2012 is almost upon us!

I hope that everyone had a cracking Christmas weekend, we are now like sitting ducks awaiting the brand new and exciting year of 2012 to grace us with it's presence.

This week is a little odd neither here nor there, though I am very much looking forward to the New Year weekend ahead.

If you were the lucky recipient of a Christmas Activity Wales Gift Voucher, the booking of your activity experience is never to soon. Members of our Activity Wales team are on hand to answer any queries this week, including New Years Eve and Monday 2nd January.

In my eyes there is nothing like efficiency, especially if you pull it off after a few days of eating, drinking and napping during the day. I would like to take this opportunity in praising our speedy IT department, who have already set the scene for New Year and Valentine's Day. You don't get more efficient than that!

So, if you happen to be searching for activity days out, New Year weekend adventure breaks or fantastic Vouchers for Valentine's in Wales then as you can witness, we already have it all covered!

See you in 2012!

Merry Christmas Eve!

Christmas Eve is upon us and the festive feeling is all around.

We took the little ones to see Arthur Christmas last night and sat in the front row. Mum and I hadn't given it a thought that it might be busy, you know with it being the 23rd December and a cracking Christmas title that every child wants to watch!

I just thought today that I would wish everybody a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when it arrives.

Keep an eye on the website for great New Year Breaks and Special Offers to jazz up your January!

Don't eat too much and be merry.

From all the team at Activity Wales, Happy Christmas!

Christmas Gift Vouchers

We can still offer Special Delivery postage on all our Christmas Gift Vouchers.

If you are looking for any last minute presents for loved ones this Christmas then you will be delighted to know that our Special Delivery postage secures the delivery of your Gift Voucher to you by Christmas Eve.

Please give us a call on 01437 766888 to choose your Christmas Gift Vouchers and to place your order.

New Activity Experiences with Activity Wales

We do our very best to ensure that we are keeping up with the latest activity trends and ensure our portfolio is full of variety and fun.

Of late, Activity Wales have secured two brand new activity experiences in Wales, River Tubing and Golf Simulator.

River Tubing is set to be huge, it is already dubbed as one of biggest new activities to sweep the world of adventure activities, (imagine riding down the river on a doughnut, that is the inflatable kind not the sugary kind!). What could be more fun than racing down grade 3 white water rapids, surrounded by the stunning scenery of Waterfall Country, South Wales.

You will of course receive a full safety brief and instructions of how to best use your river tube by a fully qualified and experienced guide.

For somebody who loves White Water Rafting, River Tubing is a must for my diary this year.

Next up is an activity that I am quite intrigued to have a go at, the Golf Simulator Experience.

A top of the range Golf Simulator has landed at Cottrell Park Golf Resort, offering players over 100 courses to tackle including the 2010 Ryder Cup Celtic Manor Course.

Within the one hour session of playing the Golf Simulator golfers are given a range of opportunities to choose how they would like to best spend their session.

Golfers can to choose to play a variety of different holes from different courses, create a competition between friends to see who has the longest drive or for the more serious player, the Golf Simulator can be used as a training facility where your golf swing is accurately analysed and reviewed providing you with ways of improving your game.

Included within your Golf Simulator Experience you will receive a tea or coffee refreshment on your arrival and a hearty main course meal in the clubhouse afterwards!

This Golf Experience sounds like a lovely afternoon out and it doesn't matter if it's raining!

If you would like more information on either of our new activity experiences above then please do not hesitate in giving a member of the team a call on 01437 766888.

December Special Offers

If you are struggling to tick those final Christmas Gifts off the list, then look no further than our fantastic Christmas special offers for December.

With Christmas getting ever closer we decided to offer some great deals throughout December, having you save a 10% discount off a selection of our Christmas Gift Vouchers.

Don't hesitate, get shopping our Special Offers for December now!

Our 12 Days of Christmas!

Don't forget our fantastic 12 Days of Christmas campaign on Facebook.

The 7th Day of Christmas has been released today, offering 10% discount of Kayaking. This fantastic special offer can only be claimed today, so make sure you visit our facebook page: www.facebook.com/officialactivitywales now to claim your discount.

Keep an eye out as there are still 5 days to go with each day revealing another great discount on one of our fantastic Christmas Gift Vouchers.

Top 5 Christmas Gift Vouchers for Families

Our Top 5 Gift Vouchers for Families are an ideal gift this Christmas allowing all members of the family to partake in an activity experience together.

We have a variety of Experience Day's in Wales that are suitable for all the family, such as Outdoor Laser Combat, a Farm Park and Country Sports Park Day Out, a Wet and Wild Boat Trip and Archery.

Playful interaction within your family is key and that is what makes our gifts for families an ideal present to sit underneath the tree this Christmas.

Watch this space for our special offers for December, but don't miss out on our special offer selection for November that are still live to snap up for the next couple of days!

Top 5 Christmas Gifts for your Kids

Both Gifts for Her and Gifts for Him have already been tackled and so the latest release are our Top 5 Christmas Gift Vouchers for the Kids in your life!

It is a shame of late that kids seem to want to sit indoors with their eyes glued to computer consoles rather than experiencing the great outdoors and taking part in activities.

I am not ancient by any means, but when I was younger I couldn't wait to dump my school bag and meet my friends outside to have numerous games of pom-pom. In actual fact we had competitions to see who would be outside first!

