I’ll never forget the drive over to Anglesey – we’d packed the car to the brim with wellies, snacks, and enough board games to keep the kids entertained for a month, only for the sat-nav to chuck us into a cheeky detour through some narrow lanes that had me white-knuckling the wheel. Just as I was starting to mutter about why we didn’t fly, we crested a hill and there it was: Trearddur Bay sparkling below us like a postcard. The anticipation bubbled up – beach days, ice creams, proper family time away from the daily grind.

Pulling into the two off-road parking spots felt like a win already, especially after that road drama. Up the staircase we went, bags bumping everywhere, and stepping into this bright, airy first-floor apartment was an instant mood-lifter. It’s got that perfect open-plan living room with balcony doors that fling wide onto an astro-turfed balcony – we cracked open a bottle of fizz that first evening and just sat there, feet up, watching the sun dip over the bay. Prime spot overlooking the village, and everything you need is a stroll away: beach, chippy, little shops. Ideal for us lot – me, my other half, and the two nippers.

First morning, we wandered down to the beach, just a five-minute amble, and it was bliss. Trearddur’s got that sheltered curve of sand where the water’s calm enough for paddling without anyone getting swept off. The kids built epic sandcastles while we pretended to read books but mostly people-watched and sipped thermos coffee. Lunch was fish and chips from a spot right by the shore – greasy, salty perfection wrapped in paper, eaten on the pebbles. None of that fancy dining malarkey; just simple, wind-in-your-hair joy.

Afternoons were for pottering. We hired some bikes from the village and cycled along the coastal path towards Newlands Park – not too far, just enough to feel adventurous without knackering the legs. The views over the bay are stunning, seals popping up now and then to say hello. Back at the flat, chaos reigned in the best way: the little ones turning the living space into a den with cushions, me burning toast in the kitchenette while trying to look like I had it all under control. One evening, we even spotted a pod of dolphins from the balcony – pure magic, cue excited squeals and a dash for the binoculars.

There was a gentle moment one quiet afternoon, sat on that balcony with a cuppa, listening to the waves. I caught myself thinking how these breaks remind you what matters – not the perfect Instagram shot, but the messy laughs, the sand in the bedsheets, the way the family unwinds together. Anglesey’s got that knack for slowing you down. We packed up reluctantly, already plotting a return. If you’re after a relaxed family escape with sea breezes and zero stress, this corner of Wales delivers every time.