Surfing the waves in Bridgend © Crown copyright (2013) Visit Wales

As Wales continues to bask in one of the warmest summers to have gripped the country in years, I like to focus on combating the heat. Here’s a look at some of the best ways to keep cool in Wales. (And to have fun while doing so of course!)

1. Surf with a Wales’ champ
If you’re going to spend your summer learning to surf with anyone, make sure its Wales’ two-time surf champion and South African pro Ingemar Cressey. Cressey offers lessons all along the south Wales coast, and is in charge of one of only two surf school in Wales accredited by the Academy of Surfing Instructors – the Australian-based world standard in surf education.

2. Take shelter in a converted boat
A far cry from your average summer getaway, Sonia is a restored 1950’s houseboat overlooking Cardigan Bay near Llangrannog. Surrounded by its own grassy paddock, this is far enough from the beaten track to offer a truly secluded stay. Kids will love peeping from the portholes as much as you’ll love being able to walk right down onto the beach via your own private track.

Sonia, the converted house boat.

3. Pick strawberries then take a dip
Definitely one for when things get so hot that even picking fruit feels like hard work. Aberbran Fawr campsite sits just outside Brecon and guests are invited to spend time plucking strawberries and blackcurrants from the nearby fields. They also happen to be within diving distance of the River Usk, where a quick dip could prove the perfect antidote to the summer sun.

4 . Tee off at Wales’ top golf course
As one of the slowest competitive sports around, golf is perhaps the ideal summer pastime. Bridgend‘s own Royal Porthcawl is considered to be one of the best courses in the world, and being right next to the beach means there’s plenty of sea breeze to keep you from overheating – even if you’re on course for a little longer than the average professional…

5. Stay 5-star with Preseli Venture
There’s no time for sunbathing when you’re surfing, coasteering and kayaking your way along Wales’ most famous stretch of coastline, Pembrokeshire coast. Book an adventure with Preseli Venture and you won’t have to worry about a thing – all your meals are included, as well as accommodation in a 5-star eco-lodge. Finish each day with a bonfire and a well-earned glass of red wine…okay, maybe a few glasses.

Taking the plunge with Preseli Venture.

6. Catch a water taxi
While the barrage that links Cardiff with the seaside town of Penarth may be ideal for a summer stroll, you might not want to brave it in the midday sun. (But if you do, don’t forget the sunscreen!) We suggest hopping on the regular Aquabus service that links Penarth with the cafés and bars of Mermaid Quay, as well as the castle grounds in Cardiff itself. Timetables and prices are available on the website.

7. Play hide and seek…in a gold mine
Need a fool-proof means of escaping the summer sun? Head underground! You could always brush up on your history at the same time by spending time down in the Dolaucothi gold mines, with guided tours taking you all the way back to the Roman and Victorian ages. I also recommend exploring the surrounding hillsides that overlook the stunning Cothi Valley.

The beautiful Whitesands beach in Pembrokeshire.

8. Keep cool at The Grove, Narberth
The Grove has so much more to offer than the hotel itself. The shortest of drives and you could be sunning yourself on Barafundle Bay, or enjoying Tenby‘s relaxed café culture. All before heading back to enjoy al fresco dining at its very finest courtesy of head chef Duncan Barham, The Grove’s sun-dappled terrace and a healthy dose of summer sun, of course.

The Grove, Narberth.

9. Kayak in the Beacons
Keen kayakers should look no further than Filly Farmhouse, a stone farmhouse just outside Hay-on-Wye that sleeps up to ten people. It also backs onto a lake, which makes kayaking and canoeing a great option in summer. Those with a bit more experience can also head down to the River Wye, which offers up a long stretch of tranquil, isolated waterways for your exploration.

10. Peace out in the Cambrian Mountains
Take a break from all the trappings of modern life with a trip to the beautiful Cambrian Mountains. Spend a few nights in Straw Bale Holiday Cottage in the spa town of Llandrindod Wells. With no gadgets or electricity, you’ll soon discover just how enjoyable life at a slower pace can be. Why not spend the days cooling yourself in the nearby stream before stargazing on the balcony.

However you decide to stay cool in the Wales heat of summer, you’ll have no shortage of options!