially the castle capital of Europe, and nowhere is that grand heritage more dramatic than where the stone meets the sea. If you are looking for the ultimate road-trip itinerary that combines imposing medieval history with sweeping coastal views, you can explore three of the finest strongholds in the world over a single, magical weekend.

Even better? They are all located within an easy drive of our coastal Dioni cottages, making it the perfect excuse for a heritage-filled getaway.

Saturday Morning: Castell Caernarfon (Caernarfon Castle)

Start your weekend at one of the most visually striking fortresses in Europe. Built by Edward I, Castell Caernarfon isn’t just a defensive fort; it was designed to be a grand royal palace. Its unique polygonal towers and banded masonry were inspired by the walls of Constantinople.

• The Highlight: Climbing the Eagle Tower for a commanding view over the Menai Strait.
• Where to stay nearby: Check out our properties around the Menai Strait and Caernarfon to wake up right on the doorstep of history.

Saturday Afternoon: Castell Cricieth (Criccieth Castle)

Drive south onto the Llÿn Peninsula to experience a very different kind of fortress. Unlike Caernarfon, Castell Cricieth was originally built by Welsh royalty – Llywelyn the Great. Perched high on a rocky headland jutting out into Cardigan Bay, it splits the town’s two beaches.

• The Highlight: The view from the twin-towered gatehouse. On a clear day, you can look right across the water to the mountains of mid-Wales. Afterward, walk down the hill for a scoop of famous Cadwaladers ice cream.
• Where to stay nearby: Check out our properties around the Criccieth here

Sunday: Castell Harlech (Harlech Castle)

Conclude your weekend by crossing the estuary to Harlech. Spectacularly pinned to a sheer cliff face, Castell Harlech once stood right on the water’s edge (the sea has since receded, leaving it looking out over a massive dune system). It withstood a famous seven-year siege during the Wars of the Roses, inspiring the famous song Men of Harlech.

• The Highlight: Walking across the breathtaking floating footbridge to enter the castle, and soaking in the views of the Eryri mountains framing the sandy coastline below.
• Where to stay nearby: We have a beautiful collection of traditional stone cottages in Harlech and Barmouth that put you minutes from the castle walls.