Anglesey / Ynys Môn
Anglesey is the sort of place where you can quite happily spend a day doing very little, which in my book is a strong recommendation for any holiday destination. Separated from mainland Wales by the Menai Strait, the island has a wonderfully unhurried character, with rugged coastline, sandy beaches, little villages and plenty of open countryside.The obvious starting point is Beaumaris, an attractive little town dominated by its magnificent castle. Begun by Edward I in 1295, Beaumaris Castle was intended to be the last and greatest of his Welsh castles. It was never completed, but its unfinished state somehow adds to its charm. The town itself is worth exploring, with colourful streets, independent shops and a pleasant waterfront.
Then there is Llanddwyn Island, reached from Newborough Warren when the tide allows. This beautiful little peninsula combines woodland, dunes, beaches and spectacular views towards Snowdonia. It is also associated with St Dwynwen, the Welsh patron saint of lovers — so Valentine's Day isn't the only excuse for a romantic stroll.
Anglesey's coastline is its greatest attraction. South Stack, near Holyhead, is particularly dramatic, with cliffs plunging into the sea and a lighthouse perched on a tiny offshore island. It is also an excellent place for spotting seabirds, although getting down to the lighthouse involves a considerable number of steps. Naturally, there are considerably more on the way back up.
The island is also home to one of Britain's more famous railway curiosities, Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch. Or Llanfair PG, if you value your sanity. The village famously has one of the longest place names in the world, and photographing yourself beside the railway station sign is practically compulsory.Anglesey has plenty of other attractions, including Plas Newydd, the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Anglesey, beautiful gardens and extensive woodland overlooking the Menai Strait. The Menai Bridge itself is also worth seeing, particularly when approached from the mainland with the mountains beyond.
What I like about Anglesey is that it hasn't become overwhelmed by tourism. There are popular spots, certainly, but drive a little further and you can still find quiet lanes, empty beaches and villages where life appears to move at a considerably more sensible pace.
It is an island for walking, exploring and simply enjoying the scenery rather than rushing from one attraction to another. And with Snowdonia just across the water, you have some of the finest mountain scenery in Britain providing the backdrop.
Beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, castles, wildlife — and a railway station name that will keep you amused for at least five minutes. Anglesey is definitely worth crossing the bridge for.
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