From Swallow Falls to Caernarfon

From Swallow Falls to Caernarfon

Just outside Betwys y Coed on the road to Caernarfon is the natural phenomenon known as Swallow Falls or Rhaeadr Ewynnol  (Foaming Waterfall), which since Victorian times have been a popular tourist destination. It  in fact comprises a series waterfalls foaming and crashing down the Llugwy valley,

Caernarfon

Our third stop today will be in the town of Caernarfon (also spelt Caernarvon). The town has one of the finest preserved castles in Wales, and indeed in whole of the United Kingdom. The castle was built by Edward I in 1283 in order to subdue the native Welsh population and so destroy their hopes of autonomy. Edward also built the small town which lies almost hidden within its walls. In 1969, the castle became known around the world as the setting for the investiture of Prince Charles (Queen Elizabeth's eldest son), as Prince of Wales, following in the footsteps of the first English Prince of Wales, the son of Edward I, who was born in the castle in 1284.

On the outskirts of the town is the Roman garrison of Segontium. According to legend, the Emperor Maximus met Helen, the world's most beautiful woman, in Caernarfon, and married her there.

Today this small picturesque Welsh speaking town has a continental feel to it. It is a popular destination with tourists and yachtsmen from all over the world. Hopefully you too will enjoy exploring its friendly street cafes and shops, in the shadow of this impressive fortress, which although was once a symbol of English oppression, has now become part of the nation's heritage.