September 4: Holyhead, Wales

 Day 7:  Vintage Train Ride Into Snowdonia National Park

Today we docked in Wales - a new country for us!  We were excited to be taking a scenic train trip into the mountains and then returning by bus via a different route.  Maybe because we've been to Antarctica, Alaska, and atop the Swiss Alps....but the scenery, while good, was not breath-taking.  We thoroughly enjoyed riding through the Welsh country side, especially on a vintage train, the oldest narrow-gauge train in the world.  And to look at the video and the photos from today I'm sure you'll say "it looks great and oh-so-scenic" - but it was an eight hour day and these were the highlights.  Still.....a very good day and for us - we SO enjoyed the weather.....even when it rained it was so crisp, never out of the mid-50s (appreciated even more knowing it was a "feels-like" 110 at home); certainly we enjoyed it much more than we would have enjoyed a city tour.  Here's today's photos....

Our train has arrived!

All aboard!

Panoramic mountains of Snowdonia National Park

All that's left of what was once THE most important castle in Wales is the tower

Mountain views - up close

HUGE waterfall right out the window

Scenic valley with mountains in the mist

Clickity-clack along the railroad track.....sis - boom - bah!

This valley was utilized in shooting the "Game of Thrones" prequel, "House of Dragons" - as was much of northern Wales

Water rapids from one of the rivers near our lunch stop

The obligatory selfie at the rapids

Tomorrow we will be back in Ireland, in Belfast.  For a change our excursion isn't until 1:30 pm.  And we will be "touring the city," but not like most city tours.  Oh no my friends, we are doing a four-hour "Food Trail!"  Looking forward to another big day!

The Day's Highlights In Less Than 90 Seconds!