I’ll never forget the drive down to Saundersfoot – a proper Welsh summer adventure that started with me taking a wrong turn near Carmarthen and ending up on some winding back lane that had more cows than cars. Heart in my mouth for a bit, thinking we’d be stuck in a field, but we laughed it off, cranked up the radio, and eventually popped out right on the coast road. By then, the anticipation was buzzing; I could practically smell the sea air and taste the chips we’d no doubt scoff later.

Pulling up to this cracking three-bedroom holiday home in the heart of the village felt like arriving at a mate’s place – off-road parking made it dead easy, and that enclosed courtyard round the back? Pure bliss. It’s got this cosy, welcoming vibe, with a handy storage room at the entrance to chuck your coats and wellies. Up a few steps to the first floor, and you’re in this open-plan living space that’s just spot on: a kitchen kitted out with everything you need, a dining bit for four, and a squishy corner sofa facing the telly that screams “lounge about”. Three bedrooms – a double and two singles – plus a sleek shower room to freshen up. Perfect setup for our little group, close to the village amenities but tucked away enough for proper peace.

From the off, my first impressions were bang on: this was the spot for doing bugger all, and I mean that in the best way. No grand plans, no rushing about – just sinking into that sofa with a brew, feet up, watching the world go by through the courtyard window. The garden area became our lazy HQ; we’d drag out chairs on a sunny afternoon, crack open a book, and let hours slip past. I devoured half a detective novel there, only breaking to flick through a magazine or stare at the sky, feeling the tension from work melt away like ice cream on the harbour wall.

Mornings were for ambling down to Saundersfoot Beach, just a short stroll away – that golden sand and gentle waves calling you to flop down with a towel and nod off under an umbrella. We’d pop into the village for pasties from one of the independents or a pint at the Royal Oak Inn, but honestly, half the time we couldn’t be arsed and just rustled up brunch in the kitchen. Evenings? Back in the courtyard with a GandT, chatting rubbish or saying nowt at all, the harbour lights twinkling in the distance. One night, I caught myself just sitting there, book forgotten, listening to the sea – a proper moment of “blimey, this is what life’s about, innit?” No Instagram frenzy, no FOMO; just slowing right down, recharging proper.

Sure, the coastal path to Tenby’s tempting if you fancy a meander, but we barely scratched it. The joy was in the nothing: lazy cottage days stretching out, the garden our private bubble, reading till your eyes drooped. Saundersfoot’s got that magic for switching off – I left feeling lighter, already plotting a return for more of the same. If you’re after a holiday where the highlight is a really good nap, this is your spot.