Our First Motorhome Adventure: Wales, Off-Grid Living, and Exploring Hidden Gems

Hey there! We’re Lauren, Adam, and our two four-legged companions, Mac (the Collie) and Denver (the German Shepherd). We’ve just hit the road in our new motorhome, and we’re so excited to share our journey with you. Next week, we’re setting off on our adventure in it — exploring the stunning landscapes of Wales. From food and off-grid living to all the girl things, looking after our motorhome, and dreams of starting a family, we’ll be covering it all. And let’s not forget the hidden gems we discover along the way, both in the UK and beyond.

Why We Chose to Hit the Road: Embracing Our 20s, Happiness, and Adventure

• For us, this isn’t just about the motorhome; it’s about living fully in our 20s, embracing freedom, and chasing happiness. We’re at that exciting point in life where the world feels wide open — and we want to make the most of it.
• We both have a love for adventure and a deep curiosity about the world, but what we also crave is balance. It’s easy to get caught up in the routine of work, bills, and the pressures of “adulting.” We wanted to break free from that. And what better way to do it than by hitting the road with our dogs, Mac and Denver, and exploring the world on our own terms?
• For us, traveling isn’t just about ticking off bucket-list destinations. It’s about finding joy in the journey itself. We want to live with intention, savoring the simple things — the sound of the rain on the roof of our motorhome, discovering quiet spots in nature, sharing meals with each other, and truly being present in every moment. The best part is that we get to do it together, with our four-legged friends by our side.
• In our 20s, we want to experience everything — the beauty of the UK, the hidden gems of Europe, and even the spontaneous trips to places we never imagined we’d go. But, perhaps more than anything, we want to carve out time for happiness. The kind of happiness that comes from slow mornings, scenic views, and exploring new places at our own pace. It’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime and truly living a life that feels right for us.
• And yes, we’re thinking about the future too — planning to eventually start a family. But right now, this is our time. Our time to explore, to dream big, and to make our own path. We want to enjoy these years in our 20s to the fullest, before life gets even busier with new adventures and responsibilities.
• So, while we’re just getting started, this trip to Wales is more than just our first motorhome adventure. It’s the beginning of a new chapter where we get to live boldly, follow our passions, and take the time to breathe in every moment of this amazing journey.

The Motorhome – Our New Home on Wheels

When we first decided to hit the road in a motorhome, we knew it had to feel like a true home. After all, we’ll be living, cooking, and adventuring in it for weeks or even months at a time, so comfort and practicality were at the top of our list. Our motorhome isn’t just a vehicle for getting from point A to point B — it’s where we sleep, eat, work, and spend our down-time. It’s the heart of our travels, our little sanctuary wherever we park up.

The Motorhome Layout: Compact But Comfortable

Our motorhome is perfectly designed to give us everything we need, without feeling cramped. The layout is efficient, with a combination of clever storage solutions and multifunctional spaces. Here’s a quick rundown of how we’ve set it up to work for us:

• Living Area: The front of the motorhome has a cozy dinette area with a small table and comfy seating — perfect for enjoying meals or relaxing after a day of exploring. We’ve got large windows all around, which makes it feel bright and airy, and it’s the best spot for watching sunsets or enjoying the view.
• Sleeping Quarters: The motorhome has a fixed bed which is surprisingly comfortable for sleeping. At night, it transforms into a cozy sleeping nook. Our dogs, Mac and Denver, have their own little beds near us, and it’s so nice to all be together, no matter where we are.
• Kitchen: Our little kitchen is compact but has everything we need to make meals on the go. There’s a two-burner gas stove, a fridge and a little sink. We’ve got plenty of cupboard space for dry food, and a bit of counter space for prep work. Though it’s not a big kitchen, it’s easy to cook simple, hearty meals, and we’ve gotten creative with our cooking (hello, one-pan meals!).
• Bathroom & Shower: One of the features that really sold us on this motorhome is the small, but functional, bathroom. It’s got a portable toilet (ideal for those times we’re parked in more remote spots), and there’s a small shower area with a curtain that makes it feel like home. It’s not huge, but it works for us, and it’s such a luxury to have everything we need right there.
• Storage Solutions: With everything we need packed into such a small space, storage is key. We’ve been really intentional about what we bring, and we’ve got clever storage under the seating, above the kitchen, and in various compartments that we use for clothing, outdoor gear, and travel essentials. It’s a tight fit sometimes, but it forces us to keep things minimal, which is actually pretty refreshing.

Road-Trip Eats: A Foodie’s Guide to the Journey

One of the things we’ve really loved about traveling in our motorhome is how easy it is to make meals on the go. While we’re exploring some of the most beautiful landscapes in Wales (and beyond), we’re also making sure to enjoy the flavors of the places we visit. Whether we’re cooking up something simple in the motorhome or stopping at a local market for fresh ingredients, food is always part of the adventure.

Food on the Road: What’s Our Go-To Meal?