I know with the shorter evenings there isn't much opportunity to play outside, but I am a strong believer in being outside in the fresh air and having fun should always been encouraged.

We have the perfect Christmas gifts for kids that will ensure that they experience everything that is great about partaking in junior activities outdoors.

Choose from fantastic Christmas Gift Vouchers such as Surfing, Paintballing, Quad Biking, Own a Pony and Rock Climbing and Abseiling.

We also have more Experience Day Gift Vouchers for you to peruse from only the finest selection around in our Activity Gift Search on the home page, and don't forget our November specials offering 10% off a selection of popular Gift Vouchers ideal for Christmas.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Her

Great Christmas gifts for her can be hard to come by, but with our top Christmas gifts ideas for inspiration it will be like shelling peas this year!

Our hottest buy at the moment has to be our Blissful Spa Day Activity Voucher. At only £59 it is a fantastic bargain that cannot pass you by. Your lady would have full use of the luxury spa facilities during the day, a two course lunch plus two treatments. You really do get full value for money with this voucher.

We have so many gift ideas for her this Christmas, other gift vouchers that have been firm favourites over the last month are Horse Riding, White Water Rafting, Pleasure Flights and for the brave, Skydiving!

Our wide range of Christmas Gift Vouchers are endless, even if you find yourself scratching your head in turmoil unable to decide, we also offer our Open Gift Vouchers that allow your recipient to choose which activity they fancy for themselves.

Wales Rally GB

I watched the Wales Rally GB a few years ago at the Millennium Stadium during the Cardiff Stage. I didn't particularly have a clue what was going on or who was who, but I really enjoyed it.

I also seem to have created a memorable association between the Wales Rally GB and Christmas. I mean the rally isn't days until Christmas or anything, but for some reason whenever I see or hear anything to do with the rally I immediately think about Christmas!

I was watching clips of the first stage in Great Orme, Llandudno last night and it is pretty amazing to see how these guys drive. I really do admire their driving skills, though it does remind me of how mundane mine are! I sometimes struggle to reverse park so I don't think rally driving is my hidden forte.

Do you know anyone that has a desire for fast cars and high adrenalin? If watching that Wales Rally GB is anything to go by, then Rally Driving is a must.

We offer Rally Driving Experience Days working with an amazing rally school in Powys, who offer the ultimate rally driving experience on a classic two mile Welsh rally stage.

Christmas Gifts for Him

We have got a great selection of Experience Day Gift Vouchers that make ideal Christmas gifts.

For him, we offer a wide range of new and exciting activities for you to choose from that best suit the man in your life and make the finest present for him this Christmas. We like to call this particular section our adventurous selection.

Our Top 5 Gifts for Men are:

• Harley Davidson Experienced Rider Activity Voucher from £199


• Harness Zorbing Activity Voucher from £52


• Jet Ski Activity Voucher from £55


• Kitesurfing Full Day Activity Voucher from £95


• Rally Driving Half Day Activity Voucher from £195

For more fantastic gift ideas for him this Christmas view our Top 10 best selling Christmas Gift Vouchers and our special offers for November.

Give us a call to order your voucher over the phone, let us know it's a gift for Christmas and we will extend the voucher's validity by dating it from Christmas Day for you. Just a little extra touch from Activity Wales to you!

Christmas Special Offers

Everybody loves a bargain and coming up to Christmas any penny you can save is a bonus. This is exactly why we have created a great selection of Special Offers especially for November.

We are offering a 10% discount on some of our finest Christmas Gift Vouchers so you can still purchase fantastic activity gift vouchers for less.

Our Special Offers can only be claimed over the phone (01437 765 777) by quoting Nov11.

Don't forget to keep an eye on our special offers page as this is updated on a monthly basis to make sure that we give you great deals to snap up for all special occasions, all year round.

Beat those Winter Blues

The dark nights really do get on my nerves.

I am a very outdoorsy person and I get very upset when work is finished for the day and all you are greeted with is the disappearing light and a nippy chill on the nose. I'd love to be taking brisk walks across the beach, swimming in the seas and cycling the countryside of an evening.

Having said that, I do love the laziness and weird warmth of winter. There is something simply satisfying about cuddling up on the sofa listening to the lashings of rain belt against your windows. The wonders of Wales I guess!

Something is for sure though, there is never a dull moment in Wales where the weather is concerned. Not only do we get the heaviest rain, prettiest snow and brightest rainbows, we get a heat wave in October too! I had to dig my bikini out of hibernation only a matter of weeks ago.

If you're feeling a little blue at the moment as you reluctantly watch winter set in, I highly recommend having a night or weekend away to re-charge your batteries and have you feel that little bit brighter.

An overnight stay or short break away in Wales with a loved one really can help beat those winter blues.

We can help you arrange a relaxing hotel break or weekend activity package to best suit your individual requirements and budget. A little bit of fun doesn't have to cost the earth or stop just because the sun decides to go to bed early.

We have a wealth of experience in creating cracking breaks throughout Wales all year round.

Our Top 10 Christmas Gift Vouchers

Did you know, it is only 64 days, 11 hours and 20 minutes until Christmas. And by the time I get to the end of this post, Christmas will be ever closer!

