Wales: Part 1

The first day of our weekend getaway to Wales started off a little rough... Mariel nearly missed the bus and there was rain in the forecast. However, as soon as we reached our first destination, all was good in the neighborhood and luckily the rain held off (for the entire weekend I might add!). Neither of us were really quite sure what to expect, but we wanted to visit our paternal homeland. Maybe we'd run into some long lost cousins?! While no such thing happened, we learned tons about this underrated principality of the United Kingdom. With a population of 3 million and a sheep population of 10 million, it was bound to be an interesting weekend!!!

Our first stop was the Roman Barracks and Ampitheatre in Carleon. Nestled in a tiny town and next to youth rugby fields, these Roman ruins had more than just history, they were also full of character. 

Our second stop was the Caerphilly Castle. The castle is situated on an island and has breathtaking views of the Welsh countryside. It is one of the largest castles in Great Britain and was built in 1268-1271. It is astonishing that even the walls have lasted this long! Unfortunately, we were not able to tour the great hall because a wedding reception was occurring, but seeing the men in their kilts made up for the loss!

 

 

 The wedding party bus, ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE.

I couldn't resist. 

Our 3rd and final stop on Saturday was to St. Fagan's Museum of Welsh Life. It was an expansive outdoor and indoor museum full of Welsh history. We got to sample traditional Welsh toffee and apple cider. My favorite exhibitions were the simulated Welsh villages, dating back to the Iron Age, and the pastures full of British animals! 

We were blessed with such a beautiful day!

Part 2 soon to come!

xxxxx