Wales is an extraordinary country, with a lot of unique culture and traditions. And myths.

So, it's no wonder that there are so many unusual things to see and do when you're there. Here are some of them in this guide.

Unusual things to do in Wales

Animal Wall at Cardiff Castle in Wales

There is a lot of popular affection for the Cardiff Animal Wall, which has been part of Cardiff Castle since 1892.

If you visit the city, don't miss the chance to visit this wall located in the middle of it, which includes a selection of creatures including a bear, hyena, monkey, lion and seal.

Wales

Animal Wall at Cardiff Castle

Portmeirion Village in Wales

It is a quaint Italianate village in Chembur Wales that is a real must see.

It was created by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, an architect, who aspired to bring Mediterranean architecture to Wales.

He achieved that and more, as the village took on a character of its own, and the result was surreal and beautiful, with architectural designs that became more prominent as the days went by.

Portmeirion Village

Cardiff Castle

Taking a tour around fort Empty at Night is enough to give you a big dose of excitement, fantasy and fear.

This is the case when you take the dedicated “ghost tour” around the castle, where you are told stories of ghosts, deaths, murders and mysteries that have occurred over the years.

It's also a great way to see the castle in a completely different way, thanks in large part to the enthusiastic and entertaining guides.

Wales

Cardiff Castle

Marina Tower Observatory

This observatory on the Swansea coast is a stunning building with its Art Deco dome.

Designed by architect Robin Campbell, it was used by the local astronomical community to observe the sky and educate people about astronomy.

In 2010, it was closed to the public, but is now reopening as a café and restaurant.

Marina Tower Observatory

Dinosaur footprints in South Wales

In rocky basins on a modest beach in South Wales lie well-preserved relics of the prehistoric past.

The dinosaur footprints are found in two groups, one lower and one higher on the beach, and include three-toed footprints from small dinosaurs that walked on their hind legs, and some four-toed footprints from plant-eating dinosaurs.

Wales

dinosaur footprints

Whiteford Lighthouse

This dramatic and beautiful lighthouse is found in a beautiful part of the Welsh coast.

Best seen up close by walking up to it at low tide, it is a valuable and rare example of iron architecture.

Whiteford Lighthouse

Gelert's Tomb

Legend has it that a Welsh prince named Llywelyn had a beloved dog named Gelert.

One day when he returned home, Lewin found blood in his infant son's room, an empty crib, and Gellert also covered in blood.

Thinking that his faithful dog had attacked his child, the prince plunged his sword into Gelert's heart, only to hear the cries of his healthy son.

Then he finds the body of a large wolf – killed by Gelert to protect the boy. The grave is marked by a stone monument, a short distance south of the village of Bedgelert.

Wales

Gelert's Tomb