Wales is a beautiful country with a diverse landscape that offers something for everyone. In the winter, Wales transforms into a winter wonderland and although being able to ski in the Welsh mountains is rare these days, there are plenty of places for all the family to enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities, even on those chilly winter days.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder or a beginner looking for a fun day out, Wales has something to offer everyone.
Hit the (Dry) Slopes
Wales boasts a number of ski centres with dry slopes. These provide the perfect place to learn or a quick adrenaline fix close to home for seasoned skiers and snowboarders.
Cardiff Ski and Snowboard Centre provides affordable access to the slopes as well as group and private lessons (ski and snowboard), a ski school and activities. Here you can also try tubing, a fun activity which requires no previous experience! Learn more.
Llandudno Snowsports Centre is home to not only skiing and snowboarding but tubing, tobogganing and alpine golf, too. Truly something for everyone. Check out the website for more information.
Llangrannog Ski Centre boasts stunning coastal views and provides skiing and snowboarding opportunities to children from across Wales. There is also limited public opening, check it out here.
Pembrey Ski & Activity Centre offers ski and snowboard lessons, and then recreational slope access. Tubing is also available, and the park boasts Wales’s longest Toboggan ride, too! Visit the website.
Snowsport Torfaen in Pontypool offers a 230-metre main slope, a beginner’s area, a ski lift, a sprinkler system, and a bump run as well as tubing. There are activities for all ages, starting with a ski school for ages 3-5. Learn more.
Glide Across the Ice
If skiing and snowboarding aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy winter sports in the wonderland of Wales. If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, ice skating is a great option.
There are a number of ice rinks in Wales, including two permanent venues:
Cardiff: Vindico Arena Ice Rink is located in the heart of Cardiff and is open all year round.
Deeside Ice Arena, Flintshire, North Wales, offers year-round skating, lessons and even an ice disco! Find out more.
You’ll also find a number of seasonal ice rinks including:
- Cardiff Castle’s Winter Wonderland ice rink and ice walk.
- Swansea Waterfront Wonderland
- J20 Skate at the ICC, Newport (from December 15th)
- Barry Island Winter Wonderland Ice Skating
- The Secret Garden, Pontypool
- Trago Mills, Merthyr Tydfil as part of their Winter Fest.
Here are a few tips for planning your winter adventure in Wales:
If you’re travelling especially, book your accommodation in advance: Winter is a popular time to visit Wales, so it’s important to book your accommodation early to avoid disappointment.
Check the weather forecast: The weather in Wales can change quickly, so it’s important to check the forecast before you head out. Make sure to wrap up warm!
Respect the environment: whether you’re on an organised activity or off the beaten track, leave no trace of your visit and respect the local wildlife.
Have fun: Winter sports are a great way to get exercise, enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories!
Wales is a truly magical destination for winter sports, offering a variety of activities and stunning locations. So, whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder, a beginner looking to learn, or simply seeking a winter adventure, Wales has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, grab your warm clothes and head to Wales for an unforgettable winter experience.
