Cardiff, Dean Forest Railway and Welsh Border Wine Tasting

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service then on to the 4-star St. Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club near Chepstow for a four-night stay.

Our scenic trip today follows the winding route of the picturesque Wye Valley along the banks of the River Wye, which forms the border between Wales and England. We reach Monmouth, where there will be free time to explore this historic town. Well known for its iconic 13th century gatehouse bridge, Monmouth has a famous past and is renowned for its independent shops and being the UK's first Bee Town.

We continue to Ross-on-Wye; enjoy a saunter along the town's 19th century mock Gothic walls, and admire the pastel painted buildings that are scattered across the hillside.

Later in the day we join the Dean Forest Railway which runs through beautiful woodlands and countryside, giving you chance to experience the relaxing pace of this typical country branch line.

This morning we visit White Castle Winery – a family-owned vineyard, where we take a tour and enjoy a tasting of the award-winning wines produced here. White Castle is home to the first Welsh wine ever to win a gold award, beating competition from France, America and around the world in a blind tasting test.

Later, we return to the hotel where the remainder of the day will be at leisure to relax.

Enjoy a trip to Cardiff, Wales' compact capital city. From its historic castle to the modern imposing Principality Stadium, it is a delight to explore.

There's a host of Victorian shopping arcades with inviting independent shops and cafés, and the vibrant waterfront area is perfect for watching the world go by. You could also visit the popular Cardiff Market; located in an impressive Victorian structure, this market has been trading in one form or another since the 1700s – it is truly the beating heart of the city.

Return home.