People flock to Wales in the summer, but the autumn and winter months can be just as beautiful. There is nothing better for the soul than a walk down the tree lined lanes with the reds, gold and brown hues of the falling leaves and the sound they make as they crunch underfoot. The waterfalls are at their most powerful, the mountains are capped with snow, the air is crisp and clean………Wrap up, don your hat, scarf and gloves and see Wales in all its wonderful winter glory.
A weekend in Wales in winter is not only glorious, but the price is pretty amazing too! The cottages are at their cheapest, meaning you can afford to splash out and choose something romantic, cosy and special without breaking the bank. Start planning your break by choosing the right cottage. What makes a good winter weekend cottage for you? A log fire? Stunning walks right from the doorstep? An incredible ever changing view? Close to a good pub with a roaring fire? We have something to suit everyone – from cosy cottages within the walls of Conwy where you can abandon the car to rural retreats further afield where you can enjoy peace and tranquillity and not see a soul for days on end.
Once you have chosen the right cottage, it is time to plan your walks. Even if you choose a town centre cottage, there is still plenty of choice when it comes to walking. Aber Falls has to be on your list. A nice easy walk, with the reward of a spectacular waterfall at the end. For the more adventurous, try walking up Mount Snowdon, Wales’s highest mountain. There are many different paths to take depending on ability – our favourite is the PYG track which is classified as ‘moderate’. Make sure you are well equipped as the mountain can be an unpredictable beast !! There are softer options though…….. Bodnant Gardens are stunning at any time of year!
Wherever you end up, the best way to warm up afterwards has to be in a cosy pub with a roaring fire surely? In North Wales, we do cosy winter pubs in a big way! From country inns such as The Groes Inn, Conwy to more modern gastro pubs, equally as cosy, but with a nod to the more contemporary – We love the Erskine Arms in the centre of Conwy. Open fires, warm welcomes and great food. Mmmmm…
Then, when you’ve warmed up and your belly is full, head off home to stoke the fire, pop on your slippers and curl up in from of the TV with a mug of cocoa or a nice bottle of red wine for the evening, or spend some quality time with loved ones playing board games. What’s not to love?
At Great Escapes Wales, we have tried and tested the walks, the cottages and of course the winter pubs! If you need help choosing the right cottage, walks and places to go during the winter months, we can help!
