While Llandudno is the largest seaside resort in Wales (and there are an incredible amount of hotels in Llandudno along the promenade) it isn't just about beaches and ice-cream: Far from it. There is a lot of history around and about the town as well as some incredible scenery to enjoy - A great place for nature lovers. The nearest airport is almost fifty miles from the town: The London and North Western Railway however runs a good connecting service. I love history and a bit of nostalgia always goes down well in my book. I wanted to relax but ultimately I saw Llandudno as the centre for a sightseeing expedition: However, there is a lot to discover within just a few miles of the town and the bus service is good - I could have easily left the car at home.
I arrived early afternoon at my hotel. I'd had a good look around on the internet for hotels Llandudno. I felt I was lucky with this one. I cool little boutique hotel on the west shore. The owners were there to greet me and I liked them straight away. My room was absolutely brilliant. It was a small hotel, just eleven guest rooms and every room had its own theme. My room was called Zameen which means 'earth's soil' in Hindu. I really liked the Asian feel with its warm rose pinks and earthy browns. It was well furnished and the bathroom was enormous: I adored the complementary L'Occataine toiletries provided.
As I had arrived fairly early I decided to start with a walk into town. There is a classic award winning Victorian Pier in Llandudno (built in 1878) which stirred my curiosity and I needed some air. The Pier was fun: A nice mix of old and new. It was a beautiful clear day so I could see the Snowdonia Mountains in the distance: Awesome views. Llandudno also has a free museum open in the afternoons from Easter to the end of October. So why not? The old Welsh kitchen exhibit was unusual and there was a lot of information about the town. I enjoyed it although my visit was fairly brief.
There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in Llandudno's North Bay area. I had a light (although late) lunch. The pricing wasn't too bad - pretty much what you would expect at a popular seaside resort like this. I stayed at the hotel two nights and after eating in their restaurant the first night had no hesitation booking a table for the next. The food was absolutely brilliant. Not your 'usual' in any sense of the word. They also had a nice bar lounge and comprehensive wine list! There seemed little reason to venture out...
After an extremely hearty breakfast of French toasts topped with welsh ham, strawberries and maple syrup I set off for Conway Town and Degannwy which is just a couple of miles away - Although I have to say there isn't actually much of the castle left, virtually a pile of rubble! - The views of the river and town were stunning. I also enjoyed a rather 'perfect' brew in one of the town's tea houses. I have yet to discover the Great Orme entirely but have every intention of doing so. I think my little boutique hotel was a real find too so will definitely be going back.
Space Boutique is one of the leading hotels in Llandudno and can be contacted on 01492 818198
