BLOGGER, CARTOONIST, CYCLIST, BEARD OWNER & NORTHMAN

DESCENDED FROM NORSE KINGS & NORMAN INVADERS

Friday, 20 June 2025

CYMRU, CELTS AND CARAVANS

ei Newydd is my favourite place on the planet. My time here is simply the best; it's where I find my deepest relaxation. And so, the eagerly awaited moment has arrived—it's time to be here again.

This visit is a special one, just Morticia, Magnus, and me.

Our journey down unfolded much as it always does. The familiar scramble to navigate through Manchester, our first pit stop at Chester Services. Then, the essential supply run at Tesco in Ruthin, followed by our cherished picnic spot at Llyn Tegid, near Bala.
This Yorkshire Pudding is heading west
It's at this very lake that I always ask for safe passage from Ceridwen, a goddess deeply associated with this ancient land. There's a mystical quality to Llyn Tegid, often overlooked by the bustling sailors and kayakers. But if you pause for a moment, you can truly feel the essence of the landscape—it surrounds you, holds you, and whispers tales of old.
Llyn Tegid, Y Bala
The weather was a bit misty and damp as we continued our drive. We arrived in New Quay a little later than planned—no specific reason, I suppose we just savoured the journey. Nevertheless, we swiftly settled into our home for the next 10 days: one of the lovely caravans at Pencwnc Holiday Park. It already feels like home.

A Much-Needed Escape
We came here to truly relax this week. It's been a challenging year so far, so this break is exactly what we needed. To that end, the first couple of days were spent simply mooching around, soaking in the surroundings and reacquainting ourselves with this wonderful locality.

Stepping Back in Time at Castell Henllys
On Monday, we ventured out to visit Castell Henllys Iron Age Village in Crymych, Pembrokeshire. This isn't just any historical site; it's a meticulously reconstructed, authentic Iron Age settlement built right on the foundations of a genuine Iron Age village. For anyone wanting to connect with the Celtic past, it's the perfect place, and it certainly didn't disappoint! The history here doesn't just sit in books; it truly leaps out and envelops you. The guides on site, dressed in authentic garb, brought the past to life in a way that was both entertaining and incredibly informative.

The Mystical Pentre Ifan
Given the area's rich history, I really wanted to visit at least one of its ancient standing stones. We chose Pentre Ifan, a stunning Neolithic dolmen, or portal tomb. It's famous for its enormous capstone, which seems to defy gravity, precariously balanced on just three upright stones to create a dramatic chambered tomb structure. Apparently, it's considered one of the most impressive and well-preserved megalithic monuments in Wales, dating all the way back to around 3500 BC.
Our excursion left me feeling both energised and fulfilled. I'm already looking forward to revisiting this incredible area and delving even deeper into its fascinating history.
Coastal Charms and Local Gems
The next day, we popped over to Aberaeron, a town we always enjoy visiting. Even with the ongoing work on the new sea defences, the disruption certainly doesn't put us off. Its charm always shines through.
We enjoyed a break in the
Harbour Master, Aberaeron 
The Heart of the Community: The Penrhiwgaled Arms
Just a stone's throw from where we're staying is The Penrhiwgaled Arms in Cross Inn. For years, it was a bit hit-and-miss, but that all changed last year when new owners took over and decided to really "move it up a gear." They've been incredibly sympathetic to the pub's original character while making fantastic improvements, transforming it into a truly great little local.

Dolphin Spotting and Our Happy Place
On Wednesday, we jumped aboard a pleasure cruise in the bay, courtesy of SeaMor Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips! It was Magnus's very first time on a boat, and I'm happy to report he took to it absolutely fine.

I know I go on and on about this place, but I make no apologies! It just resonates with us, and it has genuinely always felt like home. And to top it all off, this week has been made even better by the glorious weather.

And now, as I go off to enjoy the rest of this much-needed holiday, I'll leave you with this picture of our happy place.

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