5 Romantic Places to visit in Wales

Llanddwyn Island

Famous for its connection with St Dwynwen, first on our list is the stunning Llanddwyn Island (Ynys Llanddwyn). Legend has it that Dwynwen, a fifth-century princess, had fallen in love, but her father had promised her hand in marriage to another. Dwynwen prayed to be allowed to live unmarried and lived as a recluse on Llanddwyn Island until her eventual death in 465 A.D. 

Llanddwyn is part of the Newborough Warren National Nature Reserve on Anglesey, and although called an island, it remains connected to the mainland until all but the highest of tides. It offers panoramic views of Snowdonia and the Lleyn Peninsula and is home to sandy beaches, rolling dunes, and historic buildings. Llanddwyn Island is arguably one of the best places for sunsets in North Wales, so if you're thinking of popping a particular question then this is a perfect destination! 

Portmeirion 

Enjoy the beautiful sights of this private quirky village as you discover its Italianate architecture, the colourful facades of flowers, plants, and buildings, and even its secluded beach. Whether you're booking a trip with your valentine, galentine or palentine, Portmeirion is the perfect place to visit with its historical cottages, award-winning restaurants, and spa. Located near Porthmadog, which is just outside of Snowdonia National Park, the stunning scenery of Portmeirion can be enjoyed all year round. However, it's worth considering that some facilities may be closed during the Winter months. 

Llyn Padarn

The next romantic Welsh location on our list is Llyn Padarn - a glorious, glacially formed lake in the heart of Snowdonia. The quaint village of Llanberis lies on its southern banks, while the picturesque Padarn Country Park is located to the southeast of the lake. This 800-acre park is home to Coed Dinorwig, a rare and ancient Sessile Oak woodland as well as the amazing Vivian Quarry.

You can enjoy lakeside walks and picnics by exploring one of the five themed woodland, lakeside, and industrial heritage trails, while more adventurous visitors might want to try one of the extreme sports on offer including rock climbing, orienteering, scuba diving, rowing, canoeing, and sailing. The lake is also a popular spot for wild swimming, with people braving the water all year round. 

Castell Coch

This 19th-century Gothic Revival castle is the perfect location if you are wanting to live out you or your partner's fairy tale dreams. Built in the hills above the village of Tongwynlais, just 6 miles north of Cardiff, Castell Coch boasts an impressive ceiling and extravagant furnishings. 

Recognised as one of the prettiest places in Wales, the elevated position of the castle affords its fantastic views over Cardiff towards the English coast and to add to its picturesque appeal, it's surrounded by the ancient beech woods of Fforest Fawr. It's been voted by the public as one of their favourite buildings in Wales and we think it's a great place to spend time with your valentine!

Barafundle Bay

It may not be the easiest to access, but Barafundle Bay is worth the effort. The scenery is so stunning, it is often included in lists naming the best beaches in the UK, and even the world. This beautiful and remote bay is a stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, with a backdrop of sand dunes and pine trees. Its isolated location means it is often quieter than other areas of the Pembrokeshire coast, however, it also means that the closest facilities are half a mile away at Stockpole Quay.