Wales in Style is an online guide to the treasures that make Wales a truly memorable place to visit.
Tags: Activities, Adventure, Brecon Beacons, Caernarfon, Caerphilly Castle, castle, family, Instagram, Lake Vyrnwy, landscape, Legendary, National Park, photography, Portmeirion, Smallest city, Snowdonia, St David's, Wales, Walking, Walks, Year of Legends
There are many reasons to visit Wales, the land of song, scenery and (occasionally) sunshine. But whatever the weather the Welsh landscape is a wonder to behold. Here are just seven wonders of Wales that everyone should visit.
1. Snowdonia
The rugged beauty of Snowdonia National Park, in northwest Wales, brings to mind the landscape of Middle Earth from the Lord of the Rings. The focal point of the region is Mount Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and the highest point in the British Isles south of the Scottish Highlands. This dreamy photo illustrates why Snowdonia is such a beautiful place to visit both in summer and winter.
Credit: @visitwales
https://www.instagram.com/p/BRL9S3BjFkS/?taken-by=visitwales&hl=en
2. St David’s Cathedral
This majestic cathedral is located in St Davids, Britain’s smallest city. Not only is the area beautiful, it also holds a rich history. So highly regarded was the area as a holy place, even William the Conqueror visited St Davids to pray.
Credit: @sprice_94
http://www.pictaram.com/user/sprice_94/1426845613
3. Brecon Beacons
Located in South Wales, this beautiful mountain range and National Park is not only visited by people seeking out stunning views, it is also used for a range of different activities, from mountain climbing to military training.
Credit: @paterpoet
https://www.instagram.com/paterpoet/
4. Caerphilly Castle
This medieval castle is located in the town of Caerphilly in south Wales. Constructed in the 13th century it has witnessed many battles over the centuries but is still remarkably well preserved today. As well as a popular tourist attraction and wedding venue it has even been a filming location for the popular British television show Doctor Who.
Credit: @business.wales
http://www.imgrum.org/media/1300018126205528628_1960563049
5. Lake Vyrnwy
This beautiful reservoir in Powys, Mid Wales was built in the 1880s. Its stone-built dam was the first of its kind in the world. Today, tourists visit this stunning place partly because of its award-winning sculpture trail, which started in 1995. It is also popular for a range of recreational activities, including sailing, rock climbing, cycling, walking, horse riding and hiking. It also used to be the home to the tallest tree in the UK until storms took its toll. Now another tree in the same area has taken the title of being the tallest tree in Wales.
Credit: @robert_wyn
https://twitter.com/lakevyrnwyhotel
6. Caernarfon Castle
This is another medieval fortress located in Caernarfon, in Gwynedd, northwest Wales. This World Heritage Site has a rich history. Created by King Edward I, it is considered one of the most impressive castles in Wales. Sitting on the shores of the Menai Strait with views across to Anglesey, visitors to Caernarfon will never short of things to see.
Credit: @ttownhill
http://www.instagramcn.com/ttownhill
7. Portmeirion
This is a well-known tourist village in Gwynedd, North Wales. Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the 1900s it is an Italian style village. Many writers and television producers have been inspired by this stunning town, and it provided the backdrop for the classic 1960s series The Prisoner.
Credit: @visitwales
https://www.instagram.com/p/1qErZTHRn2/?hl=en&taken-by=visitwales
These are just seven of Wales’ wonders, but there are many, many more to be found across the length and breadth of this beautiful country. Why not visit and discover a few for yourself?
Tags: cooking, drink, food, picnic, recipes, Wales, Welsh Rarebits
It’s often said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but whether you’re a man or a woman there’s something special about cooking a meal for a special someone.
So, this Valentine’s Day, why not try one of our romantic recipes, guaranteed to warm your heart and fill your stomach!
Baked Organic Golden Cenarth
You’ve heard of baked Camembert, and who doesn’t love gooey cheese, but why not try the Welsh version?
Serves: 2
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 20 mins
Ingredients:
1 organic Golden Cenarth cheese, plastic cover removed
A loaf of sourdough or ciabatta
A tablespoon of olive oil
Method:
Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/Gas 6. Place the cheese in its wooden packaging on a baking tray, secured with string to prevent leakages.
Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese begins to bubble. Meanwhile slice and lightly toast the bread under the grill.
To add something extra to the dish, serve with a roasted whole bulb of garlic or some red onion chutney.
Rack of Welsh lamb with a herb crust served with bubble and squeak, shallots and a red wine jus
You can’t have a list of Welsh recipes without including delicious lamb. This recipe sounds a lot, but it’s surprisingly easy and bound to impress.
Serves: 4 (or two with plenty of leftovers)
Prep: 40 min
Cook: 45 mins
Ingredients:
1 double rack of lamb ‘French’ trimmed - fat removed and bones cleaned (your butcher will do this if you ask nicely)
A tablespoon Welsh grain mustard
25g (1oz) fresh dried breadcrumbs
Chopped fresh herbs
Half a pint of lamb stock
1 glass of full-bodied red wine
6 potatoes for mashing - King Edwards are ideal
6 leaves of Savoy cabbage
1 small onion
12 small shallots
Knob of Welsh butter
Dash of olive oil
Salt and pepper
2 sprigs of rosemary to garnish
Method:
Make mash by boiling peeled and chopped potatoes for 20 minutes, drain and mash until light and fluffy.
Slice cabbage and boil for 2 minutes, cool and squeeze dry.
Peel and finely dice onion, sauté in a small knob of butter. When cool mix the potatoes, cabbage and onion together with seasoning and form into ‘cakes’ ready to pan fry later.
Coat the trimmed racks - cut into 4 portions - with the mustard and seasoning, then cover with the herbs and breadcrumbs which have been mixed together. Place in a roasting tray, drizzle with olive oil and roast in a hot oven for 12 to 15 minutes for medium or 20 minutes plus for medium to well done.
While the racks are roasting reduce the red wine and stock by half, remove lamb and let rest for 2-3 minutes in a warm place, add any juices from the roasting tray to the jus and pass into another pan, adding a small knob of butter to give a shine to the jus.
While the racks are roasting, also pan fry the bubble & squeak for 2-3 minutes on each side and poach the peeled shallots in a dash of seasoned water with a small knob of butter for 8-10 minutes.
To assemble the dish place a bubble & squeak cake in the centre of the plate, carve the lamb into three cutlets and arrange around the cake with the glazed shallots, pour over the jus and garnish with the rosemary.
Pan-fried fillet of Welsh sea bass with shrimp butter and crushed potatoes with peas
Serves: 2
Prep: 20 mins
Cook: 20 mins
Ingredients:
2 sea bass fillets
50g fresh or frozen peas
500g new potatoes
1tsp fresh mint, finely chopped
2tbsp olive oil
Sea salt and pepper
50g fresh peeled shrimps
4 shrimps with shells for garnish
1tsp fresh dill finely chopped
2tbsp lemon juice
1tsp fresh parsley finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Put sea bass fillets on a plate and season with sea salt and pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
Boil potatoes until soft and drain. Transfer to a bowl and crush using a fork.
Boil the peas with a little sugar, salt and pepper and 1tbsp butter. Simmer until soft then drain.
Add peas to the potatoes and mix together with 2tbsp olive oil and the mint.
In a heavy based pan, melt the butter, add the shrimps, herbs and lemon juice and season to taste. Fry until cooked then set aside.
Heat a frying pan with some oil, put the fish fillets in skin side down and fry for a few minutes until the skin is brown and crispy. Turn the fish upside down and either finish under the grill or fry for a few minutes more in the pan.
Arrange the warm potatoes on a plate, put the fillet of fish on the top and finish with the butter sauce.
Garnish with the shell-on shrimps.
Bara brith bread and butter pudding
Combining two of our favourite Welsh products, this bread and butter pudding uses bara brith and contains just a splash of Penderyn whisky.
