As a single parent it’s vital to prioritise your wellbeing. After all, your little family depends on you to be physically and mentally fit. Burnout simply isn’t an option, so you plough on juggling all the responsibilities that come with parenthood single-handedly. Whether you manage to incorporate a healthy lifestyle and self care into your day to day life or not, holidays for single parents are precious and much needed.
Travelling reduces stress and allows us to recharge our batteries. So it comes as no surprise that more and more families are actively seeking destinations for healthy holidays that not only offer traditional sightseeing experiences but also provide opportunities for relaxation, wellness, outdoor activities, and access to healthy cuisine. Fortunately, Brits don’t have to travel far to find healthy holidays because South Wales has it all. Read on to find out more…
The Appeal of South Wales
Renowned for its stunning landscapes, Wales is the perfect getaway with kids. Whilst the north is best known for its rugged beauty and wilder beaches, the south impresses with glorious beaches and coves, and charming coastal towns and villages. Many of South Wales’ beaches have blue flags, so you can be sure they are safe and clean. They are also relatively calm so perfect for families with young children.
South Wales is best known for the breathtaking Brecon Beacons National Park, which offers ample opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. But the south doesn’t just captivate visitors with its beaches and outdoor activities – it also has a rich cultural heritage. Steeped in rich history, this part of the UK has countless castles, charming villages, and vibrant cities waiting to be discovered – from the medieval splendour of Cardiff Castle and the maritime heritage of Swansea Bay to the St. Fagans National Museum of History and the Dylan Thomas Boathouse. For single parents who are in need of unwinding, South Wales provides the perfect settings for healthy holidays, with its peaceful landscape, wellness opportunities, and outdoor activities for all ages.
Top Destinations for Healthy Holidays in South Wales
Newport
Families seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life should visit the Newport Wetlands Reserve, a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts who enjoy bird watching, wildlife spotting, and scenic nature walks. The reserve is pushchair and wheelchair accessible, with nature trails, guided walks, a playground, picnic area, visitor centre and café making it particularly attractive to families with young children.
There are plenty of healthy attractions in this part of the UK, with the Wales Coast Path, the Usk Valley Walk and the Sirhowy Valley walk amongst the healthiest activities for nature lovers. For families, shorter circular walks and countryside walks are more suitable, whilst attractions such as Cefn Mably Farm and Walnut Tree Farm Park are popular amongst families with younger kids. For those on holiday with teenagers, Newport’s skatepark, which can be found in Tredegar Park, will be a huge hit.
Cardiff
The vibrant capital of Wales boasts a modern marvel that transcends its functional purpose as a tidal barrier: the Cardiff Bay Barrage. This major construction project has transformed the waterfront into a landscaped embankment and recreational paradise. Walk or cycle and enjoy the stunning views across the bay, the city, and the Bristol channel. Catering to a diverse mix of locals and tourists, visitor demographics highlight the Barrage’s appeal to families, with amenities such as cafés, playgrounds, and water sports facilities ensuring a fun-filled day out for single parents and their children.
Brecon Beacons National Park
Nestled in the heart of South Wales, the Brecon Beacons National Park, with its rugged terrain and awe-inspiring vistas is a true hiker’s paradise. It’s also the perfect destination if you want to enjoy healthy holidays, with outdoor adventure galore, including hiking, mountain biking, gorge walking, caving, and golf. Families can try out bushcraft, fishing, horse riding, climbing, and archery. Whatever you choose to do here, you will be out in the healthy fresh air immersing yourself in the tranquillity of nature.
Recent visitor data underscore the park’s popularity, with over 4 million visitors recorded last year alone. Single parents looking to recharge their batteries can indulge in wellness retreats and outdoor yoga sessions, immersing themselves in the park’s tranquil ambiance and natural beauty while creating lasting memories with their children.
Swansea
Known for its stunning coastline and laid-back vibe, Swansea offers rejuvenating experiences along Swansea Bay. Unwind with beachside yoga sessions listening to the soothing sounds of the waves, bask in the sun on sandy shores, or embark on leisurely coastal walks with panoramic views of the sea.
Don’t miss Swansea’s parks and gardens, most notably Clyde Gardens, with its fabulous collection of rare plant species. The park looks magnificent all year round, from azaleas in and bluebells in spring through to heather carpeting the park in purple blooms come the autumn.
Healthy Dining in South Wales
South Wales boasts a vibrant culinary scene that caters to health-conscious travellers, offering a plethora of options for nutritious and delicious dining experiences to complement your healthy holidays.
Local restaurants and cafés in South Wales embrace the farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing fresh ingredients from nearby farms and producers to create wholesome dishes bursting with flavour. For those following plant-based diets, South Wales is a haven of vegan and vegetarian-friendly eateries, serving up innovative and mouthwatering dishes that showcase the region’s abundant produce. Culinary events promoting wellness are also popular in South Wales, bringing together food enthusiasts and wellness seekers alike to celebrate the art of healthy eating.
Accommodation for Wellness Travellers
Eco-friendly hotels are a popular choice with families who are looking to minimize their environmental footprint travelling while enjoying healthy holidays with modern comforts. These sustainable properties incorporate energy-efficient practices, eco-friendly amenities, and locally sourced materials to create a nurturing environment that harmonizes with nature.
Spa resorts in South Wales provide luxurious retreats where guests can unwind and pamper themselves with a variety of wellness treatments and therapies. With rejuvenating massages and detoxifying body wraps, hydrotherapy sessions and aromatherapy rituals on offer, these resorts provide a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Boutique guesthouses in picturesque settings offer personalized hospitality and intimate atmospheres, making them ideal sanctuaries for wellness-minded travellers seeking peace and serenity. Many of them feature amenities such as yoga studios, meditation gardens, and wellness retreat packages designed to promote holistic well-being and strengthening mental health.
Between mountains and beaches, South Wales offers a wealth of options when it comes to healthy single parent holidays to enhance their wellness journey and create lasting memories with their children. De-stress, re-connect with nature, join in some fun outdoor pursuits with your kids, and you let South Wales improve your wellbeing.
