I’ll never forget the drive down to West Wales last autumn – the leaves were turning that gorgeous coppery gold, carpeting the roads like nature’s own welcome mat. Me and the family piled into the car from Cardiff, full of excitement for a proper getaway, but about halfway there, disaster struck: a rogue flock of sheep decided to block the A-road near Swansea. Proper Welsh chaos! We sat there honking gently (no point rushing the woolly lot), munching on crisps and laughing about how this was already the most authentic start to a holiday in Wales. By the time we arrived in Langland, the sun was dipping low, painting the sky in those fiery oranges and pinks that only autumn can muster.

Pulling up to the apartment, I felt that proper buzz of anticipation – you know, that tingle when you’ve been dreaming of unwinding? First impressions? Blimey, it didn’t disappoint. This beautiful, light and spacious place captures the Langland landscape beautifully with stunning views of the ever-changing coastline and the picturesque golf club. Two luxury bedrooms offered relaxed accommodation for up to four of us, with an open-plan living, dining space and a well-equipped kitchen. And that large balcony? Absolute gold for al-fresco moments. We stepped out straight away, mugs of tea in hand, just drinking in the sea views as the tide rolled in under a crisp, golden sunset.

Autumn shaped every bit of our stay, turning the ordinary into magic. Mornings started with mist rolling off the waves at Langland Bay, just a short stroll away – we’d wrap up in scarves and wellies for beach walks, crunching through damp sand littered with seaweed and the odd crab shell. The air had that fresh, briny bite, perfect for blowing away city cobwebs. One day, we wandered to nearby Bracelet Bay, where the cliffs glowed rusty red against the grey-blue sea, and the wind whipped up foam that looked like frothy cappuccinos. No crowds, just us and a few hardy dog-walkers, which felt like our own private slice of paradise.

Afternoons were for cosying up. The kitchen came into its own with local treats – we rustled up hearty stews using squash from a Mumbles farm shop, the kind of food that warms you from the inside when the days shorten. Evenings on the balcony were highlights: as dusk fell early, we’d fire up the portable grill for sausages and toasties, wrapped in blankets, watching stars pop out over the golf course. One night, a gentle drizzle set in – typical West Wales – turning the coast into a shimmering watercolour painting. We dashed inside for board games and hot chocolate, the living space feeling all the snugger for it.

I had a quiet moment of reflection on that last morning, sitting on the balcony with my coffee as the autumn sun broke through. Holidays like this remind you how a change of season can recharge the soul – no rushing, just being present with the family amid the rustle of falling leaves and the sea’s endless rhythm. Langland in autumn? Pure bliss. We’re already plotting a return.