Serves: 6
Prep: 20 mins (plus cooling time)
Cook: 50 mins
Ingredients:
1 loaf of bara brith
100g caster sugar
1ltr of milk
6 eggs
60g butter
1 vanilla pod
20g brown sugar
20ml Penderyn whisky
Method:
Preheat the oven to 140 degrees. Slice the Bara Brith and spread with butter, then arrange in an ovenproof dish. Splash over the whisky and leave to soak.
Whisk the eggs, caster sugar and brown sugar in a bowl and set aside. In a saucepan boil the milk with the vanilla pod, and allow to cool. Pour the milk over the eggs and sugar and mix, and then pass this through a sieve.
Pour the liquid over the sliced bara brith until covered and bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown. Serve with either ice cream or custard.
Tags: Anglesey, Celebration, Legends, North Wales, Romance, Romantic, Santes Dwynwen, St Dwynwen, Valentine's Day, Wales, Welsh Legends, Welsh Rarebits, Year of Legends
Image Credit: Visit Wales
Every year on the 25th January we celebrate what is commonly known as the Welsh St Valentines Day.
St Dwynwen’s Day, or Dydd Santes Dwynwen, is a celebration of Wales’ patron saint of love. Dwynwen was a 4th Century Welsh princess who was unlucky in love.
Legend has it that Dwynwen was the prettiest of all of King Brychan Brycheiniog’s daughters. She fell in love with a local boy, Maelon, but was already betrothed to another prince. After telling Maelon the bad news, Dwynwen fled to the woods to lament her lost love and pray for help from God. An angel appeared to Dwynwen and gave her a potion to help her forget about Maelon, which turned him to ice. After seeing the effects of the potion on Maelon, Dwynwen prayed for help. Hearing her cries for help, God granted her three wishes; she chose to cure Maelon, have God look after all true lovers and for her to remain unmarried.
St Dwynwen’s day is considered as the most romantic day of the year in Wales, and is celebrated much the same as Valentines Day; cards are exchanged and (mostly) thoughtful presents are given.
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate the Welsh holiday, we’ve put together a few ideas to impress the significant other in your life.
Tags: bags, Christmas gifts, experience vouchers, flying, melin tregwynt, packing, packing tips, presents, top tips, useful, Welsh Rarebits, what to pack for a mini break
Buy presents that are easily transportable
Of course, it may be too late to do this but if you bear in mind how you’re going to be getting Christmas presents to people while you’re shopping it could save you time when it comes to actually transporting them. If you’re struggling for ideas, experience vouchers are a great gift. Why not get someone a stay for two in a Welsh Rarebits hotel?
You’re going to be taking Christmas knitwear, use it to wrap the presents
Despite what you might think, don’t wrap the presents in advance if possible.
If you’re flying, security officials may need to open them and ruin your hard work. This can be particularly handy when transporting presents for your own children; glitzy wrapping can attract the snooping eyes of children.
Include fragile gifts in the centre of the luggage, surrounded by clothing ideally
If you’re travelling with fragile gifts, you need to think about how they’re protected during the journey. This is especially important when flying, as baggage handlers might not handle your bags with the care that you would prefer. If you can, take fragile, expensive or rare gifts in your carry on luggage.
Pack smart
Think about how you’re going to be greeted at the end of the trip. If you’re expected to be handing presents over as soon as you get there, pack them in a way that they will be easily accessible, which will save any scrabbling around at the destination. If you’re looking for the perfect bag to take away for a Christmas weekend, take a look at these beautiful items from Melin Tregwynt.
Recruit your very own Santa Claus
If you’re travelling in a big group, it may be worth picking a designated present transporter –your very own Santa. Ideally this person will be travelling without children, and will have a fairly big car. (A beard is optional.)
Tags: accessories, bags, christmas, day wear, fashion, fashionable, jackets, office wear, party wear, shoes
Christmas is just around the corner, so it’s time to start saving for all those special gifts. Don’t worry though, that doesn’t mean it’s time to start scrimping on your wardrobe.
To make things a little easier we’ve put together three looks using the same statement dress – one for the office, a second perfect for a party, and a final look suitable for a family day out.
The Dress
Creating three individual looks that stand out from one another requires a versatile base, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be boring.
