HERE’S the latest scoop . . . a waffle cone with double pistachio, whipped cream and chocolate sauce.
Yesterday’s was a Kinder Bueno crepe with strawberries.
12
12
My waistline hates me and my children are on a sugar rush, but the temptation is just too much.
Scoops ice cream parlour is just one of the many fantastic mouth-watering offerings to come to Parkdean’s biggest holiday park, Trecco Bay, in Porthcawl, Wales.
And following a £3.5million makeover last year, the Trecco Bay site has really upped its food game.
Whether you fancy light bites in the Coast Bar & Kitchen, fish n’chips on the breath-taking Blue Flag beach, or a curry at the brand new Tandoori Kitchen, there’s enough variety right at your fingertips.
Restaurants aren’t the only thing that have been upgraded at the new Trecco Bay either.
Our accommodation for the weekend was a brand new three-bedroom Margam caravan.
It had been tastefully decorated and came with all the mod cons, a fully-equipped kitchen and plenty of space that made it an ideal place to chill after busy days exploring the park.
And you’ll be grateful for the downtime after the never-ending activities.
We’d started our long weekend on a high — literally — when my four-year-old son Adam gave us his best impression of Buzz Lightyear as he bounced and flew into the sky on a bungee trampoline.
It wasn’t just Adam defying gravity though as afterwards, we all immediately buckled up into a safety harness to test our balance skills on the high ropes course, trying to take in the soothing sea views as we scrambled through the tree tops.
We were somewhat relieved when our feet finally touched the ground, but the fun did not stop there.
Our daughter, Anna, excitedly made a beeline for the Arts And Crafts activity den — which turned out to be the perfect antidote to a busy and andreline-fuelled morning.
It’s here that kids can get their hands dirty, getting stuck into all sort of creative fun, including building their own teddy bears.
Our experience was made extra-special when we were asked to make a wish on a teeny fabric heart and place it inside our chosen cuddly toys, before stuffing it full of fluff.
It was then time to get messy with paint.
The shelves here are crammed full with pottery just waiting to be decorated — we picked a mug and dinosaur money box, but there are so many bits and bobs.
What’s really impressive about Parkdean is the sheer choice of things to do, and those who know exactly what activities they wish to try can book and manage them online, six weeks in advance of their stay.
But you don’t need to panic if you’re not up for plotting out an itinerary as so much is still available for last-minute visits.
And if you are on a budget, you won’t be short of freebie attractions either including an adventure playground, pirate-themed crazy golf and an outdoor splash park.
No Trecco Bay holiday would be complete without a dip in the pool though.
12
12
12
With a giant pirate ship to explore, a waterslide to whizz down and plenty of space to paddle, it’s great for when parents need a spot of respite.
Be sure to check the timetable for the scheduled aqua activities too — Anna and Adam had a blast on the inflatable jet skis, powered by a “propeller” and designed to give young children the opportunity to manoeuvre through water in the safety of a pool.
For those after adrenaline-packed fun on dry land, there’s also the park’s new gaming area which has virtual reality gizmos, arcade games and teddy bear grabbers.
The youngsters felt as if they’d stepped into another dimension as they immersed themselves in a virtual world with special headsets.
It’s not just the hi-tech games that make Parkdean Trecco Bay really brilliant either.
The great thing is you’re spoilt for fun on your doorstep, in the picturesque town of Porthcawl with award-winning Blue Flag beaches that are perfect for surfing and sandcastles, and the mediaeval ruins of Coity castle which are free to explore.
But for us, there was too much fun to be had in the resort. A holiday here really is worth the Trec!
ST TUDY INN, Cornwall
12
12
WHAT’S IT LIKE? Everyone has heard of Penzance, Newquay and St Ives – but nestled inland in north Cornwall lies the idyllic village of St Tudy.
Located in the River Camel valley, about five miles north-east of Wadebridge, it is tiny and immaculately maintained, with its parish church providing the backdrop for a quintessential English postcard spot.
St Tudy Inn is unassuming with its whitewashed and stone front but inside, a warm welcome to the renovated 17th century bar and large roaring fire, exquisite food and stylish bedrooms await.
ROOMS ANY GOOD? There are four farmhouse chic rooms in a converted barn across the car park.
The tartan bedspreads and patterned cushions make them feel instantly cosy, while Bramley toiletries and a high-tech shower add to the comfort.
Two more rooms are planned for the top floor of the inn.
EAT HERE OR GRAB A PIZZA? We were told that some diners drive for 40 minutes to eat at the pub and it’s easy to see why. Traditional pub grub this isn’t.
James Lean, who used to work for Gordon Ramsay, has recently joined as head chef so you can expect steamed mussels, pork belly or cauliflower and cheddar soup to start, followed by steak, baked lemon sole or a hake, cuttlefish and chorizo stew.
The Sunday roasts are also a big hit with locals.
The pub is run by Harbour Brewing, which also owns The Atlantic Bar and Kitchen on Polzeath beach.
The setting is spectacular, with great views of the crashing waves and an Italian-influenced menu is rustled up by former Jamie Oliver chefs.
The crispy squid with tarragon aioli and fennel was divine, as was the mussel linguine.
12
WHAT ELSE? The north Cornwall coast is within easy reach, just 14 miles from Rock and Padstow, and Bodmin Moor is also close by.
Walk or cycle along the Camel Trail with its spectacular views of the Cornish countryside.
SO WOULD YOU GO BACK? Definitely. I’d love to explore the rest of the area.
WHAT’S THE DAMAGE? Rooms start at £130 a night. See sttudyinn.com.
A Blackpoolic odyssey
12
12
12
BLACKPOOL will be shining as bright as the heatwave sun at the annual Illuminations festival, which begins this September.
This year’s event will include Odyssey, a new 3D addition to the glowing lights, with a ten-metre high interactive display showing deep-sea creatures.
Brits up north can bag a coach package staycation to see the Illuminations for less than £80pp.
National Holidays has two-day breaks from £74pp and three-day breaks from £144pp, including return coach travel from pick-up points in the north of the UK, accommodation and an evening at the Illuminations.
Four and five-day breaks are also available. See nationalholidays.com.
Cool off on the wild swimming, say experts
12
EXPERTS are warning of the dangers of wild swimming during heatwaves as sweaty Brits flock to local waters to cool off.
Camping and outdoors retailer Blacks is warning people who are not trained to check how shallow the water is before letting kids swim – and to keep an eye out for “no swimming” signs.
Blacks spokesman Natalie Byrneat said: “While it may be tempting to jump into a body of water in high temperatures, it is important that you understand your swimming abilities.
“Even if you have been swimming in the same spot for years, always be cautious, because open bodies of water can change significantly, even in a short period of time.”
The retailer is advising swimmers to keep their heads above water if they are not sure about cleanliness and parasites, to wear a life jacket, especially when swimming alone, and to check the water temperature first.
Other tips include avoiding kicking or thrashing if you encounter weeds so that swimmers don’t get tangled, and to avoid running due to often slippery and uneven surfaces.
For all the latest Travel News Click Here
For the latest news and updates, follow us on Google News.
