The welcome – or, as we like to say, ‘croeso’ – is also something that sets Wales apart. It’s a country known for its generosity of spirit. Whatever your level of skill, you’ll find that – unlike other destinations that have for too long rested on their laurels – there’s nothing remotely elitist or intimidating about the watersports scene. Watersports in Wales is free-spirited and friendly. Local surfers and sailors have a genuine passion for their favourite beaches and bays, and will want to share their pleasure with you whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills. And as a bonus, you’ll welcome the value for money.

Whatever you want to do on the water you’ll find it in Wales. Back on dry land there’s hospitality of the highest order. Getting the most out of watersports can be as much about lifestyle as anything else – and in Wales you won’t be short-changed on the style. Forget those old images of tired seaside B&Bs. Wales’s hotels, inns, bistros and bars are as cosmopolitan as they come. You can stay in chic seafront townhouses or boutique hotels, cosy inns or luxury country house hotels – and everywhere you go you’ll have the choice of delicious freshly prepared local foods such as lobster and lamb, Welsh Black beef and sewin (the local name for sea trout).

Another plus point, believe it or not, is the climate. Wales and watersports aren’t weather dependent. Although summer is, for many, the best time to come, sports like surfing and coasteering can be as – if not more – exciting in the big swells of autumn and winter. With the improvement in modern equipment and wetsuits, it’s easy to make watersports a year-round habit, especially since the Gulf Stream’s warming effects along the Welsh coast keep water temperatures well in the comfort zone for much of the time.

And if it’s cold outside there’s always the warmth of a snug pub, blazing log fires or the big sofas of a plush hotel to look forward to after an exhilarating day out on the waves or tumbling down a white-water course.

The Welsh coast is full of life throughout the year. Festivals, regattas, races and events take place all along the coast. Some are funky and laid-back, others reflect a long-standing maritime tradition. All are part of Wales’s thriving watersports culture.

There’s one more attraction too. Take a look at a map. You won’t want to waste precious time if you’re on a short break. The good news is that you’ll be in Wales before you know it. Contrary to popular misconception, Wales is just a few easy hours from most of the UK’s main centres of population, with amazingly speedy and straightforward motorway and dual-carriageway links from all points east.

So bring your board. Hop on a boat. Get wet. Get along to Wales. We look forward to welcoming you. For the full picture and more information on a big-hearted watersports country, search our databases for watersports centres, operators and locations!