Off to somewhere warm and exotic? No, not at all.  Lovely North Wales and Conwy in particular. A castle, a walled town and views over the water from the chaise long in the bedroom while sipping a glass of something…  And only four hours away.  We couldn’t resist marking the little cottage – beneath the castle in line with the red dot…

Bodnant Gardens are just a few miles away and worth a visit even in the winter. In fact their winter garden is full of colour and scent, especially from the daphne shrubs. One of the more unusual features was this willow sculpture, whose title I forget but the image speaks for itself.

And then to Barmouth to see my old Double Act partner Bernard and his wife Karen.  They took us to the local gallery where another Bernard – Barnes – has created some stunning artworks including this one on the end wall.  You can gauge the size by seeing where the door is.

The universe, creativity and everything…  And of course a visit to North Wales would not be complete without a trip to Portmeirion. Cue Sylv about to break into song from one of the balconies (above) and one of the many beautiful views.