As flowers outstretch their petals and hibernating creatures stir from slumber, there’s no better place to experience the magic of spring awakening than North Wales. From floral symphonies to dazzling dark skies, here’s our guide to making the most of a brand-new season.
Magical trails less travelled
We’re spoilt for choice in Wales with flora and fauna bursting with colour, from daffodils to snowdrops, bluebells and primrose. To see all these and more in blossom, zip up a fleece and take our favourite walk from Menai Bridge to Bangor University where you can explore the Treborth Botanic Garden. This hidden jewel hasn’t quite reached the tourist grapevine, so you can expect a quiet stroll through six diverse glasshouses – from tropical to orchid to carnivorous plants – set against the garden’s grounding Buddhist sculptures.
Across the Strait on Anglesey is a more conspicuous treasure – the 16th century Plas Newydd House and Garden. The house’s grade I listed landscape boasts vibrant gardens and 129 acres of thriving woodland. Here, you’re likely to spot a choir of local wildlife including the bushy red squirrel!
But why stop at just a visit? Stay in Ysgubor Wennol - a delightfully converted barn - which sits right on the edge of the Plas Newydd Estate. Framed by calming trees and wildflowers with its very own porch, there’s no better place to wrap up in a warm blanket and melt into your morning coffee.
Casting your line
Closer to the coast, there’s opportunity aplenty for those partial to a spot of fishing – with a valid licence of course! Find angler’s delight on the Menai Strait, renowned for its fishing culture and local seafood, before settling in for the evening at our waterside cottage Glan Y Mor.
Or, over on the Llŷn Peninsula, wander down to Nefyn Beach to sit amongst the history of ancient monks and pilgrims as you wait for a bite from bass, plaice, and mackerel. Reel in the day by preparing your catch in the kitchen of Hen Bost Nefyn – our apartment for two just a couple of minutes from the beach.
Though it’s more than possible to fish from the end of a pier, we would recommend heading out on a boat for the full sea fishing experience! With departures from Beaumaris Bay, Starida are well regarded and offer half or full-day trips for angling enthusiasts, as well as family excursions. In spring, you can expect to fish for herring, thornbacks, whiting and dabs, with most plentiful catches from April onwards.
Dreamy dark skies
Did you know? North Wales is ranked amongst the best UK spots to see the northern lights, and we can see why! With clear skies and high vantage points, it’s the ideal location to gaze through colourful auroras towards the North Pole.
Astronomers describe autumn, winter and spring as the ‘observing seasons’ – the best times of year to enjoy the night sky. As the spring days get warmer but remain short, solo stargazers or curious families can head out early to catch a glimpse, whilst still being back in time for supper. The northern lights are most active during the Spring Equinox and Winter Solstice, so March and April are key months to keep an eye out!
For the best chance of catching the full spectacle, remember to stay away from artificial lights – including houses and streetlights. We’d recommend bundling up and heading to high altitude if you can and if it’s safe to do so. Sitting at the gateway of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Mount Pleasant is the ultimate bolthole for larger groups wishing to tackle North Wales’s highest peak. Or on Anglesey, try Beachcomber’s, Borthwen Barns or Cable Cottage.
Nature-fuelled family joy
Don your wellies and best specs for a woodland walking trail in Newborough Forest! A great way to keep little ones curious, hop along and follow clues to solve the animal trail puzzle. With plenty of nooks and crannies to lose yourself in along the way, it’s a wonderful excuse to spend time exploring nature. Once tuckered out, it’s just a short drive back to Cae Coch to indulge in a closing hot chocolate treat by the fire. And not forgetting Llyn Parc Mawr, which is another wonderful place to spot tufty red squirrels amongst the woodland whilst sitting hushed at picnic tables.
As spring unfurls its wonders across Anglesey and beyond, seize the chance to immerse yourself in the area’s natural beauty and diverse experiences. Whether it's serene gardens, coastal pursuits, or celestial marvels, North Wales has it all. Ready for your next adventure?
Explore our boltholes to find your next escape.
