Campervan Hire Alcester Warwickshire
campervan hire ·

Hire a VW Campervan and Road Trip Through Wales

Hire a VW Campervan and Road Trip Through Wales | Snowdon to Black Rock Sands

Wales might be small, but it packs a punch. From the jagged peaks of Snowdonia to the wide-open beaches of the Llyn Peninsula, there’s no better way to explore it than in a VW campervan from Play Dirty.

This route takes you from Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) — the highest mountain in Wales — through winding passes, ancient forests, and mountain lakes, finishing at Black Rock Sands, one of the only beaches in the UK where you can drive your campervan straight onto the sand.

If you’re looking for mountain adventures, wild swims, and coastal sunsets — this is it.

Why Road Trip Wales in a VW Campervan?

Hiring a campervan gives you the freedom to explore Wales at your own pace — and get off the beaten track.

  • Remote parking spots near mountain lakes or sea cliffs

  • Wild camping in hidden valleys and forest lay-bys

  • All-in-one setup — bed, kitchen, heating and storage in one

  • Unpredictable weather? You’ll be warm and dry inside your van

With a Play Dirty campervan, you're ready for whatever the Welsh weather throws at you — rain, wind or sunshine (sometimes all three in an hour).

The Ultimate Wales Road Trip: Snowdon to the Sea

This route is ideal for 3–5 days, covering the best of North Wales in a tight, adventure-filled loop.

1. Start in Llanberis – Gateway to Snowdon

Best for: Mountain climbing, hiking, historic slate towns

Park up at Llyn Padarn or in one of Llanberis’s quieter lay-bys and start your Welsh adventure under the shadow of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). The Llanberis Path is the most accessible route up the mountain — 9 miles round-trip with jaw-dropping views from the summit on a clear day.

Don’t fancy the hike? Jump on the Snowdon Mountain Railway and let the train do the work.

While in Llanberis:

  • Visit the National Slate Museum

  • Wild swim in Llyn Padarn

  • Grab a Welsh cake and a strong coffee before you hit the road

2. Drive the Llanberis Pass to Beddgelert

Best for: Dramatic roads, riverside walks, legends

Leaving Llanberis, follow the A4086 through the Llanberis Pass — one of the most scenic drives in the UK. Sheer cliffs rise on both sides and mist clings to the rock faces. This is Wales at its most cinematic.

Stop in Beddgelert, a storybook village built around a legend. Follow the riverside walk to Gelert’s Grave, have lunch at a traditional pub, and park up at one of the nearby forestry car parks or quiet campsites.

3. Nant Gwynant & Llyn Dinas

Best for: Hidden swimming spots, forest walks

Follow the road from Beddgelert toward Nant Gwynant and you'll find yourself in a valley of waterfalls and ancient oak woods. Stop at Llyn Dinas or Llyn Gwynant for a swim or paddleboard session. Both spots have wild feel with options for lakeside camping.

Llyn Gwynant campsite is van-friendly and perfectly placed for early morning swims with mountain views.

4. Over the Pass to Harlech Castle

Best for: Sea views, castle ruins, history

Climb out of the valley on the A498 and A496 toward Harlech. This road skirts the edge of Snowdonia, with the Irish Sea stretching out to your right and mountains to your left.

Harlech Castle sits dramatically on a rocky crag above the coast — a UNESCO World Heritage Site with commanding views and serious history.

Stop for:

  • A tour of the castle

  • A walk through the dunes of Harlech Beach

  • Ice cream at the base of the old town

5. End at Black Rock Sands

Best for: Driving on the beach, sunset barbecues, paddleboarding

Finish your trip with your wheels on the sand at Black Rock Sands, near Porthmadog. It’s one of the few beaches in the UK where vehicles are allowed directly on the beach, making it a campervan dream.

Park up, pop the roof, and cook your dinner with the sea in front of you and mountains behind. Wake up to waves lapping metres from your van doors.

Tip: Get there late afternoon to avoid the crowds and catch a proper Welsh sunset.

What to Pack for Your Wales Campervan Trip

  • Walking boots – the trails are steep, muddy, and worth every step

  • Wetsuit or swim gear – wild swimming in lakes or sea

  • Warm layers – it cools down quickly at night

  • Waterproofs – it’s Wales

  • Portable BBQ & surfboard – optional, but highly recommended

Why Hire from Play Dirty?

At Play Dirty, our VW campervans are built for real adventure — not just the motorway. Whether you're parking in a forest lay-by or sleeping on the sand, you’ll have everything you need onboard.

  • Full insulation & diesel heating

  • Gas hobs, fridge, running water

  • Storage for boots, wetsuits, and gear

  • Optional roof racks, solar, and bike carriers

  • Off-grid power setups

Wales Road Trip Quick Tips

  • Avoid school holidays for quieter campsites and roads

  • Wild camp respectfully – follow Leave No Trace principles

  • Take cash – not every car park or café takes cards

  • Check road gradients – some Welsh passes are steep and tight

Ready to Explore North Wales?

If you’re looking for a road trip that combines mountains, lakes, beaches and complete freedom — Snowdon to Black Rock Sands delivers. And with a Play Dirty VW campervan, you get the freedom to do it your way.

Back to News