We’ve gone for this black lace dress from Next priced at £60 (that’s just £20 a look). The sheer lace detail is perfect for the party season, while the modest length means in will also work in the office.
Look one – Work wear
To ensure this look is office appropriate we’d layer the dress over some black or tan tights. Go for a slightly structured jacket like this one from mango – the tweed fabric will also add some texture to contrast with the lace. Pair with some smart black boots and you’re good to go.
Look two – Party wear
The sheer lace sleeves on this dress are perfect for a night out and show just enough skin. The detailed ruffles and high neck mean there’s no need for too many fussy accessories, so keep jewellery minimal. We’ve chosen a gold clutch and shoes to add some glamour to the look.
Look Three – Day wear
Although this dress looks great with heels for a night out, it also looks amazing dressed down. Pair it with a chunky knitted cardigan in a lighter colour to soften the look, and layer over some black tights. Finish the look with some on-trend knee high boots and you’re set.
We think our Day wear look would be perfect for a romantic winter weekend away. Why not head to Britain’s smallest city, St David’s, and explore the historic cathedral? Stay close by in the Crug Glas Country House and Restaurant and enjoy the beautiful Pembrokeshire countryside.
Tags: Activities, Adventure, Black Mountains, Caerphilly Castle, Instagram, Landscapes, Llyn y Fan Fach, Mwnt, Penarth Pier, photography, scenic, South Wales, Wales, Walking, Welsh coast, Welsh photographers, Welsh Rarebits
We may be biased but Wales truly has some of the most stunning views, picturesque places and fantastic areas of interest in the UK. There really is something for everyone to visit and stay in Wales. If you can’t get to explore Wales’ beauty in person, the next best way is through pictures. Ranging from professional Welsh photographers with a large fan base, to up-and-coming Instagrammers that offer a glimpse into everyday life in Wales, we’ve selected a handful of our favourite Instagram accounts that show the country in all its glory and are all definitely worth a follow.
1. @buxtonc
Understated yet spectacular shots from Chris Buxton who is based in Wales. These images are sure to take your breath away and make you want to visit all the beautiful places Chris photographs, for example Llyn y Fan Fach (right), a lake in South Wales.
2. @suesmithpics
Focusing on people, nature and landscapes, this Instagram account gives an insight into life in the Rhondda Valleys. Susanne Smith captures this area of Wales beautifully.
3. @finn
Award-winning photographer Finn Beales is based in the Black Mountains of Wales. Although he posts photos of all his travels, Finn’s posts of his home landscape are truly captivating.
4. @katieonthehill
On Instagram Katie Jones showcases clear and bright photography of some of the top destinations to visit in south Wales, including Penarth Pier (image 1) and Caerphilly Castle (image 2).
5. @willbendall
Will Bendall shows off his skills by picturing secret spots across Wales. Take Mwnt Beach in Cardigan Bay for example (image 2), possibly one of the most beautiful places to visit on West Wales’ Coast.
6. @arian_fp
Who wouldn’t want to see gorgeous pictures of Wales’ scenery featuring a loveable little beagle? Heddwyn James explores beautiful Wales alongside little pal Megan, such as Dunraven Bay (image 1) and Dunraven Castle Gardens (image 2).
7. @thedimmick
Steve Dimmick captures family life in Wales in all its glory, focusing on days out with his family in places such as Coed Y Nant Parc (image 1) and the Taff Trail (image 2) in Cardiff.
8. @nadyacandy
Specialising in stunning sunset and beach photography, Nadya Candy is based in Ogmore-by-Sea, Vale of Glamorgan; we definitely want to stay here! #sunsetstodiefor
9. @owenwarrell
Wedding photographer Owen Warrell offers a sweet glimpse into everyday life in Pembrokeshire. Little Haven Beach in Pembrokeshire is a must-visit (image 1).
10. @giddygavin
Giddy Gavin, based in Harlech, adds shots of colour to his posts to bring out the charm of Wales. One of our favourites is his little vintage car in front of Snowdonia (image 2), an ideal place to visit to get the full Wales experience.
