The Welsh seaside town named one of Europe's best kept secrets
If you're planning a Welsh staycation or day trip over the summer holidays, heading to a lesser-known location and escaping the masses of crowds you might find in Tenby or Barry could also make for a more tranquil experience.
HomeToGo has published a compilation of underappreciated European destinations, settlements and villages frequently ignored by tourists that merit exploration, with Beaumaris in Wales securing a position within the top 10, reports the Express.
The European Hidden Gem Index evaluated 50 locations described as "Europe's best-kept secrets", ranking destinations according to various criteria including the climate, accommodation costs, dining opportunities and natural beauty.
Featuring a diverse blend of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, HomeToGo described Beaumaris as a perfect destination "for the explorer who's enchanted by rugged shorelines, medieval castles and boat trips to wild islands".
Situated on Anglesey, which The Telegraph recently crowned Britain's finest island, Beaumaris also received an impressive 9.48 out of 10 rating for its landscape.
A World Heritage Site, Beaumaris Castle was built between 1295 and 1330, and despite remaining incomplete, it's frequently hailed as a masterpiece and amongst the finest Edwardian castles in Wales.
Also referred to as the greatest castle never completed, it was the final and most substantial of the fortresses erected by King Edward I in Wales, and it's regularly celebrated for its almost flawless symmetry.
However, it's not solely about castles, as the charming coastal town sits on the banks of the Menai Strait. Maritime excursions run by Sea Coast Safaris enable tourists to view Beaumaris from the water, sailing past Victorian jetties, the town's own Millionaires Row and The Swellies, recognised as the most dangerous stretch of the Menai Strait.
Puffin Island is also accessible from Beaumaris. Called Ynys Seiriol in Welsh, the island serves as a protected refuge and breeding ground for numerous seabirds, and is inhabited by Atlantic grey seals.
With a sand and shingle coastline, should you choose to remain on dry land, Beaumaris Beach provides views across the Menai Strait and Eryri. The nearest train station to the town is Bangor, from where visitors can take a direct bus service to Menai Bridge.
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