Dylan Coastal Resort: our amazing discovery on a family weekend in Wales

Craving an escape from London recently, Breeana Nolan opted for a family weekend in Wales at stunning Dylan Coastal Resort on the country’s beautiful and beachy southwest coast.

Dylan Coastal Resort, Laugharne, southwest Wales

Nestled along the breathtaking coast of southwest Wales, Dylan Coastal Resort in Laugharne blends luxury and natural beauty, all wrapped up in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What I didn’t expect was a comforting reminder of home, as this stretch of the Welsh coast bears an uncanny resemblance to the south coast of New South Wales in Australia and, it turns out, shares much the same laid-back charm.

Lodge with a view, Dylan Coastal Resort

The perfect retreat for an easy family weekend in Wales

The lodges at Dylan Coastal Resort aren’t short on charm either and every detail seems designed to enhance relaxation.

The open-plan layouts, sleek interiors, and high-end appliances make it easy to settle in and unwind.

My personal favourite? The private outdoor terrace, complete with a jacuzzi overlooking the estuary. There’s something almost poetic about sipping a morning coffee or an evening glass of bubbles while watching the sunrise, or sunset, and the ever-changing tides.

Infinity pool, Milk Wood Spa, Dylan Coastal Resort

Milk Wood House Spa is the shining jewel of Dylan Coastal Resort

Beyond the lodges, Milk Wood House Spa is, without a doubt, the shining jewel of Dylan Coastal Resort and stepping into its hydrotherapy infinity pool I felt an instant sense of serenity.

The spa also offers everything from rejuvenating massages to luxurious facials and, for those who want to keep up with their fitness routine, the gym’s view is very motivating.

But my perfect itinerary was simple: an easy session at the gym, then time in the pool and spa; followed by a leisurely drink at the Milk Wood Bar & Restaurant.

Milk Wood Restaurant, Dylan Coastal Resort

Where to eat well on your family weekend in Wales

Food is an essential part of any weekend escape, and Milk Wood Bar & Restaurant strikes the right balance of elevated, yet unpretentious, and the atmosphere is perfect, whether you’re in the mood for a quiet meal or keen to mingle.

If you want to stretch your culinary horizons just a little, I can highly recommend a meal at Dexter’s, the in-house restaurant at Browns Hotel. The Chateaubriand for Two was an absolute standout and could easily have fed four. Their cheese soufflé was another indulgent delight: light, airy, packed with flavour and a testament to the restaurant’s passion for refining comfort food.

Dylan Thomas Boathouse, Laugharne, southwest Wales

Explore the Dylan Thomas connection in nearby Laugharne

You might have guessed by now that Laugharne has deep-rooted connections to Dylan Thomas and, wandering through the charming town, it’s not difficult to imagine the poet drawing inspiration here.

Although for me, it was a visit to his former home, the Dylan Thomas Boathouse, and gazing over the same views he must have seen so many times, that really made me feel part of his world.

Discover local links to Harry Potter too

Browns Hotel, where we enjoyed that outstanding Chateaubriand, was also a favourite Dylan Thomas haunt, and seems his spirit is alive and well, as even on the wintery Sunday night we dropped in, the place was buzzing with a lively mix of locals and visitors.

Another local literary secret is Shell Cottage, just a short drive from Laugharne in Freshwater West, which Harry Potter fans will recognise as the setting for Dobby’s farewell scene in The Deathly Hallows’ movie.

MINI Countryman Electric, Dylan Coastal Resort

Stretch your horizons just a little to explore southwest Wales

For those wanting to venture beyond Laugharne, the nearby towns and beaches offer a mix of seaside traditions, beauty and history, and are a must-do on a family weekend in Wales.

Fortunately, the resort has a partnership with MINI, so we were able to take the MINI Countryman Electric for a spin round the local area: it’s the perfect car for nipping about coastal roads.

Tenby Harbour, southwest Wales

Tenby is another must-do for a family weekend in Wales

Of the local towns, Tenby is probably the most instantly recognisable, thanks to the photogenic collection of colourful Georgian houses which line its harbour. After you’ve taken the obligatory pic and played on the pretty beach, stroll inland from the sea to the town itself and you’ll find streets filled with independent shops, cafés and friendly, local restaurants.

Golfers should note, Tenby Golf Club is one of the oldest courses in Wales, and it goes without saying that the views are stunning. Perhaps it was because we were distracted by them that the course managed to swallow nearly all our golf balls.

Freshwater Beach, southwest Wales

Make for Freshwater West and brave the Welsh coast surf

Saundersfoot isn’t as famous as Tenby, but we liked the hipster vibe and it’s definitely somewhere that’s having a moment. Kids will love watching the boats come and go in the bustling harbour, and several excellent seafood restaurants serve catch of the day, fresh, every day.

If you’re looking to add a bit more adventure to a family weekend in Wales, the rugged beauty of Freshwater West alone is worth a trip to Wales. It’s also a must-visit surf spot, and when we visited a hardy bunch of experienced surfers in wet suits were out braving the waves, although we also noticed quite a few local surf schools offering lessons for beginners.

You may not want to hit the water, but Freshwater West’s dramatic sand dunes and endless horizon make it equally rewarding for family walks, even in chillier weather.

Lodge terrace at sunset, Dylan Coastal Resort

Dylan Coast Resort couldn’t have been a better choice for our family weekend in Wales

I can’t close without mentioning the exceptional service which truly sets Dylan Coastal Resort apart, and made our family weekend in Wales even more relaxing.

Every member of the team goes above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and cared for, but a special mention goes to Chia, the incredible concierge, who ensures no detail is overlooked.

Our host, Alison, also deserves all our praise for making us feel instantly at home, and last, but not least, a big thank you to restaurant staff, Katherine, Shannon and Patrick, for the impeccable service at Milk Wood Bar & Restaurant.

Dylan Coastal Resort strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort, offering high-end facilities, glorious views, and exceptional service all without any pretensions. Whether you are there for a spa retreat, an indulgent escape, or simply a family weekend away, it’s a wonderfully memorable experience and a place you’ll return to, time and time again.

I for one haven’t even scratched the surface of my newfound passion for southwest Wales, and not just because it reminds me of home.