To visit these locations yourself, check out our places to stay
Tags: accessories, bags, fashionable, holiday, jackets, melin tregwynt, mini break, packing, packing tips, stylish, useful, Wales, what to pack for a mini break
We bring you the most useful (yet stylish) bags and jackets from Melin Tregwynt for Your Mini Break in Wales.
When going on a weekend break it can sometimes be a little stressful packing. From what type of bag to take with you that fits all your essentials in, to trying to find the perfect outfit that keeps you warm yet remains fashionable, there are lots of tough choices to make. Our friends at Melin Tregwynt woolen mill offer a range of bags to make your weekend break stress-free, along with a range of jackets and accessories to keep you cosy when exploring Wales’ beautiful scenery. All of the bags and jackets are ideal for travelling light yet stylishly for weekend-length breaks.
BAGS
The Weekender
The Weekender offers plenty of room for all of your belongings. It has matching leather handles, a carry strap and internal zip pocket. This is the ideal size for a mini-break in the stunning countryside of Wales.
Classic Handbag
This classic zipped handbag is fully lined and long enough to fit over the shoulder. Featuring two internal leather pockets and a leather base for protection, this is the perfect size to accompany you to the local pub while discovering Wales’ fabulous food and drink.
Laptop Bag
Spacious and satchel-style, this shoulder bag made for the office is roomy enough for a laptop and all your office essentials. The laptop bag has a leather base, leaving you with no worries about how many important files you may need to take away with you on a working weekend in Wales.
Mini Clutch
Ideal for an evening stroll along the picturesque Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, this clutch can be used in a larger handbag or on its own as a versatile little clutch bag or purse. Using the wrist strap in coordinating leather adds elegance to any outfit.
Clasped/zipped Purses
Melin Tregwynt’s range of clasped and zipped purses are ideal for some change, credit cards and your go-to lippy. An essential for any trip you may take during your relaxing weekend away.
The following bags are still available from Melin Tregwynt but are limited in stock, so hurry if you want to get your hands on them:
Backpack
A cleverly designed shoulder bag that turns into a backpack by a simple adjustment of the leather straps, this is an ideal day-to-night accessory.
Cross Body Bag
If you are looking for a smaller bag, this shoulder bag is a neat option. With a long adjustable cross body strap, the bag allows you to keep your essentials on you but not be weighted down.
Tablet Pouch
With Wi-Fi now available in most hotels, a tablet is ideal to take away with you on a weekend break. This pouch will keep your tablet protected with its padded cover and leather trim.
Everyday Carryall
This everyday carryall bag is made from upholstery fabric and bridle-leather trim, making it strong and sturdy for all of your needs.
JACKETS / COATS
From exploring Wales’ historic scenes to strolling along the coast, Melin Tregwynt has got you covered with its range of jackets and coats.
Nehru Jacket
A simple sleeveless jacket in semi-plain fabric with fleece-lined mandarin collar, this will quickly become one your wardrobe favourites It is practical, easy and warm while effortlessly chic.
Hacking Jacket
An understated classic jacket, in a fitted ¾ length style that finishes low hip. This is a versatile jacket that will go with pretty much anything.
Norfolk Jacket
A single breasted, belted and fully lined long jacket with roomy expandable pockets, shoulder reinforcements and storm collar, this is the perfect jacket to explore Wales’ varied scenery, even leaving you room for your camera and binoculars.
Draped Coat
This draped coat with a flattering fit is ideal for a chilly stroll along any of Wales’ picturesque beaches. The generous and relaxed collar fastens with a large single wooden button. The inside has been left unlined apart from the sleeves to show off the beauty of the double cloth weave.
Melin Tregwynt also offers a range of beanie hats, scarfs and arm warmers to keep you extra toasty in the coming winter months. These are made by Robert Mackie of Scotland, inspired by Melin Tregwynt’s fabrics.
Melin Tregwynt is based in a historic woolen mill on the Pembrokeshire coast. All its bags are treated with Teflon to make them water and stain resistant, are trimmed or finished with leather and come in many different colours/patterns.
