The happiest places in Wales

At Wales Cottage Holidays, we believe that Wales is made for making memories. Whether it’s paddling at some of the world’s best beaches, hiking through scenic national parks, or discovering charming towns and villages, there’s something here to make every Welsh holiday a happy one. 

So, when we joined forces with our sister site, holidaycottages.co.uk, to uncover the UK’s happiest holiday destinations, we couldn’t wait to see where in Wales made the list. People voted in their thousands to nominate their happy place, and Wales secured over 10% of the overall vote, with over 240 different Welsh places, towns and villages getting a shout out.  

Read on to discover the top 10 happiest places to visit in Wales, the best things to do and places to eat according to our guests, and why our breathtaking country is the perfect destination for your next getaway. 

Skip to:

• Tenby
• Saundersfoot
• St Davids
• Gower
• Anglesey
• Llŷn Peninsula
• Llandudno
• Barmouth
• Conwy
• New Quay

Tenby

“My husband and I have been to Tenby every summer since we were engaged. It’s our ruby wedding next year! We took our children as babies and now they come with their partners. I keep pictures of Tenby on my computer for when I’m feeling stressed. Even typing this has made me smile and feel relaxed!” 

This charming Pembrokeshire seaside town has officially been crowned the happiest place in Wales and proudly claims a spot in the top 5 happiest towns across the UK – and it’s easy to see why. 

From its picture-perfect harbour and pastel-hued houses to its five stunning beaches, Tenby offers all the ingredients for a truly joyful escape. Steeped in history, the town has evolved from a medieval walled settlement to a buzzing Tudor port, and later into a much-loved Georgian and Victorian holiday hotspot. These days, it still weaves that same magic on everyone who visits. 

Guests who chose Tenby as their top feel-good destination were won over by its relaxed coastal charm, family-friendly vibe, and endless opportunities for seaside fun. With welcoming cafes, brilliant restaurants, and activities for all, it’s no wonder so many people say Tenby is where their happiest holiday memories were made generation after generation. 

Saundersfoot

“Childhood family holidays – spending whole days on the beach, in the sea, and hunting in rock pools. Our dad taking my sister and I out in the dinghy and building us elaborate sand sculptures.” 

If you’ve ever spent time in the lovely seaside village of Saundersfoot, you won’t be surprised to hear it ranked high on the list of Wales’ happiest places. Located in a prime spot on the Pembrokeshire coast, this peaceful coastal village has all the ingredients for a feel-good getaway. From its golden sands and picture-perfect harbour to coastal walks and castles to visit nearby, it’s easy to see why it’s so many people’s slice of seaside bliss. 

Locals and visitors alike were particularly full of praise for Saundersfoot’s stunning sea views and the friendly, laid-back vibe that makes you feel instantly at home. The beach was a clear favourite, whether it was chilly dips on New Year’s Day or sun-soaked summer afternoons followed by a beer in one of Saundersfoot's welcoming pubs. 

It’s also a hit with dog lovers. From cafes that welcome pups to shops that love four-legged browsers, Saundersfoot makes it easy to holiday with your canine companion. Set your pooch’s tail-wagging by finding out more in our dog-friendly Saundersfoot guide. 

St Davids

“Being startled into joy at seeing the first puffin flying near the boat as we approached Skomer, then another and another. Beyond happy!” 

Pembrokeshire is clearly the place to be for good vibes; it secured the top three spots on the happiest Welsh places list! And proving bigger doesn’t always mean better; the UK’s smallest city St Davids made a big splash by landing in third place. 

Its unique mix of rugged coastline, rolling countryside, abundant wildlife, and gorgeous beaches makes it an ideal escape for all kinds of holidaymakers.  

Perched on Wales’ wild west coast, cliff-top strolls were a top pick for visitors wanting to take in the breathtaking views. Exploring the area meant uncovering secluded coves, relaxing on blue flag beaches, and enjoying encounters with local wildlife, especially seeing the area’s puffin population up close. 