I am convinced that time flies as you get older. I only have to blink now and I get two grey hairs!

I find myself struggling to comprehend that Christmas is coming this year. 2011 has simply flown by without so much of a hello, how are you?

I still love Christmas though...

If you want to find the perfect gift for family this Christmas, then look no further than our Christmas gift vouchers.

We have created a collection of our top 10 Christmas Gift Vouchers, which are our most popular Experience Days in Wales and are sure to make a unique present for your family this year.

Our Christmas Gift collection include many marvels such as Rally Driving, Harness Zorbing and Tandem Skydiving. But don't forget that we also have a huge selection of Christmas Gift ideas within our activity gift search too.

Christmas shopping is has never been so easy!

Halloween is like Marmite

You either like it or you don't. For me, Halloween is an excuse to let the kids have some harmless, spooky fun.

Throughout Wales there are many eerie happenings that are offered for people to enjoy this festival, which when you think about it has many deep religious roots. It hasn't always been about trick or treating, bobbing apples and carving pumpkins!

Many family attractions really make an effort for Halloween celebrations, such as turning running water blood red, creepy encounters with unusual animals, face painting and tours of castles and woodland trails. All whilst dressed in freaky costumes and the ugliest masks!

If you need help in finding something spooky and spectacular to entertain the family, we would love to help. We can offer advice on family attractions, activities and hotel accommodation parties.

You should be very proud Wales!

Like everybody else in Wales, I am gutted that our boys cruelly missed out on a Rugby World Cup final, it just didn't seem fair.

Questioning the whys and how's unfortunately though will not change the result.

We deserved to win the game, but there were opportunities missed that we needed to have taken, it just wasn't meant to be.

The proud Welshmen on the field on Saturday fought right until the bitter end, they showed fight, determination and proved against all the odds that they are simply a class act.

On Friday, we need to show the world that we haven't given up and claim bronze ahead of the Wallabies. Heads up boys, you can do it.

Wales are only going to get so much better.

Everybody Loves Wales!

As if I wasn't already in love with Wales, I have most certainly rolled head over heels in love now, thanks to their awesome performance in the Rugby World Cup!

To hear the echo of the classic 'Delilah' being belted out with passion last Saturday, as our boys won a phenomenal quarter final against Ireland and secured our place in the semi final this Saturday against the French, truly was the best start to a day...ever!

As everyone, I wish I could tap my little red shoes together and instantly appear in New Zealand to join the roar of red shirts, but the support needs to be loud back home too, so I decided to stay and have a party in Pembrokeshire instead!

I cannot wait until Saturday morning.

Look out the French and come on Wales!

Have you got what it takes to be an Ironman?

My thought process is, if you are searching for activities in Wales then you must like a challenge, be fairly active, outdoorsy and have the yearning to visit Wales.

Could Ironman Wales 2012 be your latest venture?

How does a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and a 42km run sound for fun?!

Ironman Wales proved to be a magnificent event this year and Tenby in Pembrokeshire (South Wast Wales) played an extremely proud and admirable host to an array of athletes from across the world and their families. The eager anticipation for next years phenomenon is already rife across the whole of Pembrokeshire!

Ironman Wales has been confirmed as Sunday 16th September 2012. Registration is now open online at http://www.ironmanwales.com/.

Go on you can do it!

Dare I say it...(Christmas!)

This year seems to have gone even faster than any other year has ever done before. My mum says it's because I am getting older.

Christmas Experience Day Gift Vouchers are on sale now and are featured on the homepage of our Activity Wales website. There you go, I've said it!

'Early bird catches the worm' is on the tip of my tongue right now.

It is that time of year (again) when it doesn't matter how hard we try not to think about it, we all can't help but to start thinking about and planning for Christmas. For me, it's probably when Scott Mills first plays Mariah Carey's 'All I want for Christmas' on the radio that I know it's coming is inevitable.

At Activity Wales we try our very best to offer something special for everyone, which makes our Experience Day Gift Vouchers a perfect choice for the top present for your family and friends this year. They come neatly presented in a gift box, including a free drawstring sports bag.

For something a little different, we have introduced our 'Events' Gift Vouchers.

The Long Course Weekend in Tenby, Pembrokeshire consists of The Wales Swim, The Wales Sportive and The Wales Half and Full Marathon. The idea being, that if you know somebody who just needs a little push in the right direction to take part in an awesome event held in Pembrokeshire next year; you can buy them a gift voucher for their entry into all or one of the events across the course of three days, 8th - 10th June 2011. Then they have no excuse but to take part!

Isn't it also a great way to shift those few extra pounds that we all succumb to at Christmas and New Year?!

Aside to the events gift vouchers we do of course still offer our firm favourites, such as Pleasure Flights, Rally Driving, Kitesurfing, Quad Biking, Coasteering, Horseriding...as you can see the list is endless! To view everything that we can offer you it is probably best for you to check out our activity gift search, which you can find on the left hand side of the homepage.

Happy Christmas shopping...!

A Spectacular Ironman Wales

Ironman Wales was amazing. The scenes across Tenby and Pembrokeshire were phenomenal, something both the residents and athletes will never ever forget.

The atmoshpere was electric from 7 in the morning until the black of midnight with crowds of supporters, friends and families lining the streets and cheering the athletes on as they past through their towns and villages.