To fall in love with this traditional Welsh brand, head to the Melin Tregwynt website to explore their full range of products: www.melintregwynt.co.uk
Summer is finally here! However, due to the unreliable British weather any opportunity to model this summer’s fashion trends must be grasped. From statement colours to detailed patterns, we’ve created a selection of looks that will inspire your outfits this summer.
Sunset Shades
Fantasising about magical sunsets? Bring a bit of warmth to your wardrobe by introducing the intense orange and red shades of the sun. There’s no need to stick to one colour when you can go for ombre sunset shades. Whether you want to make a statement in a burnt orange dress or add a splash of colour to your outfit with some accessories, this trend is hot this summer.
Men could also model this trend with a summer shirt or a pair of swim shorts. Go for zesty yellow colours; they’re enough to brighten your day, even when the British weather doesn’t.
Florals
Florals are perfect for summer and this year is no exception. Whether you’re looking for an outfit for a wedding, a day at the races or just a casual picnic in the park, this is the perfect style to keep you on trend. If you don’t feel like going fully floral, accessories are a great way to wear the trend.
This print looks great on men too. Opt for a paisley suit in the office, or some tropical swimming shorts by the beach to ensure you’re staying stylish.
Silk
The pyjama look isn’t just for the bedroom; we’ve seen it on numerous catwalks including the likes of Givenchy and Calvin Klein. Think kimonos and loose fitting pieces - the lightweight fabric is perfect for warmer weather and oozes luxury. Silk slip dresses are a great choice if you’re feeling daring, or alternatively opt for loose-fitting shorts or trousers if you’re looking for something a little tamer. To finish off the look add some delicate strappy sandals. Heels are a must to distinguish between going out and going to bed!
Nautical
The Nautical trend has been longstanding for a reason – it’s both chic and extremely wearable. This look works for all ages and looks just as great on women as it does on men. One thing to remember is that a little goes a long way. To avoid the comic sailor look, opt for a Breton striped top paired with jeans, or a nautical skirt with a bright red lip.
All Things White
White is a colour that never goes out of fashion and can refresh any outfit. It’s perfect for a sharp office look or for a relaxed weekend away. It is also looks great on men. Go for a crisp white shirt or, if you’re confident enough, a pair of white trousers. The clean colour is key to looking classy while also keeping you cool in the heat.
Be sure to steer clear of any risky liquids to avoid embarrassing spillages!
Are you looking for a mini-moon or romantic staycation to celebrate your big day? Whether you’re getting married this summer or marking an important anniversary, we’ve listed the most exclusive honeymoon destinations right here in Wales.
Stackpole Inn
The Stackpole Inn is located in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Surrounded by beaches, headlands and cliffs it is perfect for a secluded romantic getaway. The bed and breakfast offers high quality king size rooms and award winning home cooked food. Double rooms at the Stackpole Inn start at just £90 per night. Just two miles away is the stunning Bosherston Lakes, where you can take a romantic stroll through the woodlands and visit the impressive lily ponds.
Venetia
Inspired by one of the most romantic cities in the world, the Venetia is a combination of Welsh and Italian cultures. The menu comprises Italian inspired dishes with locally sourced produce. Staying at Venetia costs between £80 and £148 per night. Venetia is situated in the fashionable resort of Abersoch, an idyllic location to take strolls at sunrise or sunset along the never-ending beaches.
Jordanston Holiday Cottages
The Jordanston Holiday Cottages are located in St Florence, near Tenby. There are a variety of cottages available, meaning you can pick the one most suited to your needs, but all offer modern kitchens and open plan living rooms. Prices for staying at the Jordanston Holiday Cottages depend on the size of the cottage, so with this in mind it could be the perfect opportunity to get together with friends for a couples holiday. The pretty harbour town and seaside resort of Tenby is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway, and many of the cottages have log fire burners, meaning you can cosy up after a day of exploring the seaside town.
