STUNNING beaches, good food and reasonably priced beers – lush Pembrokeshire has to be one of the most overlooked staycation spots in Britain.
At least that’s what it feels like when you set foot on a pristine beach on a sunny day and there’s hardly anyone around.
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It could be that it’s just quite hard to get to. Without a car, you’d be spending hours on the train thanks to the trundling local stopping services.
And even with a car, it’s a fair drive from anywhere in the country.
But don’t hold the slog of a journey against this gorgeous Welsh county – because it’s so much more rewarding when you do finally get there.
To make the most of my trip, I found a charming country pad called Brynglas on Sykes Cottages.
It’s in the tiny hamlet of Cilgerran, which is around five miles inland from Cardigan Bay – perfectly located for exploring the west coast of this sprawling county.
Many of Pembrokeshire’s family-friendly attractions, from Castell Henllys Iron Age Village to Dyfed Shire Horse Farm, are within a half hour’s drive and you can easily make a day of it.
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Even within walking distance, there are a few spots to choose from.
Welsh Wildlife Centre and Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve are both less than ten minutes on foot.
There’s also a boardwalk perfect for cyclists along the River Teifi just minutes from the cottage via the old railway line.
For history buffs, there’s a wealth of interesting castles and churches.
National Trust’s Cilgerran Castle is just a ten-minute walk from Brynglas.
It’s a magnificent fortress that dates back to the 13th century, offering spectacular views of Teifi Gorge.
They host regular events that will appeal to people of all ages.
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Make sure you visit idyllic villages like Fishguard as well – there, quaint traditions such as Morris dancing are still thriving.
Cilgerran itself has three pubs to enjoy – all an easy stroll back to our cottage.
And you mustn’t miss St David’s Cathedral, of course – named after the patron saint of Wales.
Many consider it the most sacred church in the land and its impressive interior is worthy of worship.
But nothing beats a day out at the seaside and Pembrokeshire has top-rated Blue Flag beaches in plentiful supply.
One of the best, Poppit Sands, is just under six miles from Cilgerran.
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For a habitual city dweller, life in a country cottage is novelty enough.
Brynglas, separated from the main road by a bubbling brook, has a lovely patio to the back and a little garden in the front.
It’s traditional stone exterior belies the modern comforts within.
There’s an open-plan living room, modern kitchen and dining area, three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
On a balmy summer’s night, nothing could be lovelier than a glass of rose under the waning sun outside.
And as autumn draws in, if it’s getting chilly, there’s a woodburning stove to keep things cosy indoors.
Either way, life in the slow lane is one I can get on board with.
GO: Pembrokeshire
STAYING THERE: Sykes Holiday Cottages has a seven-night stay at Brynglas (sleeps up to six) from £325 in total.
Short breaks are also available.
Details from sykescottages.co.uk or call 01244 617683.
