I’ll never forget the drive up to Llandudno – or rather, the bit just before we arrived. We’d set off from Manchester full of beans, me navigating on my phone while Sarah drove our trusty old Volvo. Everything was tickety-boo until we hit that cheeky stretch of the A470 near Colwyn Bay. Some numpty in a white van decided to play dodgems with us, cutting in so sharp I nearly dropped my pasty. Heart in my mouth, we pulled over for a brew at a layby, laughing it off as beginner’s luck for the holiday. From there, it was smooth sailing, and as the SatNav chimed “arriving now,” I could already feel the anticipation bubbling up. What if it was naff? What if the weather turned? Silly worries, really.

Pulling up to this inviting stone cottage tucked in tranquil countryside just a mile and a half from Llanddulas Beach, we were gobsmacked. It looked like something out of a postcard – cosy and welcoming, with sweeping views over the hills that made you want to kick off your shoes right there. Perfect for us two, seeking a chilled-out couple’s break with a dash of family vibes (our imaginary kids, if you will). The private hot tub winked at us from the garden, and spotting the games room through the window had us grinning like kids ourselves. Dog-friendly too, though we’d left our spaniel with the in-laws – next time, mind.

First impressions? Spot on. We dumped the bags and cracked open a bottle of fizz on the patio, watching the sun dip behind the coast. That evening, we wandered down to Llanddulas Beach, just a short stroll away. The tide was out, revealing those pebbly sands perfect for a mooch, with the sea breeze carrying that salty tang. We skimmed stones (I’m rubbish, Sarah’s a pro) and chuckled at the seagulls eyeing us up for chips. Back at the cottage, chaos ensued in the best way – I tried firing up the hot tub, only to flood the decking like a proper plonker. Sarah just handed me a towel and topped up our glasses. Cottage life, eh? Simple pleasures like that, with a bit of gentle mayhem.

The next day, we ambled along the coastal path towards Llandudno’s West Shore – not too far, just enough to work up an appetite. Those Victorian piers and the Great Orme loomed invitingly in the distance, but we kept it low-key, picnicking on pasties from a local bakery. Afternoon was games room heaven: a few rounds of pool (she thrashed me), darts that nearly took out a lampshade, and collapsing into laughter. Evenings blurred into hot tub soaks, stargazing with mugs of tea, and lazy suppers of Welsh rarebit done on the Aga. One night, as we bubbled away, I had a proper moment of self-reflection. Here we were, mid-40s, no kids yet, but this felt like the life we’re building towards – unhurried, full of giggles and each other. No grand adventures, just us, the cottage chaos, and North Wales working its magic.

We didn’t need more than that. Leaving felt bittersweet, but we’re already plotting a return. If you’re after relaxed bliss with a side of seaside, this is your spot.