Hunter Lodges
The Hunter Lodges are located in the grounds of the Celtic Manor Resort in Newport. This is the perfect place for a luxury romantic getaway with a group of friends. The Hunter Lodges are priced from £1,680 for a short break. The interiors are sophisticatedly modern, with amenities such as chill-out rooms and indoor saunas. The luxury lodges overlook the Usk Valley, meaning you will be able to take in the breathtaking views from the outdoor hot tub. Alongside this, a number of treatments are available in The Celtic Manor Resort itself, allowing you to fully relax.
Upper Gelli
Upper Gelli is located in the stunning countryside near Welshpool. This luxury lodge gives off a chic yet homely feel, allowing guests to settle down for a relaxing evening after exploring the rural surroundings. Upper Gelli prices range between £350 and £990 for a short break. Just a 20-minute drive away is Montgomery Canal, perfect for a relaxing romantic canoe ride. But if canoeing is not your thing, just a 15-minute drive away is Powis Castle, where you can explore Elizabethan-furnished rooms and grand terraced gardens before stopping for tea and cake in the tea rooms.
It’s not hard to spot wildlife in Wales thanks in part to the abundance of lush nature reserves. All year round these environments flourish, offering shelter to some amazing creatures. If you’re looking to get close to nature in the late spring then our run down of what you can spot is essential.
WHAT: Bottlenose Dolphins
WHERE: Cardigan Bay has a reputation for attracting a variety of sea creatures, but most notably it is home to the UK’s biggest pods of bottlenose dolphins. They have thrived here, which highlights the strong healthy ecosystem. The best place to spot them in the late spring is off the coast of the seaside town of Aberystwyth, before they head south towards New Quay for summer.
STAY: Gwesty Cymru is a luxurious hotel right on the seafront, with stunning views of the bay. This contemporary hotel offers a fresh inventive menu with local ingredients.
WHAT: Grey Seals & Manx Shearwater’s
WHERE: The islands of Skomer and Skokholm are home to much of Cardigan Bay’s wildlife, including an abundance of marine birds. Skomer is home to around 120,000 pairs of Manx Shearwater’s, with an estimated 45,000 on Skokholm. The two islands provide a home for the largest population of these birds currently known.
As well as the birds, Skomer offers safety to hundreds of grey seals as they gather on the island, providing entertainment for onlookers as they squabble for the best places. There are boat trips daily to Skomer, with the exception of bad weather. The website and their Twitter account are updated frequently to inform visitors of any changes.
STAY: fields Lodge is only a twenty-minute drive from the Lockley Lodge Visitor centre. This quaint B&B mixes traditional and modern stylings, offering comfort after a long day of exploring.
WHAT: Puffins
WHERE: Puffin Island, off the tip of Anglesey, has been turned into a bird sanctuary, home to a range of different seabirds including Puffins, kittiwakes and razorbills. The birds’ breeding season falls between April and July, so visiting in late spring offers the chance to see an abundance of wildlife and possibly even some early hatchers. Cruises are offered around the island, but it is advised to pre-book via the website.
STAY: Fifteen minutes drive from Puffin Island is Beaumaris’ Ye Olde Bull’s Head Inn and Townhouse, which seamlessly combines old wooden beams with contemporary décor. It is also one of the top places to eat in North Wales.
WHAT: Ospreys
WHERE: The Dyfi Valley is part of the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust. Located near the town of Machynlleth, the breeding programme in place here led to the first successful breeding of Ospreys in over 400 years. There is a 360 degree observatory allowing spectacular views of the birds in their habitats and the Dyfi Estuary beyond.
STAY: Situated between Machynlleth and Aberdyfi, Llety Brynawel is a beautiful Georgian guesthouse in a perfect location for both coast and country.
WHAT: Red Kites
WHERE: Otherwise known as the King of Wales, these large majestic birds of prey are common across the lush Welsh landscape. Rhayader is home to Gigrin Farm, where they have scheduled feedings of this magnificent birds allowing for onlookers to see them in action in their natural habitat.
STAY: Indulge in luxury after a day exploring the countryside at the Metropole Hotel, which is a short drive away in the nearby Llandrindod Wells. This impressive Victorian hotel boasts a four star rating, and also offers
