A warm Welsh welcome

By Ali Webb

As a family who have always gone self-catering, my husband Pat and I were a little bit nervous about taking our two girls (aged 2 and 9) to a luxurious 4-star hotel for a mini-break but we were pleasantly surprised

Game to give it a try, we arrived at the Stradey Park Hotel in South West Wales and held our breath while the kids bounded in, through the automatic glass doors, to the beautifully decorated reception hall.

As my two-year-old, Holly, made herself at home by sprawling across the rather nice leather sofas, questions like, 'Did I wipe that last squished banana from her fingers?' ran through my mind. The reception staff greeted us with such a warm and friendly welcome that I was immediately put at ease.

First impressions last, and we were not disappointed. Beautiful decor - modern but comfortable, with spacious family suites of two rooms with an interlocking door, and a contemporary bath/shower room. Four days ahead to relax, unwind, take in some local sights, and absolutely no washing-up to do. Bliss.

Play time

Taking advantage of the early evening sunshine, we headed straight off to Parc Howard - only 10 minutes walk away - a wonderful Victorian park with separate play areas for the little 'uns and the older kids.

Our girls played happily having been given a rare 'late license' compared to normal bedtime hours. The big pirate ship and lovely play sand pit kept them entertained while we sat back and enjoyed the view across Camarthen Bay.

Four-star comfort

Back in the comfort of our family suite, we enjoyed a great nights' sleep (helped by the most enormous super king-size bed). Meanwhile, the girls, tucked up in their 'day' beds, and content with their wall-mounted flat screen TV, slept equally soundly. We rose ready for breakfast in the lovely surroundings of the Samphires restaurant.

Here, in the elevated dining room with stunning views, the girls' new 'best friends' (the team of very friendly staff) served up the most delicious and fresh brekky. The planned day ahead; taking in Anna Ryder Richardson's Wildlife Park, was enough excuse to devour the sausage, bacon and egg, and selection of fresh fruits and pastries on offer, before heading off.