I’ll never forget the drive down to Saundersfoot – we’d been buzzing with excitement for weeks, kids in the back chanting about beaches and ice cream, when wouldn’t you know it, we hit a massive cow-induced traffic jam just past Tenby. Proper Welsh countryside chaos, with a herd ambling across the road like they owned the place. Half an hour later, we finally rolled into the village, hearts lifting at the sight of the sea twinkling in the distance. That anticipation? Electric. And when we pulled up to our spot, first impressions didn’t disappoint – this ground-floor apartment looked like a proper cosy haven, tucked in a peaceful corner with a private patio gazing out over lush communal gardens. Perfect for our family of four, dog included.

Stepping inside felt like coming home. The open-plan living space was spot on – stylish without trying too hard, with a telly begging us to flop down after the drive. The kids immediately claimed the sofa, while I eyed up the kitchen. Fully kitted out with all the mod cons, including a dishwasher that basically became my hero by evening’s end. We rustled up fish fingers and chips (holiday classics), and that first meal around the table, with the patio doors flung open to the garden breeze, set the tone for pure relaxation.

Saundersfoot’s got that unpretentious charm that makes family breaks so brilliant. Next morning, we wandered five minutes down to the sandy beach – calm waters ideal for paddling, and the dog went mental chasing waves. Built a lopsided sandcastle that collapsed spectacularly, sending the littlest one into fits of giggles. Lunch was pasties from the harbour bakery, eaten on the promenade while watching fishing boats bob about. Afternoon? A gentle stroll along the coastal path towards the quieter Wiseman’s Bridge end – nothing strenuous, just enough to work up an appetite for cream teas back at the flat. The gardens were a godsend too; we’d let the kids run wild among the flowers while sipping tea on the patio, pretending we were proper country folk.

Of course, cottage life’s not all Instagram-perfect. There was the evening the dishwasher decided to sulk mid-cycle, leaving me scrubbing plates by hand while everyone else watched CBeebies. I had a right laugh at myself – me, the one who swore off camping for luxury self-catering, reduced to elbow-deep in suds. Made me reflect a bit, though. Holidays like this aren’t about flawlessness; they’re the simple stuff – sandy towels everywhere, dog hair on the rug, family squabbles over the last biscuit. It’s the chaos that glues you together.

Evenings wrapped up with board games in the living room, windows open to the sound of distant waves. One night, we spotted seals playing offshore from the patio – magic. By week’s end, we were knackered but blissed out, already plotting a return. Saundersfoot’s got that pull – unspoiled, welcoming, the sort of place where you recharge without even trying. If you’re after a laid-back family escape, this is your spot.