The best Welsh views this spring

As the cries of the Six Nations crowds become a memory and you finally remove that eighth layer of clothing, it is clear that spring is officially here, bringing with it a little more sun and a lot more of an appreciation for the great outdoors.

 

In celebration of the new season, we’ve selected some of the most attractive views of the Welsh landscape you can enjoy this spring, and some places to stay.

 

Mountains

 

Keen skiers may see the start of spring as the prime time to head to the Alps, but there are a lot of high points in Wales that will be kinder to your muscles and bank account. In fact, Wales has more than 138 mountains. The highest, Mount Snowdon, in North Wales, is visible from the bedroom windows of Porth Tocyn Hotel in Abersoch, so if you’re not into extreme sports like abseiling you can still capture its majesty through a camera lens while savouring breakfast in bed.

 

The Valleys

 

Picture: @TheBearAtCrick

 

There are few better places to walk off that final Easter egg than the rural Welsh countryside. Described by Visit Wales as “the heart and soul of Wales”, The Valleys of South Wales with their extensive walking routes offer a relaxing alternative to city life. Stretch your legs across rolling hills and fresh blankets of grass, or take a more challenging route over rocky terrain. The Bear Hotel is just a short drive from the heads of the valleys, and may help take the weight off your feet afterwards.

 

Gardens

 

 

Picture: @thefalcondale

 

If your best efforts at gardening have been somewhat hampered by the winter frost, you can enjoy new blooms and fresh foliage in the grounds of multiple hotels and National Trust properties alike. Many of these gardens are free to visit and picnic-friendly, but when exploring the gardens at The Falcondale, a country mansion just outside Lampeter, try a roast celtic beef sandwich with horseradish and a glass or two of something fizzy from their handpicked wine menu. There’s also 14 acres of lawns and woodlands to roam around, and dogs are just as welcome.

 

Coast/Seaside

Picture: @Fairyhill_Hotel

 

Wales is home to some of the most unspoilt coastlines and picturesque beaches in the UK, despite not having the best reputation for its sunny weather. One of its highlights is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, voted as the world’s second best coastal destination in 2012 by National Geographic. Also worth a visit is Swansea’s Gower Peninsula, which provided inspiration for much of Dylan Thomas’ poetry. Populated by surfers for its strong waves and high tides, the Gower also has 188 sq km of sandy grasslands and inviting country pubs, ideal for blowing away the last of the winter cobwebs.

On the table

 

 

Picture: @HolmHouseHotel

 

Although not quite in the same vein as the country’s natural landmarks, Welsh Cakes are still a welcome sight. These shortbread delicacies are a staple for any lunchbox or picnic basket, especially on St David’s Day (1 March) when it would be almost bizarre not to find them on menus across the country. Enjoy them with afternoon tea at Holm House Hotel, in Penarth, or prepare some of your own for a countryside jaunt.