Historic North Wales - Castles and Castellated Mansions in Snowdonia

The age of chivalry to which so many Welsh castles belong evokes romantic images of heroic knights winning fair ladies' hands. But when you look at the design and construction of Snowdonia's medieval castles, it's clear this wasn't a romantic age at all, but one of hardship and brutality.

Snowdonia's castles tell the story of the region's struggles for independence from the English crown, and some of Snowdonia's best-known castles were built by the English king, Edward I, in an effort to subdue the Welsh.

But the Welsh princes were also prolific castle builders; Snowdonia's Welsh castles provided protection and served as inspirational symbols of the Welsh struggle for independence.

In Victorian times, wealthy land owners looked to the past for inspiration in creating homes that portrayed wealth, status and power; consequently, Snowdonia is dotted with beautiful neo-Norman castellated mansions that ooze character.

1. Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle was arguably Edward's finest castle in Snowdonia, costing £25,000 to build - a vast sum in medieval terms. The bands of red sandstone built into Caernarfon Castle's walls are said to imitate the walls of Constantinople. Caernarfon Castle and town walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle - another of Edward's castles and also a UNESCO World Heritage site - was begun at the same time as Caernarfon Castle, in 1283. It took ten years to complete the castle, which is built on a base of bare rock surrounded by marsh and water. The castle's eight fortified towers rise up over Conwy, providing stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.

3. Criccieth Castle

Criccieth Castle is one of the great Welsh castles of Snowdonia, built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth and later extended by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Edwards I and II remodelled the castle, and there is still dispute as to which parts of the castle are Welsh and which are English. Perched atop a rocky promontory that juts dramatically into Tremadog Bay, Criccieth Castle is a spectacular sight from ground level, and views from the castle across the bay and the surrounding countryside are absolutely breathtaking.

4. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle - another UNESCO World Heritage site - has been described as "the definitive Welsh castle", although it was actually built by Edward I. Harlech fell to Owain Glyndwr in 1404, and was his headquarters for the duration of his uprising. During the Wars of the Roses Harlech was held for the Lancastrians, enduring an eight-year siege which inspired the song "Men of Harlech".

5. Castell y Bere

The ruins of Castell y Bere, near Tywyn, are often overlooked by visitors. But here you'll get a great sense of the history of this part of Snowdonia, and the might of the Welsh princes. From the remains of the rectangular tower you'll get the best views of the layout of the castle, and of Cader Idris, the brooding mountain overlooking the ruins.

6. Penrhyn Castle

Penrhyn Castle, just outside Bangor, is a castellated mansion which extends from the original medieval manor house in an extravagant display of Victorian wealth and status. Penrhyn's exterior is imposing and impressive; its interior beautifully carved and vaulted like a medieval cathedral. Penrhyn Castle also houses a wonderful art collection and railway museum.

7. Dolbadarn Castle

The remains of Dolbadarn Castle, near Llanberis, are an evocative sight. Built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth before 1230, Dolbadarn stands in a strategically important spot, which historians believe was the site of a 6th century fortress. Dolbadarn is distinguished by its mighty tower, whose remains stand at 40ft. The floors have long since disappeared, but you can still climb the stairs to the top.

8. Dolwyddelan Castle

Like Castell y Bere and Criccieth, Dolwyddelan is a Welsh castle built by the Welsh. Dolwyddelan was built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, some time after 1200, and was defended against Edward I by Llywelyn's grandson Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Like other Snowdonia castles, Dolwyddelan is in a beautiful setting with amazing views, so make sure you take your camera.

9. Bryn Bras Castle

Bryn Bras Castle, Caernarfon, is the work of Thomas Hopper, creator of Penrhyn Castle. Bryn Bras is privately owned and so is not open for visits, but you can rent a holiday apartment within the castle and enjoy a stylish break in beautiful and historic surroundings.

