When offices get too hot and the kids are on holiday, we all need a place to escape. So, with the temperatures starting to rise, Elouise Hobbs provides a collection of getaways which take only a few hours to reach from South Wales and will ensure you make the most of the short summer months.
LONDON
All you need to do is jump on the train and you’ll be in the big city in a few hours. There are so many fun outdoor activities in the summer; from the rooftop summer series at Somerset House, to a performance of Shakespeare at Regent Park Open Air Theatre to swimming in the Lido at Hyde Park. Although this can be a pricy escape there are lots of free activities, especially for families. A visit to one of the six royal parks is always a great way to spend an afternoon and if the weather decides to turn, there are always the various free museums and galleries located across the city which offer a perfect slice of culture and put on special events throughout the summer.
Info: www.visitlondon.com
GLASTONBURY
Outside of the two weeks where music fans from across the world flock to this small town to see all the biggest and best names in music, Glastonbury is seen by many as the spiritual heart of England, with thousands of years of history sprawled around the town’s streets. You can spend the day looking for the 2,000 old year trees, named Gog and Magog, take a trip to Glastonbury Abbey and even climb the Tor at sunrise. Make time to take a trip to the Chalice Well, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and orchards, and when you get to the water, which many believe has healing properties, you get the opportunity to have a drink and experience the magic for yourself.
Info: www.glastonbury.co.uk
TENBY
One of Wales’ best-known holiday towns, the little seaside and harbour resort is just a short drive from South Wales and looks like it has been taken straight from the front of a postcard. The walled seaside town has lots of colourful buildings, painted everything from pastel to bright colours, and they look beautiful (and definitely Instagram worthy) in the summer sunshine. The traditional seaside spot has all the usual delights from some of the best fish in chips in Wales, to ice cream and fudge. Most importantly, they have some beautiful sandy beaches which can provide hours of fun for people of all ages.
Info: www.visittenby.co.uk
BRECON
Arguably, one of the most beautiful places to go hiking in Wales, this area has become popular across the country for its breath-taking views and good quality camp sites. The option of camping means that this can be a really cheap summer getaway with lots left over for adventures. From exploring the hidden waterfalls to hiring a bike for the day and taking in the scenic trails to bumping into wild horses or even booking a lesson, there’s an endless list of things to do.
Info: www.visitbrecon.com
TENERIFE
Tenerife has a slightly longer flight time than its other European counterparts but you can be enjoying beautiful sunny weather and two cocktails for five euros in just under four hours with flights direct from Cardiff. Located off the coast of Africa, you’re almost guaranteed hot weather and the Island caters perfectly to all tastes, providing immaculately kept beaches and offering tours and classes for the more adventurous. Although known by many for the great nightlife, the old town is steeped in history and the white sand beaches make for a relaxing day. Due to its proximity to Africa, they offer deep sea fishing and day boat trips where you can watch dolphins and porpoises dive and swim right next to your boat.
Info: www.visitingtenerife.com
BUCHAREST
Old fashioned windmills, Dracula hunting, amazing parks and hipster coffee shops – there’s not much more you could want from a summer city break in the Romanian capital. Less popular than many other capitals, it means that you have more time and freedom to visit the sites without being mobbed by eager tourists who want to get the best shot with their selfie sticks. You will also get a lot more for your money when you change your sterling in to the local currency, the Romanian lei, which works out about 5 to £1 meaning that you can easily spend less than £100 on a weekend here.
Info: www.romaniatourism.com
REYKJAVIK
For those people who don’t want a traditional (or necessarily hot) summer getaway, Reykjavik is a really great choice. Only a few hours away by plane, the Icelandic capital has a lot to offer that you can’t experience anywhere else in the world. It’s known for its thermal pools and spas, as well as for being one of the best places in the world to get the opportunity to see the northern lights yet what most visitors miss is a visit to the Hallgrimskirkja Church, which should be on everyone’s list. They also have a great nightlife but make sure to make the most of the various happy hours otherwise the night can end up being pricey.
Info: www.visitreykjavik.is
THE GOWER
What’s better than a sandy beach? Wales is home to some of the finest beaches in Europe and this is particularly true in the collection of beaches in the Gower. This is a perfect destination for a day trip or a mini break with plenty of walks and views to take in, caves to explore and castles to visit. You could also try out your surfing skills (or get some lessons) as people travel from miles around to ride the waves of this choppy piece of sea.
Info: www.visitswanseabay.com
ROME
Throw your coins into the Trevi Fountain, walk the cobbled streets and enjoy some of the best ice cream around in Italy’s capital: Rome. The city is home to over 3,000 years of history and you’ll never be short of things to do and explore. Guided tours offer the opportunity to learn all the history of the place but if you prefer to go at your own pace, then you can download an app that will also guide you around the city. Places not to miss include the Colosseum which even today captures the power of the Roman Empire and the Vatican City which is home to gems such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes and St Peter’s Basilica.
Info: www.rome.info
IBIZA
Known to many as the ultimate party place, the Island has a lot more to offer than just nights out. Throughout the summer, this small Spanish Island attracts some of the best DJs and artists from around the world so make sure to visit thits most famous venue, Pacha, as it is definitely worth frequenting one of their sought-after events. When you wake up in the morning, you realise that there’s actually a lot more to discover than first impressions suggest. Cala Llonga has one of the largest golden sand beaches on the island and the old town and port is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site revered for its beauty and history. Better yet, it is only a short flight direct from Cardiff airport.
Info: www.ibiza.travel