Remember when weekends were for all-night raves and spontaneous road trips? Yeah, us neither. These days, it’s more like “surviving” another week of work and trying to remember where we put our car keys (again). So, when we finally managed to sneak away for a weekend at Llanerch Vineyard, let’s just say it was a much-needed dose of sanity (and deliciousness…especially the wine!).

Llanerch Vineyard: A Welsh Gem Just Minutes From Reality (aka Cardiff)

Now, we’re not talking some far-flung, “find yourself” retreat in the Himalayas (although, that does sound tempting after a particularly hectic week). Llanerch Vineyard is a mere 15-minute drive from Cardiff. That’s right, you can swap city stress for vineyard bliss in less time than it takes to find parking downtown (which, let’s be honest, is a miracle in itself).

Our Llanerch Adventure: From Lunch to Luxurious Lounging (and Lots of Wine)

Our mission? To relax, reconnect, and maybe drink a little bit of wine (strictly for research purposes, you understand). Llanerch delivered on all fronts, and then some.

Culinary Delights: Proof That Food (and Wine) is the Best Medicine

First up: lunch. The newly renovated dining room is stylish and relaxed—perfect for a grown-up date or a casual catch-up. And the food? Oh. My. Goodness. The chefs, Grady Atkins and Tom Martin (a seriously talented duo), have created a menu that’s a delightful fusion of classic French techniques and fresh Welsh ingredients. We’re talking melt-in-your-mouth dishes that make you question why you ever bothered with cooking at home.

From French Flair to Welsh Fare: A Menu to Remember

Think Welsh beef terrine with ravigote sauce (fancy, we know!) or confit Welsh pork belly with trotter sauce and caramelized apple. It’s the kind of food that makes you close your eyes and savor every bite, especially when paired with their expertly chosen wines.

A Toast to Welsh Wine: Llanerch’s Liquid Gold

Let’s talk about the real star of the show (besides the ridiculously comfy beds, but we’ll get to that): the wine. Llanerch Vineyard produces its own range of wines under the “Cariad” label, which, we learned, means “love” in Welsh. And let me tell you, there’s a lot to love.

Cariad: A Taste of Wales in Every Glass

We sampled a few of their offerings, and we were seriously impressed. Their sparkling wine was a particular highlight – crisp, refreshing, and perfect for celebrating… well, anything, really. We also tried their white wine, which was beautifully balanced and paired perfectly with our lunch. It’s clear that Llanerch puts a lot of care and attention into their winemaking, and it shows in the quality of their wines. It isn’t just a side hustle; it’s a passion, and you can taste it in every sip. We even took a few bottles home (again, for further “research”).

Rooms with a View (and a Seriously Comfy Bed)

After a delightful lunch (and a few glasses of wine), we checked into our room (because, hello, staycation!). Llanerch offers a range of accommodations:

• Stylish Studios and Apartments: Perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a bit more space.
• The Cariad Suite: This is where the magic happens. Think luxurious fabrics, vineyard views that are straight out of a postcard, a walk-in wardrobe (because who doesn’t love a good wardrobe?), and a bathroom that’s basically a spa in itself. If you’re looking for romance, a special occasion, or if you just want to treat yo’self, this is the place to be.

More Than Just a Meal: Experiences to Remember

Llanerch is more than just a place to eat and sleep; it’s an experience:

• Vineyard Tours and Tastings: Take a stroll through the vines, learn about the winemaking process from grape to glass, and, of course, sample the delicious results. This is a must-do for any wine lover.
• Woodland Walks: Explore the beautiful 22-acre grounds—perfect for a post-lunch stroll or a breath of fresh air.
• Cookery School and Culinary Events: If you’re feeling inspired (or just want to watch someone else do the cooking), check out their cooking classes or special culinary events.
• Weddings: Llanerch is a stunning wedding venue. We can see why—it’s picture-perfect!

Our Forty & Fearless Verdict: Llanerch Vineyard is a Must-Visit!

If you’re looking for a relaxing, fun, and delicious getaway, Llanerch Vineyard is the perfect escape. It’s got everything you need to recharge your batteries, reconnect with your partner, and enjoy some seriously good wine. So, ditch the chores, book a room (and a wine tasting!), and get ready for a weekend of wine, food, and fun. You deserve it!

Visit Llanerch Vineyard website or Book a stay at Hotel.com

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