10. Castell Deudraeth

Part of the Portmeirion estate near Porthmadog, Castell Deudraeth is a 19th century castellated mansion built by David Williams, the first Liberal MP for Meirioneth. Castell Deudraeth was once used as a prep school, but in 2001 opened as a luxury hotel and restaurant. Visit Castell Deudraeth as part of your tour of Portmeirion, or book a table for a delicious dinner of local produce cooked to perfection by expert chefs.

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Walks in Wales

Walking in Wales offers a delightful opportunity to take in the full majesty of the countryside while getting your exercise and working up a healthy appetite for the area cuisine. Exploring Wales on foot offers the opportunity to fill a day or weekend trip with all the side trips, and meanders you can manage at your own pace. Your vacation will be comprised of a totally personal experience of the area and Wales walks can be researched in advanced and customized for all levels of experience, whether you are a stroller, a strider, or a hiker you can be truly happy walking in Wales.

Walking in North Wales

Waling in North Wales is an experience that is defined by your geographical relationship to Snowdonia National Park. This area is comprised by almost 840 square miles of land and it includes lakes, mountains, and other impressively diverse areas of natural beauty. The land of the mountains is only a short distance from the equally spectacular coastlines of Llyn Peninsula, which can be walked on the Llyn Coastal Footpath.

You could also try walking the Isle of Anglesey, which is Wales' largest island and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its one of the most important wildlife habitats in the British Isles and has a rich history of Neolithic and Bronze Age inhabitance.

Walking in Mid Wales

Mid Wales offers a quieter, less crowded experience of the countryside, but its natural beauty is no less spectacular for all that. Popular walking sites include:

· Ceredigion and Cardigan Bay, which is one of two sites in the U.K. with a population of bottlenose dolphins. The walks in this area are characterized by observations of the coastal and marine wildlife as well as pretty fishing villages.

· Brecon Beacons National Park, home to the Brecon Beacons mountain range. It's the highest range in the park and are considered the best hills in the country. These rounded hills offer open walks.

Walking In South Wales

South Wales contains perhaps the widest variety of terrain among the three walking regions of Wales. It boasts beautiful moors, rolling hills, beaches and cliff tops, valleys and hilltops, canals and rivers and coastline. It is also the home of Wales' longest national trail. Within this area of the country can be seen:

· Swansea Bay
· Wye Valley and the Vale of Usk
· Glamorgan Heritage Coast
· The South Wales Valleys
· Pembrokeshire
· Carmarthenshire

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Celtic Haven Pembrokeshire Holiday Cottages which make ideal accommodation for a Short Break in Pembrokeshire.

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A brief history of Wales

There are so many sites and great things to see in the United Kingdom. The UK has so much to offer tourists and citizens. There are beautiful country sides, historic sites, and dozens of other fun and interesting attractions. For those who live here or those who visit, the UK can always offer a good time and help people have an enjoyable time with friends of family.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to decide what to do or what to see in such a culturally diverse and interesting place. Amongst all the amazing things to see in the UK, one that you should absolutely not miss is Wales.

You probably have heard of Wales before. Wales is actually a country that is part of the United Kingdom that is actually touching England. It is a great place to live and a wonderful place to visit. For those who are completely unfamiliar with Wales, here is a brief little history to get you acquainted with this UK gem.

Beginnings

One of the more fascinating things about Wales is that it is not a young country. Wales has a rich and long history dating back hundreds and even thousands of years ago. Wales first began when the Celts began to settle in this area around 1000BC. However, Wales's history wasn't really recorded until around 50AD. At this time, the Romans were coming into Wales.

Interesting Facts

Wales has also been a part of its fair share of battles and conflicts. King Arthur even has a piece of Wales's history. The British and the Saxons fought in Wales and King Arthur was present and involved during this conflict.

Wales was also involved when the Normans were invading England. Wales was successful in resisting the Normans.

