Best Driving Roads in Wales

Car Owl

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Summary

• Wales has incredible driving roads: Mountains, coastline, and quiet valleys.
• Something for everyone: From challenging passes to gentle scenic routes.
• Less crowded than England: Empty roads and stunning views.

Wales packs a lot of scenery into a small area. From Snowdonia's mountain passes to the Pembrokeshire coast, here are the best driving roads.

The Evo Triangle

Named by Evo magazine, this is one of Britain's most famous driving roads.

• Location: North Wales, near Betws-y-Coed
• Routes: A543, A5, B4501
• Character: Sweeping bends, challenging, scenic
• Distance: About 20 miles loop

Best enjoyed early morning or weekdays when quieter.

A470: Wales North to South

The spine of Wales, running from Cardiff to Llandudno.

• Distance: About 186 miles
• Highlights: Brecon Beacons, Mid Wales valleys, Snowdonia
• Character: Varied – some fast, some winding

A full day drive with countless scenic stops.

Black Mountain Road (A4069)

Made famous by Top Gear, this is a thrilling mountain pass.

• Location: Brecon Beacons National Park
• Length: About 20 miles
• Character: Steep climbs, hairpin bends, open moorland
• Best for: Confident drivers, good weather

Warning: Watch for sheep on the road and livestock grids.

Snowdonia Mountain Passes

Llanberis Pass (A4086)

• Dramatic route between Llanberis and Capel Curig
• Views of Snowdon
• Can be busy in peak season

Crimea Pass (A470)

• Near Blaenau Ffestiniog
• Less known but equally scenic
• Great sweeping bends

Pembrokeshire Coastal Roads

For a more relaxed drive with stunning sea views:

• Best sections: Around St Davids, Tenby to Saundersfoot
• Character: Winding coastal roads, villages, beaches
• Pace: Take your time and enjoy the views

The Devil's Staircase (A4120)

A winding road through the Cambrian Mountains.

• Location: Near Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge
• Character: Narrow, twisty, atmospheric
• Attractions: Devil's Bridge Falls nearby

Gospel Pass

The highest road pass in Wales.

• Location: Black Mountains, near Hay-on-Wye
• Height: 549 metres
• Character: Single track in places, remote
• Views: Spectacular across multiple valleys

Tips for Driving in Wales

• Watch for livestock: Sheep often on mountain roads
• Single track roads: Use passing places correctly
• Weather: Mountains create their own weather – be prepared
• Fuel up: Stations sparse in rural areas
• Take breaks: Plenty of scenic spots to stop

Best Time to Visit

For more great drives, see our guides to UK scenic drives and planning a road trip.

Where to Stop Along the Way

Wales has plenty of great stop-off points for food, drinks, and stretching your legs:

• Betws-y-Coed: A popular village with cafes and outdoor shops.
• Hay-on-Wye: Famous for bookshops and quirky charm.
• Tenby: Colourful harbour town with great fish and chips.
• Bala: Lakeside town in Snowdonia. Good halfway stop.

What to Pack for a Welsh Driving Trip

• Rain gear: Even in summer, Welsh weather changes fast.
• Full fuel tank: Fill up before heading into rural areas.
• Snacks and water: Shops are few on mountain routes.
• Phone charger: Mobile signal can be patchy in valleys.
• Camera: The views are worth capturing.

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