Ironman Wales was held in Tenby on Sunday 11th September and is the biggest sporting event to be witnessed in Pembrokeshire. The event, which has already become recognised as the toughest Ironman course in the world, challenges athletes to a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride finishing with a marathon of 26.2 miles.

Ironman Wales brought the communities within South Pembrokeshire together and created a magnificent atmosphere that was felt by everyone that was in any way involved with the event. The positive feedback that has been recieved about the support, friendliness, hospitality and cheer of the local people of Pembrokeshire is simply overwhelming.

Pembrokeshire is so very proud of their Ironman Wales and can't wait until 2012!

(Follow www.facebook.com/ironmanwales).

Pembrokeshire - 3rd Hiking Destination in the World

The accolades for Pembrokeshire just keep on coming. This beautiful county is already gushing with pride for having had recognition for it's sandy beaches, wildlife and spectacular scenery in the past and now the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path has been named as one of the greatest hiking trails in the world.

Last year the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path celebrated it's 40th anniversary and it is outstanding that this amazing recognition of coming third in the top 10 hiking destinations in the world emphasises even more how admired the coastal path still is by locals and visitors from across the world 40 years later.

I am still blown away by the scenery that surrounds me every day, my mum and I walked from Broad Haven South round to Freshwater East a few weekends ago and it was simply stunning. We were the only set of footprints wandering across the beaches, the blue sky and sunshine was upon us and mum spent time picking wild mushrooms growing alongside the path. I hope they weren't magic! If only we had thought to bring our swimming gear - the clear, bright blue sea was calling.

Everyone must witness our Pembrokeshire wonder. Whether you wish to come alone and hike across the Coastal Path, bring your family to spend time playing on the sandy beaches or have fun wandering the county with a loved one, we can help to arrange this for you. Just give us a call on 01437 766888.

Harry Potter Magic Remains

Last night I watched the 50 most brilliant Harry Potter moments.

It is magical to learn that the scene of which was filmed on our home turf in Pembrokeshire at Freshwater West beach has excelled in greatness coming within the top five most brilliant Harry Potter moments.

I watched the clip in awe last night as I recognised every inch of the fabulous beach and felt so proud to know I have made many footprints and my dog many paw prints in that very sand!

Freshwater West beach features in The Deathly Hallows (part 1) and plays the backdrop for the scene in which sadly, the adorable little elf Dobby dies. But if anything, this sad moment only emphasizes the significance of the role the beach played at such an iconic moment in the film.

I love Freshwater West beach , it has a long stretch of sand, laced by pebbles and loads of rocks to climb as well as being a haven for surfers all year round.

Pembrokeshire is renowned for it's fabulous beaches and coastline and if you have never visited before it is definitely time to arrange a holiday! I don't even mean in the height of the summer holidays, in fact wandering the beaches arm in arm when there is nobody else around is the best time - first thing in the morning or last thing at night.

Activity Wales can help to arrange an overnight stay, weekend break or long holiday to Pembrokeshire, where you can visit the very beach that has been recognised for it's outstanding beauty, not in just Harry Potter but the Robin Hood epic too.

Whilst you are visiting Freshwater West you can try a spot of Surfing, the waves are incredible.

Well done Freshwater West and Pembrokeshire - what a gem!

(P.S The picture shows me and my dog in front of the shell house at Freshwater West beach!)

Adventure Week in Pembrokeshire

This adventure package is perfect. Great for those couples looking for something new to try together, a group of friends looking to celebrate their graduation or for a fun family looking for their next challenge.

Our Adventure Week in Pembrokeshire has proven such a hit in the past that it has got to be within our top holiday activity packages in Wales. Pembrokeshire is such a stunning place to visit and has the most beautiful unspoilt scenery. beaches and a wicked coastline.

This particular package offers you seven nights self catering cottages accommodation, a day of Kitesurfing, Coasteering and a wildlife boat trip around Ramsey Island with prices from around £500 per person based on two or more sharing.

For further information on availability and booking in regards to our Adventure Week in Pembrokeshire please call a member of our team on 01437 766888 or e-mail info@activitywales.com.

Summer Frolics for the Family

It is usually around this time of the year Activity Wales start getting excited and ready for the summer! W e talk endlessly to people who have chosen to holiday to Wales and would like to arrange family activity days for them to partake in during their visit.

They have certainly come to the right place to discover brand new experiences as well as old fashioned favourites with Activity Wales!

Coasteering – Everything your mum told you not to do as a kid at the beach! If traversing along cliffs, scrambling and jumping from heights is your thing, then I advise you not to miss out on a session of Coasteering. You will NOT be disappointed.

Quad Biking – This is a firm favourite for many and has been for as long as I can remember. There is something naughty about biking across the rolling welsh countryside with the mud splashing beneath you and feeling every lump and bump you ride over!

Horse Riding – Is every little (and big girls) dream. There is no better way to experience Wales’ unspoilt, beautiful countryside than on horse back. As a horse rider myself, trust me that there is something very special and inspirational when you are utterly trusting in your four legged friend as you ride experiencing the wonders of Wales.

Activity Wales have so many summer activity experiences to offer you, your friends and family that if I rambled on about every single one of them this blog post would be endless!

