Taking three children , three and under , away for a weekend might seem daunting. But it doesn’t have to be.
We’ve taken all six , and the smallest three, to London , wales , the beach and on other trips. I honestly think it’s only as difficult or stressful as you make it. So here’s our most recent trip and a few tips i’ve learned along the way.
Where we went / stayed;
Abersoch! In the top 3 of places we want to move. We’ve been holidaying here multiple times a year since we met and have always loved it. From it’s summer micro climate & dolphins off the beach , to windy winter months and flying kites. It’s so simple and laid back . We love it here as most the places to stay are quite quaint. There’s always a good country walk without much technology or screen time. We actually opted to stay somewhere without wifi or good signal so we wouldn’t be on our phones and would just be more present.
This cottage we booked on Air BnB ( Our usual go to ) and it was a very last minute trip. I like using Air BnB so we can make sure it has basic kitchen use and a travel cot etc. There’s all kinds of options from luxury homes with hot tubs to yurts and unique places to stay.
This cottage was just perfect for us. It was in the middle of a country estate with the most beautiful walks and estate in the middle. The house was in a private walled garden and I can’t wait to go back again in summer and see it all in full bloom.
What we packed / Essentials
The Girls had each got their new Olli Ella See Ya suitcases for Christmas so they were going to be a must. We try pack light and keep it easy = less stress. They all had their Pjs in , A jumper and clean undies.
A joint wash bag and theyre good to go.
We pack a basic big back pack for the car / the drive and the general day to day . About 5-7 nappies each for the smaller two , a pack of wipes a small pack of pencils and paper for the bigger two ( great for the car or when were eating ) and some teething toys for coast. We knew it would be cold so Arket beanie hats all round.
We try always book a place to stay that will have basic toiletries etc so we can cut down on what we take.
What we did;
We drove down early in the morning , picking up my in laws on the way . We drove straight to Abersoch and had a long walk along the beach , babes in carriers and wellies. We were planning on driving to the cottage after a few hours so only had a few hours on the parking and accidentally ( I’ll get to that ) stayed over and now have a parking fine, YAY ( not) . The girls love walking along beaches regardless of the weather and played at chasing the tide ( Thank goodness they had wellies on ) . Blowing the city cobwebs off and just been in the fresh air was wonderful.
Freshly freezing we headed to our local favorite pub , the vaynol. A drink to warm up we realised they had a new pizza menu so ended up staying late and filling up . But boy it was worth it, If your close to Abersoch or wanting to visit , you want the garlic bread with caramelised onions.
We headed to the cottage which was about a 30 minute drive , it’s so beautiful inside, we had packed a little hamper of my inlaws favorite treats and snacks , and a cheeky bottle of wine. The girls went to bed super easy. Marlowe in a big girl single bed and Liberty i the provided travel cot. They both always travel with their own blankets from home. I find it helps them to settle faster and feel happier and more content.
We stayed up setting the world to rights and watched Eddie the Eagle on the TV ( never seen it , had no idea who he was , would definitely recommend.) A great night sleep later it was showers all round and a cheeky bit of toast.
Our check out wasn’t until 11 but we got everyone ready , wrapped up and warm to go explore the grounds. We got the car packed so we could get off when we had finished but the walk would be so worth doing multiple times. I had Coast in the pram this time so we didn’t get to walk all the paths. It was beauty after beauty . I can’t put into words what a beautiful woodland it was.
We headed back to Abersoch for a late Brunch followed by the beach again . Super windy meant it was kite day. Marlowe picked a new unicorn kite and it was a dream . I love these outdoor activities with the kids. Theres honestly nothing like flying a kite or the memories it makes. My girls love Mary Poppins so I’m sure that helps. In a time where everything is about screen time and material belongings an hour running on the beach is one gift any child will treasure.
A nip to the vaynol to warm up again was on the cards , It’s not a weekend away without wine right? This time i snook the girls and Nanny out for a cheeky treat at Two islands while the boys had some ‘ guy time ‘.
Two islands is a story in itself. Pretty much the epitome of what we want to do , the couple behind this ice cream parlour are just wonderful and their produce is to die for. Vegan ice cream of dreams. coffee of the gods and that salted caramel brownie… well I felt full and a bit sick half way through but i still ate it all. I wasn’t leaving it for anyone .
You can follow them here ; https://www.instagram.com/twoislandsicecream/
A long drive home and the children were fast asleep before we got back , slipped straight into bed and a great nights sleep. It might not be Disney land or a two week jaunt . But small Meaning ful trips not only create beautiful memories, they teach children about travel , different places and new experiences. Our kids are used to eating out and how to behave in different situations like tube stations , busy coffee shops , near the sea etc. Short visits keep things fresh for kids and not over powering .
We love you Abersoch and we will be back soon.
