0333 234 2010
Saved
Menu
Book now & lock in today's price. Price Guarantee offer extended until 30 April
Back to search results
Great Little Trains of North Wales & Portmeirion - JG Explorer

Great Little Trains of North Wales & Portmeirion - JG Explorer


5 days day day
from £589££pp

2026 Jun Jul


Discover the historic railways and meandering tramways of North Wales on this fantastic five-day break, where the lovely Welsh scenery and endless panoramas of the Snowdonia National Park create spectacular and memorable journeys. We’re based in Llandudno, the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’, and enjoy a visit to the unique, Italianate village of Portmeirion. Just imagine hearing the faint lapping of waves and admiring brightly coloured cottages and domed buildings, as you head to an authentic gelateria… no, you’re not in Italy, this is Wales!

Highlights

  • Return coach travel
  • 4 nights at a selected hotel in Llandudno (JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
  • Entertainment some evenings
  • Excursions to Caernarfon & Portmeirion
  • Heritage journeys on the Welsh Highland Railway, Great Orme Tramway & Ffestiniog Railway
  • Free time in Llandudno

Itinerary

We travel to Caernarfon, a charming town with a thriving harbour located on the eastern shore of the Menai Straits. The main landmark of Caernarfon is the mighty castle ordered by Edward I in the 13th century which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the afternoon we board the Welsh Highland Railway and enjoy a picturesque trip to the quaint village of Beddgelert, admiring the awe-inspiring scenery of the Snowdonia National Park on the way. Stunning coastlines, ancient woodlands, towering mountains, sparkling rivers and historic castles create an enchanting and memorable journey.

This morning we board the Great Orme Tramway, Britain’s only cable-hauled public road tramway which has been delighting visitors since it opened in 1902. We embark on a scenic journey up to the summit of the Great Orme, passing through the Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea and mountains as we travel in the original, lovingly-restored Victorian tramcars.

Please note: due to its Victorian design, the Great Orme Tramway may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. Please visit greatormetramway.co.uk/en/access-statement for some information. There will also be some walking involved from the coach drop off point to the tramway station.

Later we enjoy some free time at leisure in our resort. Llandudno is known as the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’ and is famed for its golden beach flanked by two headlands, the Great and Little Ormes, and its wonderful air of traditional Victorian charm. From strolling along the beautiful coast to exploring the famous Llandudno pier, or perhaps a spot of shopping at the Victoria Centre, there is plenty to do here.

Architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis designed and built the Italianate village of Portmeirion after being inspired by visits to the Mediterranean. Its unique atmosphere has seen it featured on camera many times, most famously in the 1960s TV series, The Prisoner. Enjoy browsing the cluster of historic cottages and iconic architecture, admire the glorious views, and indulge in ice cream in the authentic Italian-style gelateria during our time here.

We then travel to the harbour town of Porthmadog to catch the Ffestiniog Railway to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau. The train climbs over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures, magnificent forests, lakes and waterfalls.


Accommodation

The traditional White Heather Hotel is situated 100 yards from Llandudno’s North Shore beach. Hotel features include en-suite rooms with a flat-screen TV, a bar, terrace and restaurant.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

The Baytree Hotel in Llandudno is located on the seafront, across from the pier and offers stunning views of the picturesque bay. This historic hotel combines traditional Victorian architecture with comfortable and contemporary rooms. The hotel facilities include a seafront restaurant, bar, lounge and outdoor seating. All rooms are en-suite and have a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.

Situated on the seafront, the Chatsworth House Hotel boasts stunning views of the Llandudno Bay and the Great Orme. All elegantly furnished rooms are en-suite with a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and a bar.

Hotel Rating

Hotels with a JG3 rating tend to be a more formal style of hotel, often part of a hotel chain, or are very-welcoming family-owned properties. Generally, they offer a greater range of facilities and services, and bedrooms tend to be a little more spacious with additional features. Public areas are larger and include lounge seating, bar and restaurant with good quality food served either buffet style or waiter service.


Helpful Information

Turn your journey into part of the holiday with our deluxe JG Explorer coaches. Designed for comfort and relaxation, every detail has been thoughtfully considered so you can simply sit back, unwind and enjoy the ride. With no driving to worry about, your holiday begins the moment you step aboard.

A smooth ride from start to finish

Our experienced drivers know their routes inside out, ensuring you reach your destination safely and comfortably. Along the way, they’re happy to share local knowledge and helpful insights, making every mile part of the experience.

More space, more comfort

Exclusive to the JG Travel Group, JG Explorer coaches feature just 44 seats, giving you more space to stretch out and relax. Reclining seats with padded support and footrests allow you to find your perfect position, while improved legroom ensures a comfortable journey wherever you choose to sit.

For ease and accessibility, there is a convenient floor-level toilet on board — meaning no awkward steps during your journey.

The best seat in the house

Upgrade to a premium front seat and enjoy panoramic views of the road ahead, extra legroom and a handy countertop for your personal belongings – the perfect spot to take in the scenery in comfort.

Entertainment sorted

Stay entertained throughout your journey with our wireless media system, offering a range of films and fun quizzes. Simply connect using your smartphone or tablet and enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the coach. Every seat is also equipped with a USB port to keep your devices charged along the way.

Refreshments on tap

JG Explorer coaches include a rear-mounted kitchen area stocked with hot and cold drinks, so refreshments are always within easy reach. There’s also a filtered water tap available, allowing you to refill your bottle whenever you like.

Recommended For You

Cookies


This website uses cookies to enhance your user experience. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to the use of all cookies. You can withdraw consent at any time. Learn more.

Accept Only Essential Cookies Reject All Non-Essential Cookies Accept All