We can help to arrange exciting new activities that you have always wanted to try, perhaps Gorge Walking, White Water Rafting or Kitesurfing or you may want to re-visit past childhood memories with a spot of Surfing, Sea Fishing or Sailing.

Don’t be afraid to give us a call with any thoughts or queries you may have to make your holiday to Wales that extra bit special and memorable. Activity Wales showcase the very best of what Wales has to offer and we want you to experience as much as you possibly can whilst you are holidaying here.

Our Activity Wales team are available to chat on 01437 766888 or you can e-mail info@activitywales.com.

Winners of Father's Day Competition

A big thank you to all entrants into our Activity Wales Father's Day competition, we very much enjoyed having a look at all of your pictures! We are now delighted to reveal the lucky winners along with their fantastic prizes:

Emma was lucky enough to win a Paintballing session at Adventure's Outdoor Activity Centre, Helen is to claim Coasteering at Celtic Quest Coasteering, and then both Non and Matthew are to visit Heatherton for a game of Adventure Golf.

Activity Wales would like to thank our fabulous activity providers who generously donated these great prizes that have been won within this Father's Day competition.

It only seems like yesterday I was typing away talking about Father's Day last year, and low and behold it has come back round again on Sunday 19th June.

This year Activity Wales are running a competition on Facebook where you can win a special treat for dad this Father's Day. All we ask is for you to upload your dad doing his favourite activities and the best picture we receive will win a great day out for dad! Closing date for pics is 15th June so get to taking those pictures now...

Don't forget that Activity Wales have plenty of experience in arranging fantastic days out for all of the family, that would be perfect to show dad how special he is this Father's Day. We have a variety of Experience Days to choose from to suit every different dad, whether he is a fan of a round or two of Golf in the afternoon (with you as bag carrier!), an admirer of the natural world who has always wanted to try a family Bushcraft day to obtain new skills, or fancies an exploration of the crooks and crannies of the coastline with a Wildlife Boat Trip.

A fantastic new activity that we have welcomed onto our portfolio recently is Zorbing, which is an experience not to be missed, keeping your dad rolling and rolling like a hamster in a ball whilst you either decide to watch in laughter from the side lines or pluck up the courage and join him!

You can view a full list of our activity experience days on the left hand side of the home page. If you can't find what you are looking for, then please do not hesitate in giving a member of our Activity Wales team a call on 01437 766888 as we would be more than happy to help.

Picture Perfect in Pembrokeshire

Always wanted to know how to take a cracking picture or how is feels to pose for the camera? Ideal for a budding photographer or a family portrait, our exclusive photography experience days in Pembrokeshire make a perfect pressie for loved ones.

Ross Grieve Photography has given Activity Wales two very exclusive experience days that you won't be able to find anywhere else, where our clients can book a Studio Photography Lesson or Studio Portrait Experience in Pembrokeshire, South Wales.

The Studio Portrait Experience is an ideal way to celebrate a special occasion with friends and family as you partake in a personal portrait shoot in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, helping you all to pose at ease and ensure you are picture perfect. At the end of your 45 minute portrait shoot you are able to choose you three favourite pics to have developed and are yours to keep and preserve as a lasting memory to mark your special occasion.

Alternatively, if you know of a close friend that would love to have a Studio Photography Lesson and benefit from expert guidance and advice then this can also be arranged. The hour long lesson welcomes you to bring along your own camera if you have one, and the photographer will talk you through each feature the camera inhabits and how to use each to it's full extent. As a special souvenir, you will choose one of your own images you have taken within the hour to bring home with you.

Both of our Photography Experience Days make an ideal gift and both are exclusive sessions to ourselves at Activity Wales. Either our Studio Photography Lesson or Portrait Experience would make a special gift this Father's Day, as well as a thoughtful birthday or anniversary celebration.

A Royal Event at Pembroke Castle

The talk of every town at the moment is the wondrous wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton as an abundance of coverage is obtained throughout the press in anticipation of their special day on 29th April.

And as it should be, as they will be setting up their home in Anglessey, North Wales where old P-Willy is a fine search and rescue pilot in the RAF. Kate, (oops I stand corrected) Catherine is believe it or not the oldest Royal bride to get married, perhaps young Will's should have pulled his finger out a little sooner!

The next biggest question aside to what will Catherine, the beautiful blushing bride be wearing, is of course how will you be celebrating?

If you are yet to be decided then Activity Wales may have the answer with our Royal Wedding Event at Pembroke Castle which is entry by ticket holders only. This exclusive event will help you to enjoy Prince William and Catherine's wedding is style in beautiful, Pembrokeshire surroundings.

We are welcoming you to celebrate the Royal Wedding surrounded by the serene surroundings of Pembroke Castle, a magnificent stature with a proud and compelling poise. Pembroke Castle will be welcoming your arrival from 9am, allowing visitors to enjoy full access to the Castle, historic sites and exhibitions.

For the fabulous Royal Wedding itself live coverage will be shown by an outdoor screen on the castle lawns at 11am. You can bring along your own picnics and relax on a blanket embraced by a pleasant timeshare with your family, yet there will be opportunity to have food from the cafe, with a sneaky glass of champagne or pimms purchased from the bar if you so wish!

