I’ll never forget the drive over to Trearddur Bay – we’d packed the car to the gills with wellies, dog leads, and enough snacks to survive a siege, only for the sat-nav to chuck a wobbly just past Bangor. It rerouted us down some narrow lane that felt more like a sheep’s personal runway, and before we knew it, we’d ground to a halt behind a flock blocking the way. Cue 20 minutes of honking (politely, mind) and me muttering about why we didn’t just stick to the A55. But hey, that little mishap set the tone: this holiday was all about ditching the map and stumbling into Anglesey’s best-kept secrets.

Pulling up at last, I was buzzing with that proper arrival anticipation – you know, when you’ve built it up in your head and pray it doesn’t flop. First impressions? Spot on. It’s this cracking three-bedroom apartment on the second floor, dead welcoming for families or couples, and a godsend for dog owners like us. Sea views from the off, two parking spots sorted, and a smart TV for rainy-day film marathons. The open-plan living space is brilliant – whip up grub in the slick kitchen, eat at the table for four, or flop in the sitting area with a brew. On nicer days, fling open those massive patio doors to the Juliet balcony and soak in the coastal panoramas. Pure bliss.

We wasted no time diving into the off-the-beaten-track vibe. First wander, we took a wrong turn from the bay and ended up on a pebbly cove tucked away from the main drags – Porth Dafarch, I think it was, though signs were scarce. Crystal water lapping at our feet, seals bobbing offshore like cheeky locals spying on us. The dog went mental chasing seaweed, and we picnicked on pasties from a nearby van we’d only spotted by fluke. No crowds, just us and the waves – proper hidden gem.

Next day, aiming for a cliff walk, we got properly lost on the coastal path and veered into this wildflower meadow behind the bay. Turns out it backed onto a tiny beach only locals know, with rock pools teeming with crabs and anemones. We spent hours poking about, the kids (and me, if I’m honest) giggling like idiots at the mini sea monsters. Laughing now about how my “short cut” through gorse bushes left me with legs like a pin cushion – serves me right for playing explorer.

Evenings were for gentle rambles that spiralled into more discoveries. One dusk, we followed a faint track from the apartment and hit a secluded headland with views over to the lighthouse at the bay’s edge. Sunset painted it all pink, and we just sat there, fish and chips in hand from the chippy we’d found by accident en route. Made me reflect a bit – life back home’s all rush and routines, but getting lost here stripped it back. Reminded me holidays aren’t about ticking boxes; they’re for those serendipitous moments that stick with you.

A week of wrong turns later, we left Anglesey hooked on its quiet corners. If you’re after a staycation that feels like uncovering treasure, head to Trearddur Bay and let the island do the rest. You won’t regret it.