One of the final authentic medieval fortresses in Wales, labelled the country's 'grandest castle', is merely a stone's throw away from a thriving foodie hotspot and renowned winery.

Wales is famously known as the "land of castles" and features over 600 options for exploration. One particular stronghold you should add to your essential visit roster is Castell Rhaglan, or Raglan Castle, hailed as the "grandest castle ever built by Welshmen".

Completed in the 16th century, this palatial fortress is considered among the last genuine medieval citadels in Wales and nestles within the stunning rural landscape. As emphasised by Cadw, Raglan Castle represents no ordinary Welsh fortification and holds a crucial place in the chronicles of one of England's most renowned sovereigns.

Henry Tudor, who would later ascend to become King Henry VII, devoted substantial periods of his youth to this location. Raglan Castle also serves as a prime illustration of the evolution of castles in the 15th century, as it was designed not only for defence but also to impress.

The fortress experienced various modifications, incorporating the magnificent gatehouse and the famous 'machicolations' stone archways, employed to rain down projectiles upon assailants. Despite being erected later than numerous medieval strongholds, its blueprint possessed one central aim: to display tremendous riches and authority.

By the mid-17th century, Raglan had transformed into one of Britain's most sophisticated country residences, rivalling the nation's grandest estates. Yet its fate would soon change dramatically when civil war, raging from 1642 to 1651, devastated the mighty Raglan Castle.

During the 20th century, Cadw (Wales' historic environment agency) and earlier organisations began conservation work to protect and preserve the location. Thanks to these restoration initiatives, the fortress still provides visitors with a fascinating window into Welsh heritage and medieval design.

In sharp contrast to the crumbling castle ruins, the grounds are carefully tended, allowing guests to enjoy a scenic stroll through the historic setting. Standing atop the ridge where the fortress sits, visitors are treated to sweeping vistas across the rolling landscape - a perfect location for an after-visit picnic.

"The unmistakable silhouette of Raglan crowning a ridge amid glorious countryside is the grandest castle ever built by Welshmen," writes Cadw. The area around both the castle and Raglan village also boasts plenty of rural walking opportunities.

For local trail suggestions, simply download the AllTrails application and navigate straight from your phone. A relaxed circular walk around Monmouth takes in the ancient Monmouth Castle, the scenic Kymin lookout point, and a peaceful section of the River Wye.

For those seeking a longer waterside adventure, the trail extends from Monmouth to the spectacular panorama at Symonds Yat. Enhancing its allure, the castle sits merely a brief car journey from Abergavenny's gastronomic haven.

This vibrant market town has firmly positioned itself as a culinary hotspot, housing the craft Angel Bakery and The Walnut Tree Inn, a cherished Michelin-starred establishment with rooms overseen by renowned chef Shaun Hill. The town also features The Angel Hotel, which has earned recognition as the 'Best foodie hotel' in The Sunday Times compilation of 100 Best Places to Stay in the UK for 2025.

This distinguished roster highlights exceptional lodgings throughout Britain, spanning hotels and inns to stately homes and cosy bed and breakfasts. The Sunday Times highlights The Angel's "superpower is its gourmet offering" and observes that guests can choose seasonal fare in the Oak Room restaurant, which doubles as an art exhibition space.

Initially a coaching inn established in 1829, The Angel Hotel has transformed into a contemporary, rural-chic property renowned for exceptional dining. The upmarket, four-Silver-Star establishment has previously secured the AA Hotel of the Year accolade for Wales.

The Angel, a highly sought-after and thriving hotel, is renowned for its exceptional cuisine. The kitchen is led by Chef Wesley Hammond, who offers fine dining in The Oak Room, expertly crafted cocktails in the chic Foxhunter Bar, and award-winning afternoon tea in the Wedgewood room.

If you're planning an extended stay, why not indulge in a luxurious dinner at their restaurant? Typical dinner dishes include Llanarth Estate pheasant, Cefn Mawr Farm dry-aged beef ribeye, Wye Valley asparagus, pea and feta risotto, and an extraordinary seafood sharing platter brimming with oysters, mussels and octopus carpaccio.

They also offer a reasonably priced prix fixe (fixed-price) menu, featuring a starter and a main for just £25 per person. Savour delectable dishes like Cornish crab and saffron arancini, tagliatelle with venison ragu, and smoked haddock with potato and spinach.

Seasonal dining options are available throughout the year, including an outdoor kitchen serving pizza in the summer and a pop-up après-ski bar in December.

Elsewhere in Abergavenny, there's a charming circular walk around Castle Meadows and through the vibrant Linda Vista Gardens. If you're up for a bit more of a challenge, the Sugarloaf Walk begins in the town and ascends right up to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Another rewarding climb is Skirrid Fawr, a 486-metre peak in Bannau Brycheiniog offering breathtaking views from the summit. There are also numerous attractions and places to visit near the castle, including Raglan Farm Park and The Dell Vineyard, a quaint, family-run vineyard near Raglan known for its award-winning wines.

Another delightful vineyard in this region is Sugar Loaf Vineyards, a small vineyard nestled on Sugar Loaf Mountain that offers tours, tastings, a coffee shop and holiday lets. After your castle and vineyard tour, why not head over to nearby Abergavenny, often referred to as the 'Gateway to Wales', for lunch and a bit of retail therapy?