During the Royal and remarkable day many festivities will be ongoing in the background, such as live music and activities to include falconry display, circus, face painting and an ever popular with the whole family a bouncy castle. For all children attending this miraculous event, if they fancy getting dressed up to the hilt for a day then they will be welcomed to enter into the prince and princess fancy dress competition that will be held within the Castle grounds.

Your hottest tickets in town can be snapped up by calling a member of our Activity Wales team on 01437 766888 - call now to save any disappointment as they won't be around for long!

Tenby named Wales' Top Beach!

I cannot feel anymore proud than knowing that the beautiful beach of Tenby in my very own divine County of Pembrokeshire has been named Wales' top beach!

Tenby is right on my doorstep and I already feel very lucky to be only a short drive away from Tenby and many other terrific, unspoilt beaches but now, after this massive achievement I am flying high right over the moon!

Tenby is a beautiful place that is loved by so many people whether it be lucky locals or appreciative holiday makers to our charming Pembrokeshire County. The beaches in Tenby are a marvel themselves, with the stretches of golden sands, rugged rocks and blue seas washing upon the shingle. When then complimented by the pastel coloured terraced buildings in the background, cobbled streets winding through the town and brisk walks around Castle Rock and along the Esplanade, Tenby is simply a pretty place painted in preparation to make a perfect postcard picture.

What is gratifying about this recognition for Tenby is that it has become 'top beach' in Wales through the admiration from travellers around the world, who have visited Tenby and really liked what they saw. For that, a massive thank you and well done should be given to those who help to preserve, maintain and cuddle all our beaches in Pembrokeshire.

Tenby is also host to some massive events this coming year, starting with The Long Course Weekend over Friday 3rd - Sunday 6th June. Following the first year for the event in 2010, many athletes and their supporters travelled in their hoards to witness the Long Course Weekend to admiring Tenby's spectacular scenery, views and friendly atmosphere.

The Long Course Weekend is then a warm up and training weekend further to the marvel of the first ever Ironman Wales on Sunday 11th September 2011!

Not only has Tenby gained this great admiration from travellers on TripAdvisor, Pembrokeshire's 186 mile coastal path has been named the second best in the UK by readers and judges at Coast magazine. As a keen walker myself this has really polished my walking boots!

Wow, what two terrific achievements. Well done Tenby and well done to our hidden spectacle of Pembrokeshire.

Kiteboarding in Pembrokeshire

As the marvel that is Kiteboarding was recently featured on BBC's Countryfile with David Ursell, I thought it may be a nice idea to mention that through Activity Wales we can offer this delightful Kiteboarding experience in Pembrokeshire, South West Wales.

Big Blue Kitesurfing welcome visitors to Pembrokeshire all year round, to discover new and exciting coastal experiences upon the fabulous 3 mile stretch of sandy beach, Newgale. Backed by a large pebble bank, a defence against the high tide, and abundance of flat sand and clear waters it is obvious why this beach offers an amazing setting for getting to grips with Kiteboarding, Powerkiting, Wakeboarding, Kitesurfing, Paddleboarding and learning to control a Zap Cat.

As it was Kiteboarding that was presented by BBC's Countryfile, I feel it's only fair to offer a little further insight as to what this experience entails and why all should give it a go in Pembrokeshire.

Kiteboarding requires only light wind behind you and offers a great alternative to Kitesurfing as you don't get wet! Kiteboarding uses similar skills to Kitesurfing, during your experience you will learn the board skills required to cruise safely along the beach, speed control, changing direction, stopping (!) and all important safety awareness and beach use.

Big Blue Kitesurfing are masters of teaching all things wacky and exciting across the beach and cruising the sea. Big Blue are more than happy to welcome complete beginners to Kiteboarding or any of their other experiences I have mentioned They also have the skills, knowledge and professionalism to offer guidance and progression with hardcore advanced techniques such as jumps, power slides, turns and rotations.

The season is really kicking in now for activities such as Kiteboarding, Kitesurfing, Wakeboarding, Power Kiting and Zap Cats and throughout the summer advanced booking is highly recommended.

Please feel free to contact Activity Wales on 01437 766888 or e-mail info@activitywales.com for booking and to discuss any questions you may have.

All things wonderful about Wales

Wales will be celebrating Saint David's Day tomorrow, Tuesday 1st March.



St David's Day to me signifies the start of the Spring and as I am typing away this afternoon looking out the window, the sun is shining high in the bright blue sky with only a scattering of cloud. The gorgeous vibrance of the Daffodil which flourishes throughout March always makes me smile too.



I also know that pretty soon after celebrating St David's Day, Mother's Day and Easter are all too quick to follow. That's why I thought I would get ahead of the game and make sure everyone gets to planning their pressies in plenty of time!



Mother's Day rocks up first on Sunday 3rd April...



Activity Wales have years of experience when it comes to arranging special treats for mum and this Mother's Day snapping up one of our fantastic gift ideas will truly say thanks to mum in style.



If you are looking for a special and thoughtful gift then choosing one of our Mother's Day Experience Day Gift Vouchers will not disappoint.



For the more adventurous of mums who are never shy to try something new we have exciting activity experiences such as Harness and Hydro Zorbing, Quad Biking and Coasteering.



If you're mum is still a fan of the old favourites then within our immense portfolio you can still find reputable experiences such as Spa Day Packages, Horse Riding and Pleasure Flights that will never fail to raise a smile.



