I’ll never forget the drive over to Anglesey – we piled into the car from the mainland, full of beans after a greasy spoon brekkie, only for the sat-nav to chuck a wobbly just past the bridge. It rerouted us down some winding back lane that wasn’t even on the map, and suddenly we’re bumping along with sheep eyeing us suspiciously from the verges. Typical me, I thought, always managing to turn a straightforward journey into a mini adventure. But as we crested a hill and caught our first glimpse of the rugged coast near Amlwch Port, all was forgiven. The sea sparkled like it was showing off, and there was this buzz of anticipation – what hidden treats were waiting for us?

Pulling up to the place, my heart did a little flip. It’s this sleek contemporary holiday home, right by the coast in that charming little town, all modern vibes with a private hot tub that screamed relaxation. Stepping inside, we were hit with this fab open-plan space – a cracking kitchen kitted out with every gadget you could dream of for knocking up a feast, flowing into a dining area with a big table for proper sit-down meals and a breakfast bar for lazy mornings with toast and tea. The living areas were massive, with toasty electric fires ready to chase away any coastal chill. First impressions? Spot on. It felt like our own little luxe bolthole, perfect for our family crew.

But the real magic kicked off when we ditched the usual tourist traps and let ourselves get properly lost. Day one, we wandered off down a unmarked path from the garden gate – no plan, just following the sound of waves. Stumbled on this teensy pebble beach tucked behind cliffs, completely empty save for a few seals bobbing about like nosy neighbours. We spent hours skim-skimming stones and picnicking on cheese sarnies, laughing at my rubbish throws. Pure bliss, the kind of spot you’d never find on Google.

Next morning, fueled by coffee at the breakfast bar, we hopped in the car and took a wrong turn towards the headland. Ended up at this forgotten harbour in Amlwch Port itself, where lobster pots were stacked like wonky Jenga and old fishermen were mending nets, swapping yarns in thick Welsh accents. We grabbed fresh crab from a bloke who looked like he’d been there since Noah’s Ark – cheapest, sweetest seafood ever, eaten straight from the shell on a bench overlooking the bay. Felt like we’d gatecrashed a local secret.

Our best accidental gem came on a blustery walk – we veered off the path near the coast and found this wildflower meadow dipping down to a hidden cove. No signs, no crowds, just us, the gulls, and a thermos of tea from the kitchen. Sat in the hot tub that evening, toes bubbling, replaying it all. Made me pause for a sec, you know? In the rush of life back home, I forget how good it feels to proper switch off, let serendipity lead. Anglesey’s got this knack for those off-the-beaten-track surprises if you just embrace getting a bit lost. We left with sandy shoes, full bellies, and a promise to return – mishaps and all.