How Welsh Canal Holidays are More Than Just Sustainable Travel

A canal boat holiday in Wales is not only a sustainable way to travel – it also comes with other benefits, especially for health. It is a fantastic way to unwind, get out in nature, and soak up the relaxing atmosphere. 

So, instead of lying on a sun lounger all day sipping cocktails on your next holiday, why don’t you go cruising along the beautiful canals of Wales? 

Here’s how Welsh canal holidays are more than just sustainable travel.

1. Allows you to Slow Down

Work and social life can be overwhelming for many of us, and sometimes, we find the need to escape from these daily stresses. Going on a Welsh canal holiday allows you to slow down and relax, and get away from it all. So, if you want a break from your daily routine and escape the hustle and bustle, consider a canal holiday in Wales. The rhythmical movement of the water and the gushing of the wind soothe the mind to fight off stress, a great way to relax and rejuvenate. 

Studies also show that being on the water is a boon for psychological health. According to some research, people who live near the ocean are less likely to report symptoms of anxiety and depression than those who stay inland. In fact, just listening to the sounds of the water can help significantly reduce stress.

Indeed, setting sail on a relaxing Welsh canal holiday can do wonders in calming your mind and promoting stress relief. The natural calming sounds produced by the gentle crashing of the waves can wash away your stresses, lulling you into a serene and peaceful state. The soothing sounds of nature offer your brain calming signals, leaving you rejuvenated and preparing you for your daily grind.

2. It’s a Great way to Stay Fit

A canal holiday is not only good for your mental health but also for your physical health. It’s the best way to stay fit and get much-needed exercise without exerting too much effort. Rowing your canal boat can boost your heart rate, vastly improving cardiovascular health and preventing health issues like heart disease, obesity, and hypertension.

The abundant oxygen you will get when you engage in sailing activities can help improve blood flow. These benefits are enhanced further by the fresh air you can breathe while in the scenic canals of Wales. 

While Wales may not get a lot of sunlight, you can enjoy some sun when sailing in some parts of Wales. Exposure to sunlight can help the body produce more Vitamin D, an essential nutrient for the bone. Therefore, a canal boat holiday may help to keep your bones strong.

3. You Can Explore More Places in One Trip 

Another great thing about canal holidays in Wales is you can explore many beautiful places in one trip, which is very convenient. You won’t have to worry about transportation and booking separate accommodations. For instance, you can hire canal boats on the Llangollen canal to explore the many places in this area. The canal crosses the border between England and Wales on the banks of the gorgeous River Dee at the foot of the Berwyn mountain range.

The scenic Llangollen canal crosses the border between England and Wales on the banks of the gorgeous River Dee at the foot of the Berwyn mountain range. Dubbed the “gateway to Wales,” there’s plenty to discover in Llangollen. In fact, the canal itself has a rich history and used to be part of the Ellesmere Canal, established in 1791 by industrialists who owned some mining companies in the area. 

The picturesque town of Llangollen is part of a UNESCO Heritage Site along the eleven miles of scenic canal from Gledrid to the majestic Horseshoe Falls. At 41 miles long, it could take three days to cruise the canal system and its rivers.

4. Plenty of History Along the Way 

If you love history and want a peek into Wales’s rich history, you will love canal boating in Wales. These canals are rich in history, and you will discover more about the area’s rich history and heritage on your canal boating. One of the most historical areas to explore is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which dates back to 1975 when it was used as a navigable canal to transport goods across the Dee Valley in north Wales.

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a fantastic representation of canal engineering during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, encompassing a spectacular architectural masterpiece in a stunning landscape setting. The aqueduct is a  World Heritage site, including its engineering features, and the nearby Horseshoe Falls and the Chirk Aqueduct.

When sailing across Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, take the time to explore the area and enjoy some activities like walking, cycling, fishing, and paddle sports. You can also expect to spot wildlife during the journey, such as moorhens, ducks, swans, and coots. 

5. Spend Quality time with Friends and Family 

A canal holiday in Wales is a fun way to spend time with family and friends, away from the distractions of everyday life. So, if you have always wanted to take your family or friends on a fun weekend getaway, a Welsh canal holiday is perfect.

Canal boating with the family is a fantastic opportunity to spend quality time with your little ones and have fun. Many kids these days rarely see their parents due to busy work schedules. But if you want to build a healthy relationship and create a strong bond with your kids, you should spend more time with them, and the best way is to go on a Welsh canal holiday.

Boating with friends or colleagues can also come with many benefits. In fact, a canal boat in Welsh is a great way to bond with the people you work with. It’s a great way to get to know each other and learn some skills. 

Lastly, a Welsh canal holiday with friends and family is great for mental health. Plus, the best thing about this is that you don’t have to travel far, which is ideal for families with little kids.