As the lush locations of Wales are brought to life in the Keira Knightley and Sienna Miller-starring The Edge of Love, the ruggedness and magic of the ancient landscape set the scene for an epic love story centred on one of Wales' favourite and most famous sons, the poet, Dylan Thomas.
Filmed on location in Carmarthenshire, Lampeter, Laugharne, Cardigan and Tenby, the film reveals what visitors to Wales have always known: that whether you're looking for a short break during which to get away from it all, an action-packed vacay of riding mountain bikes and climbing mountains, or a vibrant Saturday night on the pulsating streets of Cardiff, Wales is an unexpected treasure.
For a truly magical day out, head to one of the imposing castles that dot the stunning countryside. Dating back to the Middle Ages, you'll find both restored and ruined options to spend a morning strolling around. Caerphilly Castle is probably the most famous; one of the UK's largest medieval fortresses, it's a fantastic place to take the kids, and if you time your trip to coincide with their annual cheese festival, foodies will be in their element too.
Want to add a spooky slant to your hols? Then make sure you swing by Bodelwyddan Castle, which boast a ghostly soldier who haunts the gallery, and even a spectre in the tea room!
From all you can eat to all you can do
The Abergavenny Food Festival (17-18 September) has been dubbed "to food, what Cannes is to film", so if you're thrilled by watching artisans create dishes - and sampling them too - then the Fest, celebrating its 12th year in 2011, is a must. Classical music fans simply must plan their trip around the aural spectacular that is the ‘Spirit of Llangollen' series of events in October, in which choirs from across Wales battle it out to win the top prize, and your ears will be treated to some of the most angelic sounds this side of heaven. Naturally, no trip to Wales would be complete without a visit to the incredible Snowdonia National Park, where you'll find stretches of unspoilt, rugged coastline, quaint villages, the stunning Llyn Peninsula and, of course, the imposing peaks of Mount Snowdon. Finally, add a city-visit to your Welsh holiday with a trip to Cardiff, where the shopping rivals that of any European city. Find farmers' markets packed with local fare, and top off your day, with a visit to Cardiff's Michelin-starred Crown Social restaurant at the chic Parc Hotel.
Boarding pass
Destination Wales, United Kingdom
Filmed there The Edge of Love, First Knight, Tomb Raider 2, Half Light
Celeb fans Catherine Zeta Jones and Michael Douglas, Demi Moore, Sean Connery
Fly there... British Airways fly from Dubai to London on a daily basis. And from London Gatwick, BA flies daily to Cardiff. Visit www.ba.com for more info.
