Palé Hall is a luxury five-star country retreat set in the heart of North Wales in the tranquil Dee Valley, with the spectacular Snowdonia National Park on its doorstep. This grand historical, Victorian mansion was to be editor Kelly Andrews’ home from home for two nights, where she was able to experience the ultimate in hospitality and the acclaimed AA three-rosette and Michelin Green Star fine dining restaurant. Here Kelly explains why it’s well worth considering. A WARM WELCOME Pulling up at the front of the impressive Palé Hall, I was immediately warmly welcomed by its friendly reception team. This would be the last time I’d need to pay any attention to my luggage and indeed my car as I was immediately relieved from the former, which I’d meet again in my room; and the latter was parked for me. I already felt as though I was being met by friends as we cheerfully chatted on our way to my Grand Room, Denbigh. A spacious room on the upper floor, reached by the quaint lift, it was sumptuously decorated in warm yellows and golds with the feel of staying in someone’s home rather than a hotel. The highlight for me was the stunning view of the glorious gardens and Welsh mountains beyond. I was initially concerned about the lack of TV (the tennis championships at Queen’s Club was on at the time). I needn’t have worried though as my fear turned to delight as I was shown that the impressive mirror above the fireplace was in fact the cleverly disguised telly box. What a brilliant way to maintain the character of the room without marring it with ugly modernities! Each of the 18 rooms and suites are individually decorated and named. These include the Churchill named for the wartime Prime Minister who was an occasional guest at Palé Hall during the 1950s. This same suite is also where Queen Victoria would stay, a visit that was 10 years in the making before she eventually made it to North Wales. It impressively features the original bed, bath taps and vanity unit. DECADENT DINING That night, I headed down to dinner, which began with a cocktail in the charming Four Seasons Lounge. Here, I was able to peruse the fourcourse tasting menu as a preview to the mouthwatering meal I was about to be served. Again, the welcome could not have been warmer with everyone from restaurant manager Emily Jones (who is an absolute sweetheart) to the waiting staff remembering my name. This touch from the entire team really made the stay for me. The care they take to make their guests feel at home and special is second to none. Espresso Martini consumed, I was shown through to my table in the opulent Henry Robertson Dining Room, reminiscent of a Bridgerton set. The meal began with the chef’s selection of canapé s, and was followed by the fish course: John Dory with marinated Isle of Wight tomatoes, herb gnocchi, and a vanilla bouillabaisse. Main course was glazed poussin, a confit leg, creamed pearl barley, white cabbage, truffle and a tarragon vinaigrette. Being obsessed with cheese, I naturally plumped for the optional course of British fare, and finished with the decadent Nicolas Berger 75% single origin chocolate dessert. Every morsel created by head chef, Sam Griffiths (formerly of the Chester Grosvenor) was a dream! The next day I was treated to an afternoon tea of delicious finger sandwiches, soft and warm scones, and picture-perfect patisserie. Admittedly, it defeated me, but I was given a box to take what I couldn’t manage up to my room, and I devoured the sweet treats for my tea! I’d highly recommend the experience for you and your hens pre-wedding. Such a treat. HONEYMOON HEAVEN North Wales is an undeniably romantic spot for a honeymoon, so if you choose Palé Hall for your own post-wedding getaway there’s plenty to do and see within easy reach. I set out to explore, heading to Portmerion, which is a must-visit in my opinion. Famous as the setting for 1960s TV drama The Prisoner as well as for its pottery, the folly village transports you to another world. The weather on the day I visited was absolutely glorious, showcasing the colourful buildings in their best light. It’s akin to taking a day trip to the Med! Just over an hour away you’ll find the iconic Mount Snowdon, which is well worth the journey. Whether you set yourselves the challenge to climb it or opt for a scenic trip on the mountain railway, reaching the summit will be a honeymoon moment for you to remember. Where everybody knows your name Editor Kelly Andrews heads to North Wales to experience stunning venue Palé Hall BOOK IT To find out more, visit www.palehall.co.uk or call 01678 530 285. HONEYMOONS 79
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