Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GETTING AROUND
When people talk of the north-south divide in Wales, it's not just about language - part of it is physical. The barrier that is
created by the Cambrian Mountains, Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia means that it's often quicker to duck in and out of
England to get between north and south Wales. The same is true by train: there's a network of lines that slowly zigzag
their way throughout the country but the faster trains head through Bristol and Birmingham. That said, both roads and rail
lines are extremely scenic. In Wales that old adage about the journey outweighing the destination is aptly demonstrated
here.
Wales is one of those places where Brits come to get back to nature, so it's very well set up for walkers and cyclists.
With a flexible schedule and a modicum of patience it's quite possible to explore the country by public transport.
However, it's worth considering hiring a car for at least part of your trip, especially if you're on a limited time frame and
you're not averse to losing yourself in the sort of narrow country lanes that require pulling over when a car approaches
from the other direction.
Buses are nearly always the cheapest way to get around but you'll generally get to places quicker by train. For informa-
tion on services your best bet is the local tourist office where you'll be able to pick up maps and timetables. For up-to-
date information on public transport throughout Wales check with
Traveline
( 0871 200 22 33;
www.traveline-cym-
ru.info
) . Unfortunately the website doesn't list prices but the
Arriva Trains Wales
(
www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk
)
web-
site does, as does the
National Express
(
08717 81 81 78;
www.nationalexpress.co.uk
) website.
TRAVEL PASSES
If you're planning a whirlwind tour of Wales by public transport, getting an Explore Wales pass is a good idea.
Passes allow free travel in Wales and adjacent areas of England, on all rail routes and nearly all intercity bus routes
and can be bought online, at most staffed train stations and at rail-accredited travel agencies in Wales.
The passes also get you discounts on various sights and activities, on heritage railways and at a variety of ac-
commodation. Full details are in the travel guide provided when you buy your pass.
The passes on offer include the following, which allow eight days of bus travel plus four days of train travel
(within that period):
4 in 8 Day All Wales Pass
(£94)
Freedom of South Wales Flexi Rover
(£64)
North & Mid-Wales Flexi Rover
(£64)
Bicycle
Rural Wales is a great place for cycling: traffic on back roads is limited; there are loads of multi-use trails and three long-
distance cycling routes as part of Sustrans'
National Cycle Network
(NCN;
www.sustrans.org.uk
) . For long-distance
travel around Wales, though, the hilly and often mountainous terrain is mostly for experienced tourers.
In the larger towns and cities, there are few bike lanes and the usual problems with inconsiderate motorists. Bike theft
can also be a major problem in urban areas.
Bikes can be taken on most trains, although there is limited space for them. On most services it's worth making a reser-
vation for your bike at least 24 hours in advance; there is a small charge for this on some routes.
