WHERE TO STAY, EAT AND SHOP

■ Lanelay Hall: A former Victorian mansion situated at the base of a green-sloped mountain locally known as The Smaelwg, this grand and somewhat understated hotel conceals a contemporary and luxurious interior, with 17 individually-styled rooms. On our first evening, we enjoyed monkfish and ‘grown-up fish fingers’ in Lanelay’s spacious yet intimate dining room. Breakfast also turned out to be a great experience, and a particular highlight for Jessica – the fresh croissants certainly got her out of bed in the mornings. Family rooms from £119 per night, with breakfast. Visit lanelayhall.co.uk

■ Fullbrook’s Bistro: This familyrun bistro on Pontyclun’s vibrant high street is certainly a popular choice. Despite how busy it gets the service and quality is in no way compromised. The children’s menu is exceptionally varied. Main dishes from £10.95. fullbrooksbistro.com ■ La Luna: This AA Award-winning brasserie and cocktail lounge is one of south Wales’ best-loved independent restaurants, serving up a wide variety of dishes. The early dinner menu is ideal for families, and the atmosphere of the place makes it feel like a ‘posh meal out’ for a very reasonable price.

Early bird deals are available Tuesday-Thursday, 5-7pm and Friday, 5-6.30pm.

Visit la-lunarestaurant.com

■ The Potting Shed in County Timbers is jam-packed with garden gifts, vintage homeware and traditional toys. If it had been a little closer to Christmas (and if we had more room in the car!), we would easily have been able to purchase all of our gifts there and then. Visit countrytimbermerchants.co.uk

■ For more information on the region, visit The Valleys Tourism Partnership (thevalleys.co.uk).