ROMANTIC GETAWAYS IN WALES
Sure, you could go to Paris or cruise round the Med. But for a truly unique Valentine’s Day, could you get any more romantic than a staycation in Wales? Buzz picks out some Welsh destinations for a candlelit dinner or a weekend away.
ROCH CASTLE, HAVERFORDWEST
This castle is located just a 20-minute drive from St Davids, with free transfers on offer each evening. The venue is no stranger to the limelight, with past celebrity guests including Tom Cruise. If you’re keen to explore Pembrokeshire with your loved one, or perhaps catch a glimpse of an A-lister, this is the place to be. An exclusive Valentine’s Day offer can be pre-booked online which includes a seven-course tasting menu.
Info: www.rochcastle.com
PORTMEIRION, GWYNEDD
Step into a slice of romantic continental Europe in this Italian Riviera-style village on the north-west coast of Wales. Famously featuring in the 60s cult series {The Prisoner}, the quirky seaside village – which doesn’t have any permanent residents – is a one-of-a-kind destination in the UK. There is a cost to entering the village, but you can get in for free if you purchase a two-course lunch at Castell Deudraeth Brasserie, lunch or afternoon tea at The Hotel Portmeirion, or a treatment at the Mermaid Spa in advance.
Info: www.portmeirion.wales
GWESTY CYMRU, ABERYSTWYTH
The best thing about Gwesty Cymru is its incredible sea view, on display even from some of the bathrooms. This hotel is a safe bet for a small and private getaway, with only eight rooms and an restaurant in the basement (albeit more lavish than that might imply). Located in the heart of Aberystwyth’s Victorian promenade, you can expect a slice of traditional Welsh culture accompanied with a splash of luxury.
Info: www.gwestycymru.com
THE GREAT HOUSE, BRIDGEND
Just 10 minutes away from the seaside town of Porthcawl and 25 minutes from Cardiff or Swansea, The Great House Hotel is a reliable venue for a staycation or a romantic dinner. Offering a splendid dining experience in relaxed surroundings, their food showcases what Welsh cooking is all about, using locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible and offering a £55 tasting menu.
Info: www.great-house-laleston.co.uk
CHATEAU RHIANFA, ANGLESEY
Situated with a stunning view over the Menai Strait and the mountains of Snowdonia, this tranquil hotel is in fact a Grade II-listed castle. Its intention as a setting of romance dates back to 1849, when it was first given as a gift by Sir John Hay Williams to his wife Lady Sarah. Although the food is on the pricier side, there are three choices of dining room and the Welsh scones served at afternoon tea are not to be missed. It is also a short walk to the Roman town of Menai, which is home to coastal cafes and restaurants.
Info: www.chateaurhianfa.com
THE HUMBLE ONION, DINAS POWYS
Hidden behind a bog-standard pub and a car park is a gorgeous renovated coach house, home to The Humble Onion. The intimate setting is ideal for couples, and its cleverly crafted menu celebrates seasonal ingredients. It’s easy enough to get to from Cardiff, yet it feels like you’re miles away on a country break, plus afterwards you can nip over to one of the three pubs within walking distance for a romantic pint.
Info: www.thehumbleonion.co.uk
HARBOURMASTER, ABERAERON
As the name suggests, this striking blue hotel and restaurant stands on the quayside of the small Georgian town of Aberaeron in Cardigan Bay. The rooms have silver bathtubs, and either sea views or panoramic views of the town; underfloor heating, Welsh blankets and fluffy towels ensure a cosy night. The menu features locally sourced seafood, meat and vegetables, with a large selection of wines to wile the night away. If you fancy sitting outside and watching the boats come and go, electric heaters and blankets are provided.
Info: www.harbour-master.com
EXCHANGE HOTEL, CARDIFF BAY
Not only will you be hard-pressed to find a more elegant setting than the Exchange Hotel, every Saturday, they serve up a two-course ‘bottomless brunch’ where you and your loved one can choose from classic brunch favourites – plus locally flavoured alternatives like a chorizo and Black Bomber omelette or a bara brith bread and butter pudding. If that’s not enough to make anyone fall head over heels, then an unlimited supply of bubbly for a solid hour and a half should do it.
Info: exchangehotelcardiff.co.uk
Research: Rebecca Astill, Elin Evans and Tonicha Luffman