Where do I start..I have recently moved; swapping the rainy
delights of Manchester for the picturesque sights of Anglesey. What
has brought me over a hundred miles to Anglesey I hear you ask? To
answer that I would have to cast my mind back over the last 20
years or so.
I have been holidaying in North Wales with my family for as long
as I can remember. Starting off in Llanrwst before settling just
outside of Conwy, in a static caravan with the most amazing view
across the River Conwy, for well over a decade. From here we were
able to explore inland and along the coast; no two days were the
same as I'm sure many parents can relate to the demands of "what
are we going to do today?" It was an ideal location for reaching
the passes of Snowdonia yet boasted beaches galore and Conwy itself
was just a stone's throw away. Plenty of adventures were had and
muddy walking boots were always a must! Walking out from Betws Y
Coed to tours through Electric Mountain, we did it all. We would
also pack up the car and make day trips across to Anglesey; Penmon
Point, Plas Newydd, Beaumaris, Newborough in our wet suits and the
breakwater at Holyhead for fishing (my dad, not me!).
Over the years we found ourselves coming onto the island more
and more; so four years ago my mum and dad upped and moved to a
site just outside of Llanfachraeth in the North West corner of the
island. I have continued to enjoy exploring areas of the island and
sharing them, new and old, with my other half and our dog. I have
lots of happy memories of North Wales and now we have made so many
special memories here on Anglesey that when an opportunity
arose to move our life to Anglesey we decided 'why not?'
We grabbed it with both hands (and paws) and have now made our
dream a reality!
Now you know a little more about me, I would love to share some
of the reasons why I love Anglesey and what it has to offer. What
comes to mind when you think of Anglesey? Possibly the iconic
bridges you pass over from the mainland, the miles of coastline or
rolling countryside? There is much more to Anglesey than you may
first think; and among its well-known crown jewels are numerous
hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.
One such place sits on the West coast of the island, just
through Llanfair-yn-neubwll at the boundary of RAF Valley. It
boasts something for all to enjoy! If you are able to explore
during the week (RAF Valley does not fly during weekends) you will
enjoy the rather remarkable spectacle of seeing the jets;
previously like birds high in the sky, manoeuvring within just
metres of your car. A rocky outcrop doubles as a great viewing spot
and they come close enough that you can wave to the pilots, if you
don't believe me try it - they love an audience!
For those perhaps wanting to take in some 'Welsh air' Cymyran
Beach can be found nestled along the boundary of RAF Valley just a
short walk from the viewing car park. With the inland sea emerging
from your right as you top the sand dunes and descend onto the
sweeping beach below. The view opens up and as you head towards the
water's edge the sand stretches around the headland towards
Rhosneigr (obviously on high tides you find much less of the sand
visible, but the views are still just as impressive). You wouldn't
believe there was a busy RAF base just over the dunes, apart from
the rumbling of the jet engines carried on the wind.
I don't think I have ever seen Cymyran beach busy, like some of
the tourist hot-spots around the island, so if a bit of peace and
quiet (minus the jets of course) is what you are looking for then
look no further. It offers a place to set up camp against the dunes
and admire the breath-taking scenery; from rugged coastline, golden
sands and even views over to the beginnings of the Llyn Peninsula
on the mainland. Or the water's edge for ever hopeful fishermen,
and the opportunity for water sports towards Rhosneigr.
The walk to Rhosneigr can be sold to children (and adults alike)
with the promise of refreshments. Chaplin's Ice Cream & Coffee
Bar just a little ways up the high street in Rhosneigr has been
praised for its excellent ice cream selection, food quality and
value for money (it is also dog friendly). I'm sure this may get a
few little legs, mums, dads and grandparents making the roughly
3mile round trip along the beach and back.
Whether it be witnessing the what feels like private air
displays, the views from the hidden Cymyran beach or the chance to
stretch your legs and even dip a toe in the rather refreshing Irish
Sea this hidden gem doesn't disappoint. Don't just take my word for
it...discover it, and find out for yourself somewhere new to add to
your Anglesey crown.