Gower

“My father used to take me walking in woods and on the beaches telling me about our wildlife and countryside. Our favourite place was Rhossili Beach and its stories of shipwrecks and dragons.” 

Take 45 miles of breathtaking coastline and 25 beautiful beaches, throw in some epic myths and historical hotspots, and you have the incredible Gower Peninsula – our happiest place in South Wales. Our guests talked of its natural beauty, the joy of breathing in the fresh sea air and childhood memories of long summer days on the Gower’s golden sands – making it easy to see why it was so many people’s favourite. 

The Gower Peninsula is the perfect place for those who want to be by the water on their holidays. From trying your hand at surfing in Llangennith to family fun splashing around in Langland Bay, you could spend your whole holiday just visiting Gower's beaches. Or if you’d like to take in the water from another angle, walk the scenic coastal path and discover tiny coves and panoramic sea views. 

Beyond the beaches, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained. There are Gower pubs to visit, castles to explore and countryside walks for all abilities. Locals and guests also suggested a visit to the popular seaside village of Mumbles, where family fun can be had at the famous Victorian pier, and there are numerous ice cream parlours to try - some of our top things to do in Mumbles.

Anglesey

“From childhood memories to the present, from beautiful beaches to wild horses, no matter what your problems are, this island washes them away.” 

Numerous towns and villages across Anglesey received nominations, but for many people, choosing just one of them was impossible – so they voted for the whole island as their ultimate happy place. And we can’t say we blame them; Anglesey really is a dream holiday location. From the second you cross over the Menai Strait, you’ll feel yourself relax. 

With it taking less than 3 hours to drive around the island, it’s easy to understand why people found it hard to just pick one spot as the place that brought them the most joy. You can enjoy breakfast in Beaumaris, spend the day on the sand at Treaddur Bay, before watching the sun set at South Stack Lighthouse. 

Sea views stretch for miles and there are more than 40 beaches to visit. There are historic towns and quaint villages to explore and with magnificent restaurants to try, and plenty of attractions for the whole family." 

Llŷn Peninsula

“One of my favourite childhood memories of Aberdaron is the long summer days spent on the beach, where time seemed to stretch endlessly. I remember the feeling of soft golden sand between my toes as I ran toward the waves, the salty sea breeze tangling my hair. Even now, those memories bring me back to a place of pure happiness.” 

Stretching out into the Irish Sea, with rugged charm and endless sea views, the Llŷn Peninsula has rightly earned its place as one of Wales’ happiest spots. Boasting over 90 miles of coastline, there’s a Llŷn Peninsula beach for every mood. Whether you’re chasing waves at Porth Neigwl (Hell's Mouth) or letting little ones build sandcastles on Llanbedrog’s family-friendly sands, the Llŷn’s beaches keep smiles wide all holiday long. 

But it’s not just the coastline that earned the peninsula its place in our top 10. Our guests loved the mix of towns and villages there are to explore. Trips to remote villages such as Tudweiliog and Aberdaron will immerse visitors in the Welsh culture and language. While Abersoch, also known as the Welsh Riviera, is a popular seaside resort ideal for water sports, shopping and dining by the sea. 

With historic landmarks, scenic walks, boat trips and wildlife, the Llŷn offers the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation – no wonder it’s a top pick for happy holidays in Wales. 

Llandudno

“We have had so many memory making experiences based in Llandudno. The wonderful sea air hits you as you leave the train. I wish it could be bottled up and taken home.” 

Developed as a holiday resort in the late 1800s, the North Wales town of Llandudno is just as popular today as it was in Victorian times. Good, old-fashioned family fun was the main reason our guests and locals voted it into our happiness top 10. From watching the Punch and Judy shows and visiting the pier, to long sunny days on the beach eating ice creams, it’s a step back in time and a chance to enjoy the simple things. 

If you’ve ever visited, it won’t surprise you that the top thing to do in Llandudno is head to the summit of the Great Orme – and half the fun is choosing how to get there! Walkers can tackle the 5.5-mile circular route or cycle to the top for free. Prefer an easier ride? Hop on the public bus, drive up (just pay the toll), or take one of two thrilling options: soar above the cliffs on the seasonal cable car, or ride the historic Great Orme Tramway – Britain’s only public road funicular – for a scenic mile through the Country Park to the peak. 

