Planning Your Holiday To Wales

Can you tell that I’m in holiday planning mode? This time I’m doing my research into trips to Wales, I’m pretty sure that the toddler will be excited by the thought of going to another country, even if it’s not by plane! Wales is somewhere that I’m guilty of never really exploring despite it not being that far from us or family members. I feel like it’s a place that I always ‘nearly’ go to; I almost went to university in Cardiff and after graduating got offered a job in South Wales but decided to head back to Devon instead. I’m sorry Wales, it’s time to make it up to you and come and visit en masse! Here are some of the places I’ve been looking at, with a little help from my friends…

To Eat

Once you’ve climbed Snowdon, take yourself off to Pen-y-Ceunant Isaf Tea House, otherwise known as the best place to get a hot drink and a bite to eat post summit! In the winter, warm yourself back up by the fire, sit back and slurp down a delicious hot chocolate… you’ve earned it!

For a family friendly atmosphere, the Cookhouse & Pub on Rhyl seafront offers a great selection to suit both little ones and big ones, with extra savings often available on their kids menus. Or for desserts that look absolutely delicious, pay a visit to The Look Glass Ice Cream Parlour in Llandudno! It was voted one of the top ten ice-cream parlours on Trip Advisor as well so it must be good.

To Stay

There’s so much to do in Wales that we want our freedom to explore so once again, self catering accommodation is where we’re looking. Bring the kids with you but leave the luxury for when they’re fast asleep with this gorgeous apartment; Llety Maes Ffynnon. Sit on the balcony overlooking the lake in your hot tub and soak away those aches from a busy day exploring Snowdonia.

To Visit

I have it on good authority that castles are Wales’ biggest attraction so let’s start with Conwy Castle. As someone that was brought up around castles that resemble green mounds (gotta love those ‘ancient forts’!), Conwy Castle is a proper castle. It’s got great views over the estuary and I know a little guy who’d love racing around the place. And after a visit why not visit the smallest house in Britain, located in Conwy… let’s hope it’s not too busy!

For me though, Wales is another beach lover’s dream with some beautiful long beaches that rival some of the best in the world. Tenby looks beautiful as does Trearddur Bay but for a little more hidden charm, apparently Red Wharf Bay is the place to try.

If you’re around Tenby then Folly Farm comes highly recommended from a number of different people, as does a visit to Pembrokeshire Llamas where you can hike with llamas! Or for even more wildlife adventures, make your way to Skomer Island, take a boat ride out to the island and see puffins in their natural habitat. Take it a step further and go to Dinoland for a dinosaur hunting adventure.

Fancy something a little different? The Sennedd in Cardiff, otherwise known as the National Assembly Building, offers tours allowing you to see what goes on from the public viewing gallery. Or use that National Trust membership (and tire out those little legs with a good run around the gardens) by visiting Plas Newydd House & Gardens which has beautiful views overlooking Snowdonia!

Which leads me to my final suggestion, is it really a trip to Wales if you don’t visit Snowdonia National Park? For walking, sightseeing, climbing or just a spot of eating, take a drive through this breathtakingly beautiful national park. If you’re feeling fit enough and the weather’s good, you can even climb Snowdon… if I can manage it, anyone can! Not feeling up to the walk? Ride the iconic Snowdon Mountain Railway to the top of the mountain for an experience like no other.

Image credits: The Looking Glass Ice Cream Parlour – Stacey, Tenby Beach – Lauren, Llama Hiking – Laura.

Thanks to the lovely Rachel, Nicola, Stacey, Lauren, Rhiannon, Natalie, Laura, Daisy and Laura for their tips and help on where best to visit. Why not check out their blogs for even more inspiration?