Caernarfon Castle is a picturesque and uniquely designed fortification with octagonal towers located in northwest Wales. King Edward I of England constructed a ring of castles surrounding the mountain of Snowdonia following his conquest of Wales in 1283. Caernarfon was the headpiece of these power symbols designed to quash the resistance to English domination. The structure was never fully finished and this makes for an excellent adventure exploring its rough passages that suddenly dead end or climbing the time worn steps to each tower. The views from the top of the walls are amazing with the fortified old town running alongside the river that has green fields rolling off in the distance. The front of the castle faces the sea and enjoying a cold pint at the old pub in the shadow of the main tower is a memorable experience you won't forget.