Cardiff is a shopper’s dream; all 1.4 million square feet of it. St David’s Centre is packed with big-brand names and new stores to discover, plus a load of different places to eat and drink. Then visit the city’s charming Victorian Arcades, full of quirky finds, vintage clothes stores and unique places to catch a bite to eat. Where to start?

Look out for: The Morgan Arcade is home to Spillers; first opened in 1894 it is said to be the oldest record shop in the world.

A visit to Cardiff isn’t complete without absorbing a bit of history at Cardiff Castle. Dominating one end of Queen Street, the city’s main shopping street, the site has a rich story with Roman origins and underground secrets from WWII.

Look out for: The castle’s resident peacocks; always happy to show off for visitors

If there’s one thing that unites the people of Wales, it’s Rugby. Here the Welsh Rugby Team do battle with opponents from all over the world. The scale of the 74,000-capacity stadium is a sight in itself. And if you’re lucky enough to be in town where there’s a match on, don’t miss it; there’s no place like Cardiff on match day.

Look out for: Dragon’s Lair, it’s what the Wales’ team call their dressing room.

The beautiful Glamorgan coastline boasts pretty seaside villages like Penarth, alongside the cheery resorts of Barry Island and Porthcawl, and the strikingly unspoiled Gower Peninsula. Catch a sea breeze and a panoramic view, before heading to the fun fair for candy floss and a spin on the dodgems.

Look out for: Live music at St Donat’s Arts Centre in the grounds of one of Wales oldest inhabited castles.

Less than 40 minutes from the hotel you’ll find the adrenalin-pumping Bike Park Wales. Bike trails for all abilities and ages criss-cross through woodland and over mountains, like a ski resort for wheels. Hire a bike or bring your own.

Look out for: Max-out on the downhills with an Uplift pass that’ll take you straight to the top of the mountain.

Opening in 1948, St Fagans National Museum of History was the UK's first open air museum. Explore the 16th Century St Fagans Castle and gardens, or one of over 40 historical buildings that have been rebuilt in the museum’s grounds. Best of all, entry is free.

Look out for: Hear the dialects, folk tales and songs of the Welsh language that have been meticulously recorded over the years preserving the country’s oral history.

Wherever you travel in Wales there’s a castle to remind you of the country’s rich history.

If you’re heading out of Cardiff on the M4 motorway, look out for Castell Coch rising out of the trees. Stop for a visit and you’ll be charmed by this beautifully turreted example of Victorian eccentricity. Wonderfully over-the-top, it’s fit for a princess.

Further afield is Caerphilly Castle, Wales’ largest and one of the greatest surviving castles of the medieval Western world. With its massive gatehouse and moat, its sheer scale is worth the visit.

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to South Wale’s highest peak, Pen Y Fan in the Brecon Beacons. At 886m above sea level the mountain views are spectacular. Thanks to the National Trust, the strenuous walk is made easier with well maintained footpaths and car parks.

Look out for: Try the circular walk between the twin peaks of Pen y Fan and Corn Du.

We know it doesn’t grow on trees but have you ever wondered where our money is made? Take in The Royal Mint Experience at Llantrissant, 30 minutes from the hotel, to find out how coins are designed and created.

Look out for: Worth your weight in gold - step on the scales to find out how much.