Image Credit: Tom Hall
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, no doubt young couples in love are on the search for something new, quirky and romantic to do this Valentine’s day. Whilst your other half might deserve a weekend on a private island, the bank balance simply won’t allow it, which is why a trip to South Wales is the ideal alternative.
Not only is a weekend in South Wales more accommodating for lower budgets, but there is also a wide variety of romantic activities you can embark upon during your time away. You don’t have to travel for thousands of miles to say ‘I love you’ and it could be even more special if you stay slightly closer to home, buy renting a Wales cottage with a hot tub for your weekend away. We’ve put together a few romantic activities for your holiday inspiration:
Go for a walk
There’s not many ways to better spend quality time with your other half than heading out for a long walk, exploring an area that’s new for the both of you. You can soak up the incredible views, keep an eye out for wildlife and engage in quality conversation while you discover the beautiful wonders that Wales has to offer. We recommend heading to the Brecon Beacons, where there is a plethora of romantic landmarks to watch out for on your adventures.
Stand on top of the world – or southern Britain at least – and appreciate the panoramic views of rolling landscapes all around you…the perfect spot for a selfie! If you’re in the Camarthenshire area, the renowned Carreg Cennen castle has a stunning silhouette and has been painted and photographed by many. Take a lunch break here, and gaze into each others eyes while you munch on cheese and pickle sandwiches from your quintessentially British picnic.
Picnic on the beach
South Wales is home to some of the best beaches in the UK, and even if the weather isn’t ideal, the crashing waves, golden sands and dramatic cliffs all make for ideal romantic settings. You can take a picnic, but remember to wrap up warm and if the weather is unforgiving, hitting the local pub might be your best option…there’s nothing romantic about soggy sarnies! Three Cliffs Bay beach on the Gower offers picturesque scenery of sand dunes, salt marsh and the infamous three limestone cliffs.
A great spot to stop for food, appreciate your surroundings and simply be together in such a peaceful environment. Writing your names in the sand with love hearts and kisses also seems to be the romantic notion of the time and makes a fantastic Instagram post if nothing else. If you’re planning a proposal, there’s few spots that are more romantic than a secluded bay in South Wales, perhaps a beach you’ve been before that has a special meaning for the two of you.
Go stargazing
Wales is home to the Brecon Beacons National Park, a beautiful area with breath-taking landscapes that also hosts the first Dark Sky Reserve in Wales. On a dry night, you and your special someone can head to a secluded spot, armed with flasks of hot chocolate, snacks, blankets and maybe even a bottle of bubbly, for a midnight feast with a twist you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
On a clear night, it is possible to see the Milky Way, major constellations, bright nebulas and even meteor showers, making for a truly special experience. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for shooting stars with wishes at the ready, magic like that is enough to make anyone starry-eyed…
A tale of two cities
Wales is home to both Cardiff and Swansea, two fantastic cities rich in history, culture and of course, the opportunity for romance. Take your loved one to any of the swanky restaurants in these cities to indulge their pallet in a variety of tastes. For a quirky twist, check out Anna Loka in Cardiff, a 100% vegan restaurant that translates to foods of the earth where you can enjoy dishes in a peaceful environment. Alternatively, spoil yourself at any of the many spas on offer, where you could spend a morning, afternoon or full day relaxing together with couple treatments.
Many include an access pass to all facilities and even include an afternoon tea and cake. You could also spend some time wondering round many of the authentic boutique stores in the centre, where you could perhaps buy each other gift in celebration of St Valentine. Both cities have vibrant water fronts that can and should be thoroughly explored. If the weather takes a turn, there is a whole host of inside activities from aquariums to Doctor Who experiences, there won’t be a dull moment on your romantic getaway.
Visit Ystradfellte (you don’t need to learn how to say it)
This small village in the Brecon Beacons National Park is home to some spectacular waterfalls and caves, making for a fantastic day out for the both of you. Whilst you may not be able to re-enact the exact magic of Robin Hood and Maid Marion behind the cascading waters, there are still incredibly romantic spots to explore. The area surrounding the village is well known for its caves and karst scenery, including the biggest cave entrance in Wales – Porth yr Ogof.
For the brave and adventurous, why not check out the opportunities to embark upon a caving trip through these magical tunnels. Nestled within lush wooded valleys, enchanting forests and classic limestone landscapes, a visit to Ystradfellte is a great way to spend the day. If you visit on the weekend, be sure to check out the local pub for a well-deserved pint and a bite to eat.
So put those plans of an eye-wateringly expensive weekend in Rome on hold. This was just a taster of the romantic activities you can embark upon in South Wales, come and explore the wonderful country yourself and share happy memories with your other half that will last a lifetime.