Now that we are emerging from lockdown and many places have reopened there's no excuse not to have that well-earned holiday.
But while the pandemic may have put plans to go abroad on hold, it doesn't mean you have to cancel your late summer getaway altogether.
Now is the perfect time to explore what Wales has to offer with the added bonus of not having to get on a plane or sit on a gridlocked motorway.
But you will have to hurry as millions of us are expected to book a staycation this year thanks to fears about flying during the pandemic and travel restrictions and quarantine.
Fear not however, as some of the brightest gems in Wales still have availability through August and September. Whether it's a rural cottage for 10 or a romantic beach getaway, there are still places for every taste.
Here are some of the best places you can still book up (at time of publishing article). Just don't forget to pack your raincoat and a spirit of adventure. This is Wales after all.
Luxury yurts in a hidden valley
Are you imagining a holiday surrounded by nature in a beautiful valley far away from road noise and bright lights? Set in 80 acres of meadow and woodland, the Hidden Valley Yurts in Chepstow have five Mongolian yurts which are large, cosy and comfortable, spread out along a field next to a stream, ready to book through August and September.
There is also a separate Lake House, an idyllic home away from home looking out over its own private lake if you prefer staying under a solid roof.
Check available dates here.
Hidden Valley Yurts and Lake House at Lower Glyn Farm, Church Rd, Llanishen, Chepstow NP16 6QU.
Blown away in a windmill
Twr y Felin, a former windmill is Wales’ first contemporary art hotel, located in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids and home to 21 ensuite bedrooms, including two unique suites. The feature room Tyddewi Tower Suite is a distinctive space occupying the site’s original windmill tower, and boasts spectacular 360 degree views of the St Davids Peninsula from its very own observatory.
There's no lack of space, with huge rooms and a separate bath and shower, complete with views over the Pembrokeshire coast and landscape.
There are still rooms available this September, so check availability here.
Twr y Felin Hotel, St Davids, Pembrokeshire.
Shepherd's hut for two
Fancy a shepherd's hut for two? Go for a long country walk then cosy up around your woodburner while listening to the wireless.
Available for selected dates in August and September. Book here.
Come By, Mill Meadow, Powys
Glamping with hot tubs
How about a glamping break in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park with crisp, clean air hot tubs and breathtaking views over the mountains?
If that sounds appealing, there are just a few dates left to bag yourself one of the wooden crafted pods at Glamping at 68 Degrees West.
Perhaps one of the most idyllic settings in Wales, the pods are just over two miles outside the historic market town of Brecon, in the picturesque village of Cradoc and are perfect for a short stay, a romantic getaway or just a peaceful break in the tranquil countryside.
There are just a few dates left to book the pods, so move fast and book here.
Glamping @ 68 Degrees West, Cradoc, Brecon LD3 9LP
Classic country charm in a historic house
History and luxury combine at Llangoed Hall, a unique and wonderfully elegant country house hotel dating from 560 AD which was formerly owned and refurbished to its former glory by Sir Bernard Ashley, husband of Laura Ashley.
Nestled away in the heart of the Welsh countryside, Llangoed Hall offers the perfect blend of classic country charm complemented by luxurious modern amenities with 23 uniquely decorated bedrooms.
Whether you go for the premium master suite, complete with four poster bed, or the more 'modest' double room in the Petit North Wing, a stay here is a world away from the demands of modern life.
There are rooms available through August and September, so book here.
Llangoed Hall, Llyswen, Brecon LD3 0YP.
Authentic glamping in Carmarthenshire
An authentic Mongolian Yurt with colour, style and a 'yurtmobile' housing the kitchen and bathroom.
Great views of the Towy valley for glamping with all the mod cons.
Available for selected dates in September. Book here.
Gert's Yurt, Ty Cefn Tregib, Carmarthenshire
Trailer life
A horsebox for two, this quirky place is tucked away in a secluded quarry in Kinton in the Powys countryside. The converted horsebox is filled with cutting edge green technologies providing plenty of modern comforts.
There’s electric lighting, sockets to charge phones (or plug in hair straighteners if you must!) and even an integrated sound system, all solar powered.
Available for selected dates in September. Book here.
The House-Box at Kinton Quarry, Kinton, Powys
For when the family and dog are in tow
Looking for a holiday with a crowd? Then look no further than Trallwm Forest Cottages, set in a stunning location in the heart of mid-Wales near Llanwrtyd Wells.