At the top, explore ancient copper mines, spot the famous Kashmiri goats, and soak up spectacular views – on a clear day, you can even see the Isle of Man, Blackpool, and the Lake District. With a play park for kids and a café for grown-ups, it’s a great day out for everyone. 

Barmouth 

“My grandfather was born in Barmouth and he took me there every year for most of my life and I have done the same with my family who love it as much as I do."  

Barmouth, where mountains meet the sea, is a timeless seaside gem on Wales’ west coast. This Southern Snowdonia town has been welcoming visitors for over 150 years – and with its blend of coast and country, it’s easy to see why. 

Active travellers loved the mix of water sports, hiking and cycling on offer, while families enjoyed beach days, donkey rides, and the arcades. 

The town is also home to a large variety of tasty independent cafes, pubs and restaurants. So, whether visitors are after a hearty breakfast to set them up for a day of exploring, an ice cream on the beach, or a tasty dinner following an afternoon of surfing, there will be plenty of choices for holidaymakers to enjoy.

Conwy

“The first time I saw Conwy Castle across the water from Deganwy, it took my breath away, with the sun shining on the water but snow still on the tops of the mountains.” 

One of the most historic spots in North Wales, Conwy has been the site of many battles and sieges over the years. The centre point of the town, Conwy Castle, was built in the late 1200s by King Edward I to help in his efforts to conquer and control Wales and has seen numerous Welsh uprisings over the years. Thankfully, Anglo-Welsh relations have improved in the interim and the town is now a welcoming and extremely enjoyable holiday destination for all. 

Unsurprisingly, most of the top recommended things to do in Conwy, as voted by our guests, involved taking in the town's history. Top of the list, of course, was visiting Conwy Castle, closely followed by a walk around the town walls, which are known as some of the finest and most complete in Europe. Other Conwy must-dos include visiting The Smallest House in Great Britain, which is just 72 inches wide, Plas Mawr, a stunning 16th-century townhouse, and the medieval Aberconwy House. 

There’s plenty for modern-day explorers too – from scenic boat trips and wildlife spotting to family fun crabbing off the harbour walls and visiting the nearby RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve. 

New Quay

“Taking a morning excursion on a dolphin boat from New Quay . The sun was sparkling on the green blue waters of Cardigan Bay. The simple pleasure of being on holiday, on the water immersed in natural beauty was exhilarating. The incredibly uplifting sight of a pod of dolphin gave the day a whole new natural level. Rising and falling through the waves following the bow these magnificent creatures allowed us a glimpse into their turquoise world .” 

For us Welsh folks, New Quay is best known for one thing – dolphins! So, it’s no surprise that almost everyone who voted this seaside town their happiness hotspot mentioned the magic of spotting these incredible creatures. Cardigan Bay is home to Europe’s largest pod of bottlenose dolphins, and New Quay is the best place to see them. 

Sit on the harbour walls or golden sands and watch the waves – you might catch a glimpse of a dolphin. For a closer look, hop on one of the town’s dolphin and wildlife boat trips. Even if the main attraction proves elusive you stand a great chance of spotting some of the other animals that call New Quay home such as seals and seabirds.  

But there’s more to New Quay than marine life. With independent shops and restaurants, three beautiful beaches, and a location right on the Wales Coastal Path, it’s a perfect base for scenic cliff-top walks and seaside charm. 

Find your own happy place in Wales

Whether you’d like to see for yourself why these places were voted the top happiness hotspots, or you’d like to explore our beautiful country to find the place that makes your heart sing, Wales Cottage Holiday makes it easy for you. 

We have over 2,800 holiday cottages in every corner of Wales, so finding something perfect for your holiday group should be easy. If you want to be beside the sea, we have coastal cottages dotted all along Wales’ 1,680 miles of coastline, or for a romantic holiday in Wales, we have plenty of rural cottages to choose from.