Day 1 - Morning: Portmeirion
On the coast of North Wales you will find a Mediterranean inspired village: Portmeirion. Base yourself on this private peninsula and you set yourself up for a wonderful weekend break. Spend your first morning exploring Portmeirion. It’s a fascinating attraction made up of a central Piazza, a beautiful coastline, a clifftop shell grotto, gardens filled with exotics plants and woodland walks. Or maybe you want to relax at the Mermaid Spa? You can stay in the beautiful hotel and garden rooms too.
Feeling hungry? Try Castell Deudraeth’s brasserie, an informal contemporary styled restaurant on the Portmeirion estate. Their menu features fresh lobster, crab and scallops from the Llŷn Peninsula, Welsh oysters from the Menai Straits and locally sourced meat.
Afternoon: Caernarfon Castle
If you fancy venturing out, take a drive to see the impressive Caernarfon Castle, around 40 minutes away. Built by King Edward I in the 13th century, the castle has world heritage status and is arguably one of Wales’ most famous castles. Take in the atmosphere as you walk around this magnificent stone fortress, climb the towers and walk the castle walls for stunning views across both sea and land.
Feeling hungry? Good Food Guide recommended Sheeps and Leeks is a small restaurant in Caernarfon, offering local and seasonal fresh produce. Try their 10 course taster menu in a relaxed informal atmosphere. Booking is essential.
Search for accommodation in Caernarfon.
Day 2 - Morning: Bodnant Garden
Start your day by heading towards the wonderful National Trust owed Bodnant Garden via the A470 through Blaenau Ffestiniog and Betws-y-Coed. There are 80 acres of garden to explore, from the rose scented Italian terraces to the relaxing and tranquil Dell. Around every corner, you’ll find colourful shrub borders. In the heart of the garden lies The Poem, a wonderful structure built as the final resting place of the Bodnant family. Perfect for a romantic stroll.
Afternoon: Medieval Conwy
Ready for lunch? Head to Conwy - one of Britain's best preserved medieval towns. Enclosed in ancient stone walls and looked over by a spectacular castle, Conwy is a delight to explore. Browse the little unique shops, visit the well preserved Elizabethan town house Plas Mawr, wander around a gallery or try squeezing yourself into Britain's smallest house. Time for a treat? Grab an ice cream from Prisella’s or head to Llandudno for an artisan gelateria or fish and chips by the seaside.
Feeling hungry? For a gourmet dining experience, go to Tyddyn Llan, one of North Wales’ top restaurants. With fine ingredients and locally sourced meat, game and fish, it features in the Michelin Good Food Guide.
Search for accommodation in Conwy.
