What? An 8km cycle along the Taff trail to Wales’s fairytale castle

Where? Tongwynlais, Cardiff

Cadw site to see: Castell Coch

Most ‘Instagrammable’ spots: arguably the most ‘Instagrammable’ site of all, Castell Coch offers an array of 'must-snap’ photo opportunities. For the ultimate fairy-tale inspired image, sit in one of the Drawing Room’s sumptuous bay windows and look down upon Tongwynlais.

Follow in the footsteps of the Victorian Bute family and begin your visit to their holiday home at Castell Coch, from within the former grounds of their residence at Cardiff Castle — Bute Park.

Pack yourself a picnic, hire a bike from nearby Pedal Power or visit You Well for more local bike hire information and put your foot to pedal along the Taff Trail. Suitable for families and cycling novices alike, the 8km road-safe route will take you along the west bank of the River Taff until you reach the Grade I listed Victorian monument in Tongwynlais.  Don’t forget to look out for the famed Principality Stadium, the historic Melingriffith water-pump and quaint village of Llandaff along the way.

With its conical towers and needle-sharp turrets peeking out from a wooded slope, on arrival you will see the fantastical Castell Coch emerge through the trees — creating an idyllic vision of the Middle Ages, as designed by Victorian architect William Burges.

Built from medieval ruins into a luxury Victorian holiday home, the site’s exterior looks like something from a fairytale — and its interior is equally as magical. From its dazzling ceiling décor to its affluent furnishings, grand fireplaces and even intricately painted scenes from Aesop's Fables upon the walls, the unique castle is truly a novel sight to behold and boasts Instagram photo opportunities aplenty.

Complete your afternoon with a visit to the site’s quaint tearooms, which offer a huge selection of tasty treats — all sourced from exclusively Welsh suppliers. You can even order a signature Castell Coch coffee blend!