A romantic trip to the home of Wales’ patron saint of love, Santes Dwynwen

In the south-west corner of Anglesey, you’ll find one of the most romantic spots in Wales - ynys Llandddwyn. Head past the dunes, the pine trees and red squirrels of Newborough National Nature Reserve, and at low tide on the headland you’ll find the picturesque ruins of Santes Dwynwen's Church. Remember to check tide times and follow these helpful tips to keep safe.

Santes Dwynwen was a fourth-century Welsh princess who was rather unlucky in love, and as a result, became a nun and set up a convent on Llanddwyn Island. Dwynwen became the Welsh patron saint of love and is celebrated every year on 25 January.

Couples make romantic pilgrimages throughout the year to ynys Llanddwyn, often falling for the unspoiled coastline and pretty towns and villages of Anglesey. Combine this with a foodie scene full of award-winning local produce, and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and you’ll soon be asking yourself if there’s a better place for a romantic getaway…

Llanfair Hall started its glamping journey back in 2013 with the aptly named Llanddwyn Pod. They now have five beautiful wooden pods insulated with sheep's wool, a shepherd's hut with a private wood-fired hot tub, a log cabin, and a collection of bell tents. All offer a wonderfully romantic setting. In the evenings make use of the wood-fired ovens and the pre-prepared vegan pizza dough, grab a beer from Bragdy Mona or Bragdy Cybi from the on-site shop, then lie amidst giant bean bags and throws to enjoy the dark sky. 

Order breakfast packages for the morning including eggs from the farm hens, locally sourced meat, and freshly baked pastries, and be sure to tell the owners if you have something to celebrate as they’ll kindly arrange flowers, cakes, or champagne on arrival. 

Fancy walking the 125-mile long Anglesey Coastal Path? You can request to be dropped off at your chosen start point and picked up at the end of the walk. Or if you have your own transport there is an EV charging point on site if needed.

Read more: Planning a Wales Coast Path walk.

Perched on the banks of the Menai Strait overlooking the Eryri mountain range is the fairytale Grade II listed Château Rhianfa. The castle is a love story in itself, built in 1849 by Sir John Hay-Williams, Baronet of Bodelwyddan, as a gift for his wife Lady Sarah.

The Loire Valley style French Château is made up of 27 charming bedrooms, with four poster beds and roll-top baths overlooking the straits. Outside, the listed gardens terrace down to the private beach where a jetty allows boats to moor and access the house directly from the straits. The perfect way to arrive in style.

A stone's throw away is the town of Menai Bridge full of interesting antique, book, and gift shops. The Green Olive vegan café is the place for pancakes and breakfasts and delicatessen &Caws is a must for cheese-lovers - try one of their raclette supper clubs. Dylan’s is great for local seafood and so much more, and also have a baked goods and deli store selling sauces, bread, and dishes to enjoy at home. 

North of the island, just outside the port town of Amlwch, is the 17th-century Welsh farmhouse and outbuildings, Lastra Farm. The hotel and self-catering cottage apartments are a great base for exploring the Copper Kingdom of Parys Mountain or the sandy beaches of Lligwy, Moelfre, and Benllech. 

The restaurant and bar are proud champions of local produce and make fantastic use of what’s on their doorstep, including smoked produce from Y Cwt Mwg, Rhyd y Delyn Cheese, and Jaspels Cider.

Four-legged friends are very welcome at Lastra and can visit the pet-friendly bar area, patio, and bedrooms. Dog walks are available on-site and scooper bags and dog bowls are provided, as well as torches for after-dark dog walking.

Read more: Why Anglesey is perfect for a dog-friendly holiday.

Dating back to the 15th century, The Bull’s Head Inn is a Grade II listed building full of character. Dinner, bed, and breakfast stays are perfect for couples, who can enjoy hearty Welsh dishes and real ales in the low-beam bar by the open fire. 

A stone's-throw away is Beaumaris Castle - one of the four UNESCO World Heritage castles of Wales and the last created by Edward I (which he never quite finished). If you’re visiting between the beginning of April and the end of July enjoy a perfect date on a Seacoast Safari cruise to Puffin Island - the puffins will be nesting and if you’re lucky you might even spot a dolphin. 

Other accommodation options in Beaumaris include the grand Georgian Buckley Hotel and the quaint Bishopsgate Hotel.

Search for more accommodation options on Anglesey.

Looking to unwind after roaming around Anglesey? The award-winning St David’s spa and pool offer beauty treatments and packages in an amazing spot overlooking Traeth Coch, part of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the east coast of Anglesey. 

Some packages include lunch from the onsite restaurant The Tavern on the Bay which serves a seasonal local menu and cocktails.

This grand country house is home to one of the most luxurious spas on Anglesey. The spa at Tre-Ysgawen Hall offers a wide range of holistic therapies and beauty treatments and the tranquil thermal suite comprises an ice fountain and salt inhalation therapy room. Take a leisurely swim or feel energised at the gym before visiting the cafe.