Focus on Wales

Published: Tuesday 6th Nov 2018

Written by: Leah Smith

Vast mountain ranges, stunning coasts and magnificent, glassy lakes – Wales is the perfect setting for your next getaway. Head to one of the region’s fine cities, to spend days shopping in boutiques and sightseeing some of the country’s most impressive cultural hotspots. Visit the many local villages, where you’ll find festive markets in the winter months and mouth-watering regional dishes all year round. Or, simply sit back and relax on a golden beach beside an azure bay and spot schools of dolphins. Wherever you find yourself in the ‘Land of the Dragon’, make the most of your holiday with our truly local blog.

Iconic peaks and Art Deco dining  – North Wales, Anglesey, and the Llŷn

A breathtaking mountain pass

Bwlch y Groes, or ‘Pass of the Cross’, is one of the highest mountain passes in Wales, running from Lake Vyrnwy to Dinas Mawddwy. Once known as the most challenging climb in the Milk Race round-Britain cycle, it’s not a route for the faint-hearted. But, if you make the journey, you’ll be rewarded with countless breath-taking views and awe-inspiring sights. If you’d prefer to take it a little easier, spend a long day hiking the hills, or simply take a slow drive through the pass.

A magical seaside restaurant

Dylan’s restaurant in Criccieth is Welsh dining at its finest. Celebrating local produce with their menu of mouth-watering dishes, from Menai Mussels to award-winning Welsh meat, it’s the perfect spot to get a truly local taste of Wales. And with stunning views across the bay and beach towards Harlech and Criccieth castles, it’s a magical place to dine by the sea.  

Heading To Anglesey or Llandudno? Dylan’s have restaurants in these iconic destinations too. 

Azure bays and captivating countryside – West Wales and Cardigan Bay

The lush, wonder of Wales

Tucked away in the beautiful Carmarthenshire countryside in the southwestern region of the country, you’ll find the National Botanical Gardens of Wales. Within its grounds, you’ll discover a world of captivating themed gardens, the world’s largest, single-span glasshouse and a national nature reserve. With an inspiring collection of over 8000 plant varieties, there’s no question why it’s been voted the number one garden to visit in Wales. Alongside the colourful and exotic flora, there are play areas for children, a tropical butterfly house, and stunning collection of hawks, British raptors, eagles, and more, in the newly added British Birds of Prey Centre. Rain or shine, this is a family-friendly adventure that we can’t get enough of.

Mediterranean dining 

Whether you’re heading out for a family feast, a catch-up with old friends, or a romantic meal with the one you love, why not try a taste of the Mediterranean right here in Wales. Ultra Comida is a deli and restaurant that serves a delicious selection of Spanish tapas, classic tortillas and Barra Gallega - a rustic fresh baguette - in the picturesque town of Narberth. Or, share a traditional Italian pizza at Pizzatipi. Wood-fired handmade pizzas, cakes and bakes, Welsh craft beers and candlelit dining all combine to create an unmissable experience alongside the River Teifi. The dishes might not be local in origin, but they’re all lovingly made right here in the Land of the Dragon, and they truly are local gems. 

The Marches and the waterfall – Mid Wales

Borderside beauty

We’ve raved about Checkers for years, a Michelin star dining experience in the quaint town of Montgomery. But the iconic restaurant is just one of the reasons you should visit this beautiful, and historic, town. Just a mile west from the English-Welsh border, Montgomery was built around a Norman stone castle and was once an important foothold for controlling the nearby ford. Now, you can find the crumbling remains of the fort to the south, and a rich history within the winding streets of the town built around it. Traditional Georgian buildings, age-old war memorials, and tales of highway robbers, Montgomery is a must-visit destination for history lovers.

Cascading waters

One of the tallest waterfalls in Britain, the Pistyll Rhaeadr cascades through its self-made crevices for over 240-feet. Tucked away in the vast, and breath-taking Berwyn Mountains, this natural-forming fall has been named one of the ‘Seven Wonders of Wales’, and you’re said to find instant peace if you rest at its base. An idyllic spot for a gentle hike, you can stop for a cup of tea, a light snack or a delicious meal at the Tan-y-Pistyll - little house under the waterfall - before wandering along one of the many local trails.

Whether it’s just the two of you or the whole crew, a relaxing seaside break or rural adventure, Wales is a holiday destination that has something for everyone. And with our truly local knowledge, we’ll help you and your loved ones to enjoy a holiday you’ll never forget. Mountains or beaches, historic town or modern metropolis, our local teams can help you make the most of your time together. Make life-long memories in Wales with the ones you love.


Leah Smith
Leah Smith

Author

Marketing Executive

 

Original Cottages - Truly local, wherever you stay

 


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