Today

Wales has had a long and interesting history from these early points until the present day. There have been some low points and some high points. Today, Wales is a fascinating place that offers some wonderful culture and excitement for any visitor or any potential resident. People love living in Wales.

More recently, Wales has made a splash in the sports world. During the summer Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008, there were a number of athletes competing from Wales.

There is another highlight that people from Wales have to look forward to. Golf has a very prestigious tournament every other year called the Ryder Cup, which Wales will host this year.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Celtic Haven, a great base to explore on a Short Break Wales by offering ideal Wales Holiday Cottage accommodation.

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Ireland seeks Alternative Energy Sources

Ireland is currently into serious energy development research in an effort to free itself from reliance on imported energy sources. Over the years, imported energy sources have fueled the country's growing economy. The country's dependence on imported energy currently stands at nearly 90 per cent of total energy demand. It is considered as the single biggest import item in the country's entire history. This precarious situation puts Ireland's long-term development strategy under threat. The country's need for alternative energy sources has never been sharper. It does not only need to develop those sources, it also needs to protect its environment and check its worsening air pollution caused by petroleum-powered energy generation.

With the European Union mandate seeking cuts in nitric oxide and sulfuric emissions from its member countries, green or environment-friendly energy is seen as the ultimate response to all of Ireland's development needs. Hydroelectric power has been proven effective and safe since the 1930s when the country first tried harnessing it. Development more of this kind of energy source is however needed to fully meet the growing demand. With its strategic location on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, Ireland also stands to benefit from wave-generated energy.

Interestingly, Ireland has the capacity to become an energy-exporting nation rather than being dependent on imported energy products. Truly, because of its abundant ocean waves, wind and biomass-producing alternative energy sources, Ireland can utilize these substantial and natural energy resources to become a major supplier energy generated from these alternative sources. It is a potential income-earning industry for the country in the future. For now, the nation may need to focus on its target of producing 15 per cent of the country's total demand for electricity using the wind farms by 2010. But studies coming from the academe, research institutes and government agencies that support harnessing of ocean wave as alternative energy source, the nation is in a position to jumpstart its twin goals of accelerating economic growth and energy independence.

Ireland has tested its site for ocean wave energy technology in an area near the coast off County Galway Bay. Tagged as "Wavebob", the experimental site for ocean wave energy generation produces the greatest mass of power waves in the world, according to Dr. Peter Heffernan, Ireland's Marine Institute Chief Executive Officer. With the right and improved technology to develop the power of the ocean, the nation stands to gain the title as the top producer of ocean wave generated energy.

David Taylor, Chief Executive Officer of Sustainable Energy Initiative has likewise committed SEI's interest in the development of new technologies for the renewable energy sector. The huge potential of ocean wave energy can be harnessed to considerably lessen the country's dependence on fossil fuels.

Irish Farmers' Association President Padraig Walshe, on the other hand, said that with the shutting down of the sugar beet industry, there is an expected rise of available Irish crop land for other uses like bio-energy production. Currently, the nation's renewable energy production only accounts for not more than 2 per cent of its entire energy consumption. From the farming sector's view, growing energy crops can only be sustained if it can guarantee economic returns on investment and labour at a sustainable and secure level. As of now, it can be noted that the return from energy crops remains marginal, thus preventing the industry from fully expanding. It is thus imperative for Ireland to do more research to address these challenges.

Hermilando Aberia is an expert in social development work with at least 22 years of professional experience as either consultant or key staff member of health, community development, education and local governance projects. He has a master's degree in development management from the Asian Institute of Management. Contact Information: B21 L59 Kassel Kristina Heights, Tacloban City, Philippines Mobile: (+63) 9058664106; Website: http://www.freewebs.com/iaberia

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The 5 Most Popular Sports in Ireland

Ireland has a fantastic sporting heritage and enthusiasm for all sports is rife throughout the country, from junior and amateur levels all the way up to international professionals. The five most popular sports in Ireland Gaelic football, hurling, soccer and horse racing being spectator and participant sports and lets not forget golf are very sociable activities in Ireland that bring people together, whether joining a club or team or simply watching in the pub. As such, an Ireland Sports Tour to attend sporting events or to compete as a team can be a great way to see the country and meet people while enjoying your favorite sport. In addition to huge support for the mainstream European sports such as football, rugby, and golf, Ireland has many of its own sports that are followed fanatically and have begun to grow internationally thanks to the large Irish expatriate communities all over the world.

