Alicia's Travel Guide
- Oct 7, 2020

a few days exploring south wales....

Exploring the local area is the best way to make the most of the travel restrictions in place at the moment. A couple of weeks ago my boyfriend and I decided to explore the local area around Cardiff.

CARDIFF BAY

Take a stroll along with Europe's largest waterfront development. You'll see the Wales Millennium Centre, Norweigan Church, Senedd (Welsh Parliament), and several other interesting spots. If you have time I recommend going down to the boardwalk and go on a speedboat for an hour or so, they're just so much fun! Stop off at Coffee Co for a refreshing food and drink stop; I love the Biscoff Milkshake or the Frozé! If you're looking to have a bit more of a celebration book an Afternoon Tea at Coffee Co's 'Gin & Bake'.

Fabulous Welsh Cakes on Bute Street hands down sell the best welsh cakes. Serving warm traditional welsh cakes, as well as flavoured you can't go wrong! I always buy two bags of 6 for £5.

We ended our day by eating at the Kimchi restaurant in Canton. This Korean spot is definitely a little gem. I ordered the Beef Stone Pot which is rice, seasoned vegetables and beef, topped with egg and served in a traditional heated stoneware pot. Ben, as a vegetarian, opted for the veggie option. The food was amazing, and the portion size was perfect. They also offer Korean BBQ which I'm definitely going to go back and try!

CARDIFF CASTLE

Cardiff's city centre is home to 2000 years of history within the castle grounds. Dating back to the Romans in the 1st century AD, this castle has an abundance of culture and different places to explore. Given that we visited during the Coronavirus pandemic, we were unable to visit some of the inside rooms, but the castle grounds itself are still so beautiful and a great way to spend some time. Once you've explored the castle stop off at the 'Castle Quarter' just outside the castle walls to order some food and drinks. There's also another 'Fabulous Welshcakes' shop opposite the castle if you're craving more welsh cakes. (which you definitely will).

If you were to visit the castle once restrictions have loosened, or are non-existent, you will be able to explore the gothic-style mansion and find many hidden rooms like the rooftop garden at the top of the spiral staircase.

Once you've finished exploring Cardiff castle, head to arcade quarter. Hanoi 1991 is an amazing Vietnamese spot; the iced coffees are just as we remembered having them back in Vietnam! The castle arcade is also home to several coffee spots, but my favourite part is the upstairs balcony. There are two small staircases nestled between the lower-deck stores on either end of the arcade.

PEN Y FAN

The Brecon Beacons are one of the most beautiful parts of Wales. Located north of Cardiff, I suggest driving (or renting a car) as there is no direct public transport route. If you do opt for public transport, I recommend taking the train to Merthyr Tydfil then take the taxi to Pen y Fan.

At 886 meters above sea level, Pen y Fan is south wales' largest peak, but will only take about two and a half hours to complete the hike! The walk starts at the Pont ar Daf car park, you will often have to park on the grass bank along the motorway due to the popularity of the walk. The route is a circular route joining Corn Du and Pen y Fan. The walk up is relatively strenuous but is achievable for most people with a few breaks here and there. At the top of the peak, you can see wales' vast landscape, perhaps on a clear day Sugar Loaf mountain and even the Bristol Channel at Porthcawl. Make sure to pack a coat or raincoat, snacks, and plenty to drink. Trainers and a comfy outfit will be more than sufficient for this hike.

BARRY ISLAND (the home of Gavin and Stacey)

Barry Island is home to a sandy beach and plenty of cafes. Walking along the promenade in the sunshine or windy weather is such a fun way to spend an hour or two! Bay 5 coffee is a great spot for coffee and crepe, or head to John's Cafe is a milkshake in a classic seaside town cafe. Barry is also the home to the TV show Gavin and Stacey, head to the arcades to see the famous 'Nessa Slots'.

You can also take part in Stand Up Paddleboarding, with the IslandSUP company. I definitely recommend doing this if you have a few hours spare.