North Wales vs Cornwall: which staycation spot is right for you?
- holidays
- places to visit
When it comes to planning the perfect UK staycation, there are two destinations that are usually at the top of the list, North Wales and Cornwall.
Both offer stunning coastlines, have rich history and endless adventures to suit everyone, but which would suit you better? Whether you’re looking for mountain climbs or sandy beaches, quaint villages or vibrant seaside towns, this blog will take you through everything you need to know before booking your next staycation and making your decision on North Wales or Cornwall as your destination.
North Wales
The Darwin Escapes HQ and five ownership and holiday resorts are located around North Wales, so we’d like to think we know a thing or two when it comes to holidaying in the area. Enjoy impressive hikes, relax on picturesque beaches and make the most of the many towns, villages and history that make North Wales so special during your visit.
where to stay?
Plas Isaf Lodge Retreat
Tucked away in the North Wales countryside, Plas Isaf offers a peaceful escape with stunning views. Surrounded by rolling hills and open skies, it provides you with the perfect base for exploring the regions natural beauty. Each lodge is well equipped with private decking areas and some even feature private hot tubs. So, whether you’re planning a romantic break or a family-friendly staycation, Plas Isaf is the perfect setting for all to enjoy.
Talacre Beach Resort
If you’re after something more along the coastline then Talacre Beach Resort could be the perfect choice for you. With direct access to the beach, it is a haven for families, couples and groups. Expect a traditional family caravan park when it comes to the accommodation with caravans and lodges that sleep up to six people some also come with private hot tubs. There is so much to do on the resort too from the indoor heated swimming pool, bar and restaurant, craft lodge, arcade and a great selection of daytime and evening entertainment to suit all.
best beaches
Talacre Beach
Located a stones throw away from one of our resorts, Talacre Beach is a popular beach that many locals and visitors love. The beach itself stretches over 4 miles with extensive sand dunes that you can explore. Plus, the iconic Point of Ayr Lighthouse which you can see from anywhere on the beach, some days you can even walk up to the lighthouse if the tide is out. The beach is right near Talacre village too where you can get a bite to eat from the bakery, chip shop or the pub, plus plenty of places selling ice creams and drinks too.
Newborough Beach
Newborough Beach can be found on the Isle of Anglesey and offers the perfect day out. It is an extremely popular area of Anglesey due to the uniqueness of the forest and nature reserve lining the sandy beach. It is the perfect place for a beach day or a walk with plenty of walking trails taking you around the forest, or the most popular walking trail is going across to Ynys Llanddwyn, a small island that is a big part of the Welsh cultural heritage and St. Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers.
West Shore Beach
You can find West Shore Beach on the quieter side of Llandudno nestled beneath the Great Orme. It’s a huge stretch of golden sands with views across Conwy Bay and beyond. It is a lot less crowded than the North Shore and there are plenty of facilities like cafes, toilets and children’s play area. So, whether you are wanting a beach day, an evening stroll or a spot to sit and watch the sunset the West Shore Beach is the perfect option.
Abersoch Beach
Probably one of North Wales’ most popular coastal spots and a great day out for wherever you are staying in the region. Abersoch Beach is known for its golden sands, calm waters and picturesque beach huts. With its gentle waves and stunning views across Cardigan Bay, Abersoch Beach is perfect for sunbathing, seaside picnics, and coastal walks. It’s extremely close to the village of Abersoch also which means plenty of cafes, shops and local amenities are just a stroll away making it easy to spend the whole day in the area.
other attractions
Snowdonia National Park
Eryri National Park, also known as Snowdonia, is home to the highest mountain in Wales and plenty of other mountains, over 100 lakes and other incredible sights. Whether you’re after a hike up one of the many peaks that make the national park, or you are wanting a scenic drive or a sunset spot there is plenty for everyone in this area. There are also plenty of amazing waterfalls like Aber Falls, Watkins Waterfalls and Swallow Falls.
Zip World
One of the other attractions in Snowdonia National Park is Zip World. Based in Llanrwst but with four sites across Wales, most of them being dotted around Snowdonia. If you are looking for some unique outdoor adventure then this is the place to head to with plenty of choice from Velocity, the fastest zip line in the world, to the Fforest Coaster, Bounce Below, Underground Golf and more.
Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle is in the medieval town of Conwy and has been towering over the town for over 700 years! If you love history and want to learn more about the history of North Wales this is a great castle to visit. You can walk the complete circuit of the great towers around the castle and enjoy incredible views across the coast as you do so. The town itself is also worth exploring with being home to the Smallest House in Great Britain and plenty of cafes and shops.