Gaelic Football

The most popular sport in Ireland is Gaelic football, which has more in common with rugby or Australian-rules football than association football. Normally played by teams of 15 over two halves of around 30 minutes on a large grass pitch, the aim is to score more points than the other team. Points are scored by either kicking or punching the ball over the crossbar of the H-frame goal or into the net. Gaelic football matches can attract a large, passionate support, especially at senior levels. No sporting tour of Ireland would be complete without seeing one for yourself.

Hurling - another ancient Gaelic Sport

The second most popular sport in Ireland is hurling, an ancient sport also of Gaelic origin, and shares many of the features of Gaelic football. Played on the same pitch, with the same goals, number of players and scoring system, the difference is in the manner of play. Players use a flattened wooden stick with a curved end, known as a hurley, to strike the sliotar, a small leather ball somewhat similar to a baseball, and attempt to score points for their team. Good players can hurl the sliotar at great speeds over enormous distances. As such, injuries are not uncommon, but hurling remains a popular and intensely exciting sport to watch or play, and another must-see for any Irish sporting tour.

Golf in Ireland

For those who prefer more tranquil sports and pastimes, Ireland has much to offer to keen golfers. Although more traditionally associated with Scotland, Ireland has a rich golfing history and many of its courses have been played on for hundreds of years. The more sedate pace of golf allows those on an Ireland Sports Tour a more leisurely opportunity to meet and socialize with local players whilst taking in the picturesque scenery of one of the Emerald Isles many fantastic links, and of course a visit to the clubhouse to tee off on the "19th hole!"

Soccer (Football)

Despite being stuck in the shadow of more traditional Gaelic sports, the worlds most popular sport does thrive in Ireland and soccer, association football or just plain football fans can always find something to keep them occupied, particularly in the cities. Whilst the media are predominantly focused on the Scottish and English Leagues, there are many competitive teams in Ireland and it is well worth your while to take in a match if you are there in season, as the Irish bring the same vociferous support and enthusiasm to football as to any of their other pastimes.

Horse Racing

Of course, there are many other sports and events in Ireland such as horse racing, though horse racing is not something you can challenge as a team, it can be enjoyed as a spectator. However, no matter what your particular game it is an odds-on bet that an Ireland Sports Tour will fit the bill and you will find it fun and enjoyable. Ireland is a popular destination for all sorts of sports enthusiasts; the people are welcoming and friendly, and often happy to arrange friendly match-ups for those on sporting tours. This can be an excellent way to meet the local Irish people, mingling with the natives as you toast victory or mourn defeat with your new friends in the pub or clubhouse.

Travel Tips for Team Play or Spectators

If you are a sports fan, team member, sports coach, or group leader look for a reputable company to handle your tour arrangements and Ireland sports travel vacations. Whether you want to go to Ireland as a spectator or arrange for your sports team to go to Ireland and challenge the Irish it is important to work with the best due to the logistics involved with sporting events and games.

Taylor Hill, author, sports enthusiast and world traveler. If you are a sports fan, coach, sports team member, or group leader look for a reputable company to handle your tour arrangements for sports travel vacations and to arrange for your sports team to come to Ireland and challenge the Irish. TSI takes care of all the logistics for sports teams traveling to Ireland, group vacations and Ireland Sports Tours. Travel Solutions Ireland is a reputable Irish tour operator in Dublin with 37 years experience visit travelsolutionsireland.com

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