‘Tis the season of reunions and memories made to last a lifetime – but why stick to the script? This winter, write your own festive fable and escape to our magical corner of Wales.
It can be all too easy to fall into the same routine as Christmas comes around again, and the stresses, chaos and obligations of the season can strip a little of the magic away. Whether you’re thinking about battening down the hatches in a getaway for two or pulling out all the stops with a glittering whole clan affair, let loose and disconnect in one of our truly unique spaces. Let your Yuletide sparkle be restored.
Flee the role of host
As you escape to a seashore shack for two, picture the seclusion and shrugging off of the pressure of the season. With just a couple of mouths to feed, there is festive fare aplenty. Seek out Beaumaris Christmas Artisan Market for a piping mug of spiced mulled wine and a bite before you take refuge against the chill in your very own town bolthole. Our resident foodie Ceri’s pick is the iconic Melin Llynon in Holyhead, who are hosting slices of baked heaven this Christmas with their sought-after patisserie events.
If hunkering down indoors is more your thing, seasonal favourites like fresh prawn cocktail and crispy thyme roast potatoes, as well as panoramic views of the Anglesey coastline, are served up at The Tavern on The Bay. It might just be the perfect place to while away a dreamy winter evening.
If you’re planning a grander gathering for the end of year celebrations, wallow in the comfort and space of some of our bigger boltholes, like the majestic Highground or interior lover’s delight The Papered House, tucked away with the people who mean the most. Skip the washing up and pre-order the full spread with a Dylan’s hamper for your arrival. Locally sourced and homemade, the team will package up and deliver to your doorstep, fuss-free and sure to bring full bellies. Ideal for filling up after soaking up the spirit of the season with a wee dram in Aber Falls Whiskey Distillery.
In your element
Get togethers can mean hunting for a crowd-pleasing activity – but North West Wales can help your crew reach for the wild. For those brave enough, our wild swimmer Caroline heartily recommends a traditional New Year’s Day dip at Newry beach or Trearddur Bay on Anglesey. Sure to soothe a sore head and blow away the cobwebs!
Those who would rather stay wrapped up would feel right at home at the South Stack Cliffs. This stunning clifftop reserve is home to breathtaking wildlife – slip on your sturdiest boots and hunt out guillemots, razorbills and puffins.
For a vista only soaked up from Anglesey shores, head for the north west of the island and stay in Cable Cottage. An enchanting place tucked away on a secluded and rugged bay, with two steps you can find yourself soaking up the twilight sun of darker days as it illuminates the Anglesey blue stone of this coastline beautifully.
So, as the dark starry skies of North West Wales sparkle by night and roil by day, corks pop and fizz flows, what journey will you embark on this season? Wrap up warmly, bring your loved ones and soak up the festive spirit from this Christmas to New Year and beyond.
Find your festive bolthole here.
