"Once a year, go someplace you've never been before."
Dalai Lama
June 28th Day Six
Highlights of the Day!
Wales was a lovely stop on the tour.
Items listed in blue are things we did with the group. Visit to Ironbridge Gorge Bridge Lunch on the bus Stokesay Castle Strolled around Conwy Group dinner at Castle Hotel
The gate house at Stokesay.
The grounds were beautiful at Stokesay.
Ironbridge Gorge Bridge
Ironbridge Gorge Bridge
Ironbridge Gorge was a nice rest stop for the group. While we didn't have time to tour the museums, we did get to gaze at the iron work on the bridge and hear some of the history.
Stokesay Castle
This was a first for a Rick Steves Tour. Sadly, the sheep dog demonstration that used to be in the itinerary had to be canceled. So Tom had found this treasure for our group to explore. We all enjoyed listening to and learning from our audio guides as we explored the castle and the tower!
June 29th Day Seven
Highlights of the Day!
Welsh and English!
Items listed in blue are things we did with the group.
Tour of Caernarfon Castle Tour of Welsh Slate Museum Free time in Conwy to walk the medieval walls and take photos Dinner and drinks at our hotel Card games in our room
Inside the castle walls
Working the railroad car at the Slate Museum!
Caernarfon Castle
We were given a fascinating guided tour of the castle before we had some free time to explore the grounds. Rebecca loved climbing to the top of one of the towers. It is fun to think we got to visit the castle where the Prince of Wales was given his title.
Welsh Slate Museum
Part of the old quarry
We enjoyed our stop at the Slate Museum. Our group arrived just in time to watch a slate splitting demonstration. It is always fascinating to watch a talented craftsman. Donna was given an early birthday gift when she received the slate heart that the craftsman created during the demo. We then strolled through the museum, especially enjoying the re-created quarrymen's houses.
Our Free Afternoon...
Only in Conwy! A caution sign for old people!
The harbor quay was fun to walk around and people watch.
Fun times walking the city walls! The views were beautiful in every direction.