Up-and-coming Holiday Destinations in Wales

From Pembrey and Llanfair Caereinion to the charming Welsh island of Anglesey, here’s a look at three of the hottest up-and-coming holiday destinations in Wales this year.

1) Pembrey

With eight miles of golden sands, edged by a belt of sand dunes, forestry and grasslands, Pembrey beach forms part of the Pembrey Country Park which is perfect for a huge range of activities, including hiking, walking, nature trails. There are clear panoramic views across Carmarthen Bay to the Gower and Carmarthenshire coast. The highlights include Port Eynon, a perfect family beach with a wide expanse of golden sand and rock pools to explore, plus three castles – Kidwelly Castle; Llansteffan Castle and the magnificent medieval castle-turned-Tudor mansion Laugharne Castle.

• Who goes: Families who enjoy adventure and discovery
• What to pack: bikes and picnic baskets
• Where to stay: For properties in Pembrey, click here

2) Llanfair Caereinion

A charming Victorian town in Montgomeryshire’s Banwy Valley, Llanfair Caereinion is a one of the smallest towns in Mid Wales, and also one of the most beautiful. The highlights include riding the eight-mile-long narrow guage railway to Welshpool, which passes through glorious countryside. There are 17 nature reserves throughout the region showcasing the beautiful habitats and species the county has to offer. Walkers are spoilt for choice with plenty of scenic walks and national trails including Glyndwr’s Way and Offa’s Dyke.  Nearby Dolforwyn Castle was the last castle to be built by Llewelwyn (the Last Prince of Wales), between 1273 and 1277 and Powis Castle, which started life as a medieval fortress, is a must for its beautiful gardens.

• Who goes: Walkers, bird watchers, anglers and history lovers
• What to pack: Binoculars and walking boots
• Where to stay: For properties in Llanfair Caereinion, click here

3) Anglesey

The charming island of Anglesey on the north-west tip of Wales has been thrust into spotlight ever since Prince William and his bride Kate settled into married life here. But the HRH’s are just a small part of Anglesey’s attractions. Anglesey is teeming with quirky, independent shops selling unique pieces like art, jewellery and ceramics as well as locally-made food. Castle Street in Beaumaris is the ideal place to start. Anglesey Farmers’ Market, held every third Saturday of the month, brings all the best local food producers together under one roof. Look out for established stars like Halen Môn, who supply eight of the world’s top 50 restaurants with their sea salt from the Menai Strait, Y Cwt Caws, producers of award-winning cheeses from their herd of rare goats and Island Cupcakes which are still baked in an oven at home. Anglesey has 26 award-winning beaches that range from long sandy beaches and little bays to sheltered coves like Porth Dafarch, one of The 40 Best British Beaches according to The Times. Families are exceptionally well catered with in Anglesey with Pili Palas Nature World, the beachside Foel Farm and Anglesey Sea Zoo. Visit in October for the annual Oyster Festival.

• Who goes: Beach lovers and shoppers
• What to pack: A bikini and your appetite. Leave room in your case for your shopping exploits!
• Where to stay:For properties in Anglesey, click here