The region to the north of Snowdonia National Park is another type of Wales, one that is riddled with contradictions that simultaneously help and hinder it. Here we find some of the nation’s most picturesque castles and its most charming towns, alluring villages of grace that defy the decades of economic neglect that the fringes of Wales have lived through in recent times. That neglect is clear to all with working eyes, but survival is what the Welsh do. Making sweet lemonade from lemons? That is what the Welsh do.

Conwy is the country’s finest town, a defiant combination of coastal charm and independence, a town full of family-run shops housed in beautiful architecture. Britain’s smallest house, the finest castle in Wales, stunning Edwardian architecture and the best selection of bars, pubs and cafes in North Wales are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Conwy.

Llandudno? The Queen of Victorian seaside resorts remains just that — the Queen. The paint is beginning to chip and the boards are creaking but Llandudno has retained all the class and importance that such a town deserves, nay, demands. The restaurant selection is excellent, high quality spots made to impress, but there are more than enough chippies to go around. The Great Orme towers above it all, a protective big brother that holds its own secrets.

The two are separated by less than five miles, loving brothers or squabbling sisters that compete for attention but are both deserving of all you have. Cover all the ground you can, and try to work out whether you could live in that tiny house. Not a chance…