Struggling to choose? Then think about purchasing an Open Activity Gift Voucher with Activity Wales and let mum make her own decision!



And then Easter to follow beginning with Good Friday on 22nd April...



Easter a great time to get all the family together to have an abundance of fun and eat an excessive amount of chocolate for breakfast.

If you are thinking about getting away from home for a weekend break or a seven night stay this Easter holiday then we could definitely sort out a getaway suited to your individual requirements.



To help give you an idea of what we can offer you through Activity Wales, our Easter Eggs and Pembrokeshire Fun package has proved very popular with past holiday makers as well as our Pembrokeshire Group Getaway or Special Easter Break for Two.



If you can't find what you are looking for or would like some advice on arranging your perfect Easter break then please feel free to call a member of our team on 01437 766888 or e-mail info@activitywales.com and we will be able to help as much as we can.



Our beautiful Wales truly is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.

Explore Sea Kayaking Weekend

If you are looking for a chilled weekend on the sea learning to progress your Sea Kayaking skills, then TYF Adventure's Explore Sea Kayaking Weekend is the course to book and enjoy.

The Explore Sea Kayaking Weekend is run over two days discovering all that is fantastic about Pembrokeshire's St David's Peninsula. TYF Adventure have an abundance of experienced guides that will pass on their knowledge of coastal waters to you providing the opportunity for you to learn all about the handling skills specific to Sea Kayaking surrounded by an outstanding ragged coastline.

Particular areas that are covered during the Explore Sea Kayaking Weekend would be the skills specific to Sea Kayak handling, tidal planning and navigation, rescue skills, understanding weather forecasts and advice in choosing the right kayak for you.

This Sea Kayaking weekend will have you developing exciting new skills over the two days, and there will also be plenty of time for you to sit back and admire all of the beauty which is unique to our Pembrokeshire National Park that surrounds you in every direction.

TYF do run this particular weekend in small groups on pre-scheduled dates throughout the higher season with a maximum of six participants per one guide, to ensure that each individual is able to achieve their full potential.

Forthcoming dates for the Explore Sea Kayaking Weekend have been set as 21st and 22nd May, 18th and 19th June, 24th and 25th September. Please note that this course has proven to be very popular with both locals and visitors to the county and places do fill up fast!

TYF are also happy to set up additional courses to those mentioned above, subject to a minimum of 4 participants and availability.

For further details and booking please do not hesitate in calling a member of our Activity Wales team on 01437 766888 or via e-mail info@activitywales.com.

All Terrain Services offer a fantastic array of off road driving experiences in Wales.

Whether you are a junior or adult driver, they have a session for all in both their North and South Wales locations. Wrexham plays host for their North Wales facility and Pontardawe welcomes you to the South.

All Terrain Services are a passionate company oozing enthusiasm for all things off road and do their very best to find the right session to suit your experience, ability and age.

For juniors that just can't wait to get behind the wheel All Terrain offer a one hour exclusive session alongside a fully qualified driver to teach the main principles of driving off road, negotiating obstacles and variable ground conditions.

For those holding a full driving license the opportunities are endless.

From one hour driving taster experiences, one to one exclusives, unique half days to the loaded full days of off roading, there really is something to suit every driver.

In advance, all of the above experiences are set on pre-scheduled dates subject to demand. Courses do fill up rapidly so it is always best to be thinking ahead of when would be convenient for you to go.

In addition to the many off road experiences that All Terrain Services offer, Quad Biking in Swansea is another activity they run suitable for participants over the age of 16 years.

All of the experiences offered by All Terrain Services can be found online which offer you further details and information on each individual session to peruse.

If you are thinking of purchasing one of the driving days as a gift for someone then they are all available to book as an experience day gift voucher, which come neatly presented in a gift box with free drawstring sports bag. You can choose to process your booking online or over the phone if you wish.

If you have any questions then please give a member of our team a call on 01437 766888 or e-mail info@activitywales.com.

Planet Zorb in North Wales

Roll up, roll up and let's get dizzy racing downhill with this new and exciting addition to our ever growing Activity Wales portfolio. Introduce Zorbing in North Wales...

Planet Zorb are offering you an amazing opportunity to try the latest adventure in North Wales, Zorbing. Planet Zorb have created a brand new, specifically designed Zorbing course that will see you cover ground of over 230 metres bouncing and rolling like a hamster in a transparent ball. This course is actually the second longest run in Europe.

Based in Gwynedd, Planet Zorb offer both Harness and Hydro Zorbing.

Harness Zorbing has you strapped inside the inner capsule of an enormous plastic air-cushioned ball, face to face with your fellow rider. As you gain speed there is no need to worry about the bumps and bouncing as your outer transparent ball will absorb any impact.

Hydro Zorbing on the other hand adds a splash of a respectable 30 litres of water to the experience! For the Hydro Zorbing you are not within a harness, so you will find yourself and a friend sliding from side to side, back and forward as you continue to roll down the hill.

Activity Wales have now created Experience Days that you can purchase online for both Harness Zorbing and Hydro Zorbing with our fantastic new provider Planet Zorb.

February Family Half Term Holiday

Pembrokeshire is a fabulous setting for a holiday with the family and that is why this February Half Term gives you the excuse you need to get something booked up.