Bodnant Gardens
This world-famous National Trust Garden is the perfect day out for those who love all things flowers, plants and nature. It is most known for its Laburnum Arch which blooms during late spring and is an incredible sight to see. But even if you visit outside of this time there are so many incredible gardens with flowers, trees and woodlands to explore. There is also a play park and a tea-room for a bite to eat or drink during your visit.
Cornwall
Cornwall is known for many things, from being home to the surfing capital, plenty of impressive beaches, and the most inviting seaside towns all waiting to be discovered. And we have a few resorts located around Cornwall so it’s safe to say we know the perfect spots to make your staycation in Cornwall one to remember.
where to stay?
Sandymouth Holiday Resort
Located just up the road from the golden sands of Sandymouth Bay on the north coast of Cornwall, Sandymouth Holiday Resort is a great choice for a Cornish coastal escape. With traditional caravan accommodation and beach shacks perfect for two, each equipped with everything you can need from a self-catering holiday. The on-site facilities include an indoor pool, bar and restaurant, indoor and outdoor play areas and plenty of entertainment for all.
Piran Meadows Resort
Piran Meadows Resort is an ideal spot for a family staycation in Cornwall. Located just a short drive away from the iconic seaside town Newquay, you won’t be far from some of the most iconic sights of the area. Set across open meadows, the resort features a range of accommodation from cosy caravans to roomy lodges, all with outdoor decking. The on-site facilities include an indoor swimming pool, play areas and splash zones, a bar and restaurant and a small shop stocking all the essentials.
Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat
Tucked along the rugged Lizard Peninsula, Mullion Cove Coastal Retreat is located right in the iconic cove and offers some incredible views and the perfect spot for watching the sunset. The accommodation offers everything you could need for a self-catering staycation with some also offering private hot tubs. Although there are no facilities on the resort you can enjoy a peaceful and relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the Cornish coast.
best beaches
Fistral Beach
Fistral Beach is a renowned surfing beach in Newquay and is home to Boardmasters Festival each year. It is over 700 meters worth of sandy beach backed by rocks and cliffs making the perfect beach day for all. Whether you are wanting to try your hand at surfing or just want to have a paddle in the sea and a chill on the beach you can do it all here. And due to its location, you won’t be far from plenty of bars, restaurants and shops.
Kynance Cove
Famous for its white sand and turquoise sea, Kynance Cove can be found on the Lizard Peninsula and has been used for many films and tv shows. Here you can explore the many rock pools that line the cove and take a dip in the waters, it is a great day out with a short but scenic walk down to the cove from the car park. There are no facilities at the cove, but it is popular for beach days and even sitting to watch the sunset.
Holywell Bay Beach
Holywell Bay Beach is a large sandy beach known for its grassy sand dunes and rock pools. It’s a popular spot for families and is popular for swimming, sunbathing, paddleboarding and sandboarding down the dunes. The beach is also known for the two rocks that you can see just off the coast which is a great photo opportunity. The beach itself isn’t far from Newquay either so you can pop there after your beach day.
Porthcurno Beach
Lined by dramatic granite cliffs, Porthcurno Beach is a popular beach in West Cornwall that offers a beautiful white sandy beach and turquoise waters. There are plenty of rock pools and places for paddling during low tide making it a perfect place for families. There is also a café, toilets and a lookout you can access from the South West Coastal Path so you can easily spend the whole day here exploring the area.
other attractions
Eden Project
One of the things Cornwall is probably most known for apart from its beaches is the Eden Project. It’s a unique place that puts nature and sustainability together in a unique way. You’ll probably recognise the massive biomes that house thousands of plant species from around the world. But there are also plenty of immersive structures and environments that you will be surrounded by. As well as the nature aspect, there are also plenty of events that take place at the Eden Project each year.
Land’s End
If you’re staying in Cornwall it would be rude not to visit Land’s End, the westernmost point of Cornwall. With its dramatic cliffs, ocean views and a place you can experience standing at the edge of the country, it’s a place you have to visit. Whether you just want to go and have a photo opportunity or you are wanting to sit and enjoy the view it is a place that everyone will enjoy experiencing during your Cornish staycation.
St Ives
This charming coastal town in Cornwall is a perfect day trip no matter where you are staying. It is known for its narrow-cobbled streets, whitewashed cottages and harbour. The town is surrounded by golden beaches and crystal-clear waters making it ideal for a beach day, learning to surf or enjoying a swim in the ocean. Throughout the town you’ll find plenty of independent shops, galleries, cafes, restaurants and more to explore.
The Lost Gardens of Heligan
Located in the Cornish countryside, The Lost Gardens of Heligan is a magical place where history and nature come together. As you explore the gardens you will find winding paths, hidden sculptures along with trees, flowers and plants everywhere you go. If you are looking for somewhere perfect for slowing down, connecting with nature and a place where you can just wander and take in your surroundings The Lost Gardens of Heligan will be perfect.