Delights of Dragon’s Den

Stunning walks and beaches, breath-taking golf courses, shopping and gastro delights aplenty… plus a big splash of history and heritage

Sounds like the perfect checklist of everything you need to unwind, relax and thoroughly enjoy yourself. The fact that you can tick off this little lot all in one amazing region just a couple of hours away from Brum makes it all the more appealing. South Wales is ideal for those taking exploring city breaks in the likes of Cardiff and Swansea, or wonderful holidays on the spectacular Gower Peninsular, or with all that nature has to offer in the border country in the glorious Wye Valley. While we all like to get out and about, see the sights and enjoy the vibes by day, most of us want a bit of real comfort to return to and crash out by night. The good news is that the Marriott Group has a suitable hotel that will fit the bill (see the boxout for more details).

CRACKING CARDIFF

The Welsh capital of Cardiff is the proud home of Welsh Rugby, with the Millennium Stadium found right in the centre. The city’s glorious past can be seen in Cardiff Castle which offers an insight from Roman Fort through to bustling centre for the coal trade. Cardiff is perfect for a city break, a fantastic shopping destination with beautiful arcades and St David’s shopping centre boasting the largest John Lewis outside of London. The guided Cardiff on Foot tours were awarded Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2014. Cardiff Bay is filled with cultural attractions, eateries and boat trips. Enough to do all day and into the night with cool bars and great restaurants – in summer with the sun shining you’d think you were in the Med! Stroll around the sandy bay to Penarth Marina and you’ll find the perfect spot for the kids to play. Cardiff Bay wetlands reserve is one of Britain’s finest, with wonderful walks and places to view spectacular wildlife. And if you want still more amazing scenery, the Breacon Beacons are just 45 minutes away by car.

SIZZLING SWANSEA

Swansea has something for the whole family to enjoy with lively markets and attractions and surrounded by the very best of Wales’s golf courses, plus the Fos Las Racecourse. Swansea Bay’s sweeping waterfront is home to its own National Museum celebrating industrial and maritime Wales back to the 1800s It’s also where kids will love making waves in the LC2 Water Park, Wales’s largest indoor water park. Meanwhile the grown-ups can enjoy the many award-winning golf courses around the area or stroll to the fantastic indoor and outdoor shopping centres that Swansea has to offer. With an indoor rainforest, bowling alley and cinemas just moments away, you will never be stumped for things to do! Along the coast there’s miles of beautiful walking trails along the Gower Peninsula. Rent some bikes or bring your own for a peaceful cycle along the promenade down to Mumbles – home of the famous Oyster Festival – and enjoy an ice cream on the pier. Swansea is the birthplace of literary great Dylan Thomas – and there’s a centre celebrating his life which draws visitors from around the world.

GLORIOUS GATEWAY

On the gateway to South Wales lies St Pierre, Marriott Hotel and Country Club the perfect location to explore the glorious Welsh countryside. The 14th century manor is set in 400 acres of picturesque parkland in the rolling hills of the Wye Valley, offering a real rich history and stunning location for a perfect holiday in its own right but also with easy access to Cardiff and Bristol should you wish to explore some city living. With first class leisure facilities, beauty rooms and two excellent restaurants, St Pierre is also one of the top UK golfing destinations and boasts two courses – the Old Course has played host to a succession of international golf tournaments. Boxout: Please use lounge and/or bedroom image

EXPERIENCE A WONDERFUL WELSH SUMMER

Whatever experience you want from visiting South Wales there’s no better, more comfortable place to stay than a Marriott. There’s one to suit every taste – just look at this trio…

  • The Cardiff Marriott is in the heart of the Welsh capital, close to all the major attractions. Just a short walk from the stadium, castle and near to Cardiff Bay. www.cardiffmarriott.co.uk
  • The Swansea Marriott in the Maritime Quarter on the enchanting Swansea Bay captures the charm and beauty of its Gower peninsula surroundings. Spacious guest rooms and views of the Marina www.swanseamarriott.co.uk 
  • St Pierre Marriott Hotel and Country Club is on Wales/England border. The medieval estate was the site of several disputes between the two countries through history. Award-winning golf courses and extensive leisure facilities, including outdoor tennis courts.www.marriottstpierre.co.uk
Experience a wonderful Welsh Summer: Throughout the summer holidays these three marvellous Marriott hotels are running a fantastic promotion so that you can experience the very best that the region has to offer in style. Book a two night stay and receive complimentary breakfast, WIFI, car parking and also a £40 food and beverage voucher. For more details visit the individual hotel websites.