A country firmly put on the map for its exceptional landscapes, Wales serves as every outdoor photographer’s dream. With an 870-mile long coastal path that’s home to some of the most diverse seaside scenery you could imagine; from towering Seacliff’s to idyllic coves and bays, coastal wonders are in abundance. Marry this with epic mountainscapes and a luscious countryside, and a country like no other delivers a landscape more than worthy of a picture! So, where are the landscape photography hotspots?
Below, I’ve highlighted just some of the places in this stunning country, where bringing along your camera is an absolute necessity.
Barmouth, Snowdonia
Barmouth is a place where the mountains dramatically roll into the sea. Within the same frame, you can capture the peaks of Snowdonia National Park and the waters of Cardigan Bay. Year round, this is a place where magical scenes can be admired. During the winter months, there are often collections of low-lying clouds on the mountains while the sea air rolls in theatrical storms. In the summer, the blue skies reflecting in the water create captivating shades, and the vibrant greens of the surrounding hills generate a pleasing contrast for your picture.
The Great Orme, North Wales
Rising more than 200 meters out of the sea in North Wales, is the impressive, Great Orme. The limestone headland, rich in wild flora and fauna and home to the resident and characterful Kashmir goats, dwarfs the nearby landmarks of the area. As Special Area of Conservation and Site of Scientific Interest, it is not only exceptional to look at but equally as fascinating for its archaeology, history and wildlife. For the keen photographers planning a visit, we’d suggest either sunrise or sunset, as the lighting provides another dynamic to your shot. It’s a fantastic place to while away a few hours too, pack an indulgent picnic and a flask of tea or coffee, and sit to watch the world go past.
Flimston Bay, Pembrokeshire
There are many draws to Pembrokeshire, but the strongest of them all has got to be its outstanding coastline. Pristine golden beaches morph into dizzyingly high crags, with all in between serving as a haven for wildlife. One of my favourite photography hotspots along this stunning stretch of coast is Flimston Bay. Providing the best of both – soft sands and intricate rock formations – you have a varied choice of focal points for your pictures. A weekend, week or longer will always feel like too short when visiting Pembrokeshire, but if you’re considering a visit, I would recommend these Pembrokeshire holiday cottages. There’s such a fantastic variety and something for all tastes and preferences.
Parys Mountain, Anglesey
Previously the largest copper mine in the world and now, an unusual yet captivating landscape. Appearing as a scene from another planet, the mineral-rich land brought riches historically and brings visual riches today. A trail guides visitors around the disused mine, where the landscape has been carved by activity, and the copper-hews have been brought to life!
Snowdonia National Park
No landscape hotspot list would be complete without Snowdonia National Park included on it! Photographers are spoilt for choice, and everywhere you look, your eyes are awarded with beauty. With ranging colours, textures and focal points, each of your snaps will be remaining firmly on your memory devices! As impressive by day as it is by night, the skies of Snowdonia National Park appear to glisten. The Dark Sky Reserve is an exceptional place to spend an hour or two admiring the night’s sky, and if you’re new to night-time photography, this is an excellent location to start, as, on a clear night, you will enjoy some of the best views of the constellations that you will get in the UK.
Quality cottages has an extensive range of superb self-catered holiday cottages all over Wales, in some of the most stunning locations in the area. From popular seaside historical towns, secluded and rural locations offering peace and tranquillity, to cottages surrounded by the picturesque rolling hills of the Welsh countryside and much, much more! Your stay in a Quality Cottage in wales will be a holiday that you’ll cherish for many years to come.
