I’ll never forget the drive up to Deganwy from the Midlands – we’d packed the car to the brim with kids’ beach toys, snacks, and enough crisps to siege a castle. About halfway, disaster struck: the sat-nav decided to throw a wobbly and sent us on a detour through some winding country lanes that felt like they hadn’t seen daylight since the 1800s. The little ones were chanting “Are we there yet?” while I gripped the wheel, promising ice creams to keep the peace. But once we hit the A55 and spotted the glint of the Conway estuary, all was forgiven. That first glimpse of the sea, with the breeze whipping in through the windows, had us grinning like idiots. Holiday mode activated.

Pulling up to our first-floor apartment in the heart of Deganwy, I felt that proper buzz of anticipation – you know, the one where you’re half-expecting it to be a let-down after the photos? No chance. The lift made lugging the bags a doddle (bless it), and stepping inside was like a warm hug. It’s got this light, airy open-plan living space that’s spacious enough for the family without feeling echoey, perfect for sprawling out after a day’s adventures. The kitchen’s kitted out nicely too – we rustled up bacon butties on arrival, spilling crumbs everywhere in that joyful cottage-life chaos we love.

Deganwy’s got this calm, breezy charm that instantly chills you out, with views over the estuary that make you forget the world. We wandered down to the marina first thing, watching the boats bob about while the kids skimmed stones. It’s only a short hop to Llandudno – a quick drive or bus ride along the coast – where the pier became our daily pilgrimage. Fish and chips wrapped in paper, donkey rides on the beach, and that Victorian splendour with the tramway up to the Great Orme. The goats up there are cheeky as anything, nicking sandwiches if you’re not quick. We laughed our heads off one afternoon when our youngest tried to “pet” one and ended up legging it back to us, covered in grass.

Evenings were pure bliss: back at the flat, we’d crack open a bottle of wine (non-alcoholic squash for the nippers), play board games on the comfy sofa, and listen to the gulls outside. One night, the sun dipped behind the hills in this mad pink glow over the water – I caught myself just staring, thinking how these simple moments are what it’s all about. No grand plans, just us lot making memories amid the sand-in-the-sandwiches mayhem and the odd squabble over the remote.

The kids didn’t want to leave, and neither did I, truth be told. It’s the sort of spot that sneaks up on you – relaxed family vibes, doorstep access to North Wales gems, and that easy unwind factor. If you’re after a break that’s more about messy beach picnics and family giggles than anything flash, this is your ticket. We’re already plotting a return.