Bring along the whole family and get ready to enjoy a full board, popular family adventure holiday within the inspirational Pembrokeshire National Park. This fun holiday is perfect for parents who are looking to spend quality time with their kids, resting your head within a fully catered five star eco-lodge receiving top notch hospitality throughout your stay. During the days partake in the best adventures of Coasteering, Sea Kayaking, Surfing and Coastal walks and by night toast marshmallows on a roaring fire under the stars and frolic on a moonlit beach.

Sounds like something you would all enjoy?

Your Family Adventure Holiday would be from only £429 per adult and £349 for under 16's.

For further information and booking please call a member of our Activity Wales team on 01437 766888 or e-mail info@activitywales.com.

Give us a kiss for Wales!

We are getting closer to celebrating the day of love in Wales. Tomorrow is St Dwynwen's Day who is our welsh patron saint of love. Aww. I can't help but feel that it's almost exclusive to people in Wales, which is pretty sweet really.

So when you live in Wales there is one day in January and another in February which are both bursting with love, giving you the opportunity to officially turn into a soppy old sausage and get away with it. Twice.

Come on, we all know that Valentine's Day is the only time your partner gives in to having a good old smooch and cuddle on the sofa. Really? It is just me then...

As much as I think that Valentine's Day these days has gone a little too far with all the hype and silly nonsense, I can't seem to help but get involved. I suppose when you strip back all the crazy hysteria, you are left with the true meaning of Valentine's Day. Love.

I think for this year, we all should embrace our welsh St Dwynwen's Day by sending a little card with an abundance of hearts at your signature, then arrange something special and out of this world for a couple of weeks later.

I know that you would love to whisk your loved one away for a romantic weekend this year, so what are you waiting for? Give us a call and let us arrange everything for you. Your accommodation, activities, flowers and chocs will be sorted. We may even throw in a bottle of bubbly too.

I should skim back here a little to the 'romantic' label I just referred to in relation to the weekend. If you're not too fussed on the whole lovey dovey, kissy kissy act then it really doesn't have to be anything like that at all. Waltzing down a racing river in a raft could always be an option!

If nothing else, let this Valentine's Day be a time for spending time away from home doing something fun, together. Wales is an amazing place to discover with it's beautiful countryside, clean seas, sandy beaches and unspoilt, attractive scenes everywhere. Wherever you go there is plenty to visit and explore.

We truly have some amazing activity experience days and short break packages that are perfect for celebrating Valentine's Day in style. Whatever gets your juices flowing I am positive that there is something for everyone.

Always wanted to spend the weekend horse riding through the woods, quad biking through the valley, racing through the rapids or even skydiving from a plane we can make it real.

For full package details and experience days take the time to browse our website. But if you find yourself needing any guidance, advice or availability then please do not hesitate in giving us a call on 01437 766888 or emailing your enquiry through to info@activitywales.com.

Pembrokeshire Coastal Adventures

Pembrokeshire is perfect for an amazing coastal adventure with friends and family and it's about time you discovered it's unspoilt and ragged coastline.

Think back to when you were a child and having all those days out down the beach. Now count how many times your mum told you not to go jumping off rocks, walking along the clifftops or playing in the caves. If only she had heard of Coasteering it would of been made clear that there really is so much fun to be had with doing all of those daring things, it's all about living on the edge.






I think one day a pretty cool dad realised that we should be enjoying the wilder side of the sea and brought together the idea of swimming, exploring the crooks and crannies of the caves, jumping off rocks and climbing the coast, made it 'allowed' and gave it a name...Coasteering.






Coasteering has truly bouldered to become the big cheese and 'must do' activity in Pembrokeshire for everyone, regardless of whether you are a budding Paris Hilton or a sofa hugging Jim Royal! When you are comfortably positioned under the wing of a highly experienced and qualified instructor even the most timid of participants will be ready to take on the very best of whatever the coast, sea and rocks can throw up us a challenge.




If you fancy trying something new this year then Coasteering really should be up there as number one and I can assure you that Pembrokeshire will welcome you with open arms.

Wicked Liquid Coasteering weekend dates have now been set with the first being over 25th-27th March followed with the next over 29th April-1st May provided by a passionate provider based in Mathry, Pembrokeshire. Mid-week dates can also be arranged on demand and subject to availability.

During your Wicked Liquid weekend dedicated to the thrill of Coasteering you have the following included:

• Two nights 5* Eco-Lodge accommodation
• Home cooked food from Friday evening to Sunday lunch
• Two half days of Coasteering and a breathtaking coastal hike
• All specialist equipment and qualified instruction
• Transport for all activities
• Train station transfers on certain services
  
  

Prices for this Coasteering corker of a weekend are from only £209 per person. You'd be mad to miss out on this jam-packed adventure, so call all your friends now!

As an alternative, we can also create the above package as a gift voucher if you are looking for a present with a difference for that special someone. We have designed the vouchers to allow you to book for a single person or as a couple. They are the perfect pressie as they give the recipient the choice to sort out booking a suitable weekend date for themselves. All our gift vouchers come neatly packed in a presentation box with free drawstring sports bag.






For any further information on our gift voucher option, weekend itinerary, finer details and booking please call a member of our Activity Wales team on 01437 766888 as we would be more than happy to help.