Surrounded by 400 acres of private woodland, it's the ideal place to get away from the hustle and bustle, traffic, streetlights and noise. There are cottages to suit every kind of holidaymaker, from romantic breaks for two to family trips for up to nine. All cottages are kitted out with a fully-equipped kitchen and all come with a wood-fired hot tub. You can even bring your dog.
There is still availability for Kestrel, Magpie Tawny Owl and and Trawsgyrch in September if you move quick. Book here.
Trallwm Forest Cottages, Trallwm, Abergwesyn, Llanwrtyd Wells LD5 4TS.
The weird and wonderful
Sleeping up to 14 people, the weird and wonderful Dewachen Express takes some explaining. The main “wagon” is in fact parts of an old tabernacle, which owner Daphne was allowed to relocate when the original owner wanted it off their land. There is also an outdoor bath, stained-glass windows and bunks in the main wagon space.
The wood-burning stove is centrally placed and keeps the whole space toasty, as well as casting a flickering glow over the Tibetan paintings that cover the ceiling.
Available for most of September. Book here.
108 Dewachen Express, New Inn Brilley, Herefordshire
King of the castle
Fancy staying in a Welsh castle? You can't go wrong with Ruthin Castle, a beautifully romantic hotel originally built by Edward I in 1282.
Nestled within acres of parkland with exquisite dining and a unique spa for indulgent relaxation, it comes with everything you need to get away from lockdown life.
Availability through much of August and September. Book here.
Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa, Ruthin, LL15 2NU.
Riverside views from a 13th century castle
Until recently, Cardigan Castle was in desperate need of repair, but a community project stepped in to give it the overhaul it deserves. Castle Green House is an elegant Regency house within the 13th century castle walls. Recently restored, it’s been turned into two luxurious self-catering apartments. Ty Castell offers contemporary, river-view B&B rooms if you fancy a treat.
Both options include free entry to the castle.
Some availability through September. Book here.
Cardigan Castle, Green Street, Cardigan SA43 1JA
A Château in Wales
The Grade II listed Château on the banks of the Menai Strait is the perfect location from which to explore Anglesey and North Wales.
Built in 1849 by Sir John Hay-Williams for his wife and daughters, Château Rhianfa has a collection of 27 bedrooms, from standard lodge rooms all the way up to stunning superior suites, as well as cottage suites.
Book for late September getaways here.
Château Rhianfa, Beaumaris Rd, Menai Bridge LL59 5NS
A luxury hotel in Pembrokeshire countryside
The Grove of Narberth is a luxury hotel nestled in the heart of the rolling Pembrokeshire countryside with stunning views of the Preseli Hills.
At the Grove you can be assured of the warmest Welsh welcome and a truly relaxing stay in real luxury combined with great food.
Selected availability through September. Book here.
The Grove, Narberth, Pembrokeshire
A room with a view
There are two holiday cottages available at the iconic lighthouse at Nash Point, right on the edge of the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
There are only a few dates left in September to bag yourself a holiday sleeping in the shadow of one of south Wales' finest working lighthouses.
Check availability here.
Nash Point Lighthouse, Marcross, Llantwit Major, Glamorgan
Farm life
Fancy five-star luxury on a working farm in Wales? Enjoy stunning mountain scenery from these barn conversions in Gwynedd while getting to know the permanent residents which include the ducks on the millpond and friendly Alpacas, sheep, pygmy goats and Shetland ponies.
There are some dates available for after September 2. Check here.
Tyddyn du Farm Luxury Suites, Porthmadog
A medieval hideaway fit for a king and queen
For the ultimate romantic rural retreat, book The Welsh Gatehouse, a luxury, award winning period property built in the time of Edward I (approx 1270).
There are just a few dates left in September to stay in this medieval hideaway with its two towers, which make you feel like you are living in your very own castle.
Suitable for only two people, this is the perfect couples retreat and a great base for exploring South Wales and the Wye Valley. Check here.
The Welsh Gatehouse, Mathern, Chepstow NP16 6HZ.
A trip to the coast
Get away from it all with a stay in the luxury holiday cottages and campsite at Rainbolts Hill farm in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Nestled in 130 acres of idyllic countryside, the cottages are just a mile from the golden sands of Newgale Beach and have been designed to offer a comfortable home away from home.
Every one of the one-bedroom cottages is your own little sanctuary of calm and comfort and come with Wi-Fi and underfloor heating. You also have your own terrace where you can sit back and enjoy the lovely sea views across St Brides Bay.
Plus, they’re all dog friendly too, so you can include your four-legged friend in your holiday plans.
There is still time to book for that September beach getaway but you will need to hurry. Check availability here.
Newgale Holidays, Rainbolts Hill Farm, Pembrokeshire