Space in the motorhome is limited, so when it comes to cooking, we have to be practical. We’ve learned to keep it simple, using fresh, local ingredients when we can, and focusing on meals that are quick, easy, and filling. Here are a few of our go-to road-trip meals that work really well in our cozy kitchen:

• One-Pan Dishes: These are a lifesaver! We love making a one-pan stir-fry with rice, or a simple pasta with vegetables and protein (like sausage or canned beans). Everything goes in the pan together, and it’s quick to prepare and clean up. We’ve also made tasty one-pan breakfasts with scrambled eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, and spinach.
• Chili or Stews: These hearty dishes are perfect for a road-trip dinner, and they’re super easy to make in advance and reheat. We can simmer everything in a single pot, and it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables or meat. Plus, chili or stew is one of those meals that just gets better the next day.
• Sandwiches & Wraps: For quick lunches on the go, we often rely on sandwiches and wraps. We fill them with whatever we’ve got — cheese, ham, hummus, roasted veggies, or avocado. These are great for picnics, especially when we’re parked up in a beautiful spot and want to enjoy the view while we eat.
• Smoothie Bowls & Overnight Oats: When we’re feeling like something light and fresh for breakfast, smoothie bowls are our go-to. We stock up on frozen fruit and almond milk, and in the morning, we throw everything into a blender. If we’re in a rush, overnight oats are a great option — just mix oats, chia seeds, and milk (or yogurt) the night before, and in the morning, we’ve got a filling and nutritious breakfast ready to go.

Best Stops for Local Food in Wales

Wales is a food lover’s paradise, and we’re making sure to savor every local dish we can get our hands on. From hearty stews to freshly caught seafood, Wales has a rich culinary tradition, and we’re excited to dive in!

Here are some of the tasty Welsh dishes we’re planning to try:

• Welsh Rarebit: This is a classic! It’s like a decadent cheese toast, but better. The cheese is melted with mustard, ale, and spices, then poured over toasted bread. It’s perfect for a snack or light meal, and we’re looking forward to trying it in local pubs across Wales.
• Cawl: A traditional Welsh soup/stew made with lamb, root vegetables, and leeks — it’s warm, comforting, and perfect for a chilly Welsh day. We’ll definitely be stopping at local eateries to try this heartwarming dish.
• Laverbread: Made from seaweed, laverbread is a Welsh delicacy that’s often served with bacon and cockles for breakfast. We’re curious to try this unique treat, especially if we’re near the coast where it’s traditionally made.
• Welsh Cakes: These little sweet treats are like a cross between scones and pancakes. They’re spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, and usually served warm with a dusting of sugar. We’ll be picking up some from local markets or bakeries to enjoy with a hot cup of tea.
• Local Cheese and Cider: Wales is famous for its cheeses, including Caerphilly, which is a crumbly and creamy cheese with a distinctive flavor. And, of course, no trip to Wales would be complete without trying some locally brewed cider, especially in the orchards of Pembrokeshire or Brecon Beacons.

We’re also excited to explore food markets in cities like Cardiff, where we’ll find fresh produce, local meats, and artisan goods. We love shopping for ingredients at markets because it gives us a chance to meet local producers and discover hidden gems that aren’t found in your typical grocery store.

Feeding the Furry Crew: Keeping Mac and Denver Happy on the Road

Of course, we can’t forget about Mac and Denver — they’re our travel buddies and deserve to be well-fed too! Keeping them healthy and happy on the road is important, so we’ve developed a little routine for their meals and snacks while we travel.

• Dog-Friendly Meals: When we’re in the motorhome, we stick to a mix of dry kibble and wet food, depending on what they like best. We make sure to keep their food in sealed containers to stay fresh, and we always bring extra just in case we’re stuck in a remote spot without a pet store nearby. If we’re cooking something simple like chicken and rice for ourselves, we’ll often make a little extra to share with Mac and Denver — they love a little home-cooked treat!
• Healthy Treats: On longer drives or when we’re parked up, we keep a stash of dog-friendly snacks on hand. We’ve found some great local dog treats at markets, and we love giving them something special after a long walk or hike. It’s a great way to spoil our pups and make them feel like part of the adventure.
• Pet-Friendly Spots in Wales: Wales is pretty dog-friendly, and there are lots of places we can take the dogs with us while we explore. Many beaches and outdoor areas welcome dogs, so we’re looking forward to discovering some pet-friendly spots where we can let Mac and Denver run around, especially along the stunning coastline of Pembrokeshire. We’ll also be checking out local cafes that offer pet-friendly seating, so we can grab a coffee or snack while the dogs hang out by our side.

Hidden Gems in Wales & Beyond

One of the greatest joys of traveling in a motorhome is the ability to take your time. With the flexibility to go wherever the road takes us, we’ve been able to uncover some hidden gems that most tourists miss. There’s something incredibly special about finding those quiet beaches, secluded mountain trails, and charming little villages that don’t appear on the glossy brochures or popular travel websites. In this post, we’ll share some of the hidden spots we’re most excited to visit in Wales — and maybe beyond, as we head off to other parts of Europe!

Exploring Wales: Hidden Gems We’re Excited to Visit

Wales is a country full of stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture. While some areas like Cardiff or Snowdonia National Park are well-known, there are plenty of secret spots that are perfect for those who love the idea of escaping the crowds. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Aberdaron & The North Coast of Pembrokeshire: Tucked away at the tip of the Pembrokeshire Peninsula, Aberdaron is one of those places that feels a bit like a secret. It’s a small, peaceful village with a beautiful beach and a dramatic coastline, perfect for quiet walks. We’re excited to park up nearby and take in the unspoiled beauty of this area, far from the tourist bustle. Aberdaron is also a great jumping-off point to explore the nearby islands, like Bardsey Island, known for its birdlife and peaceful, almost mystical atmosphere.
• The Brecon Beacons: This stunning mountain range is full of hidden valleys, waterfalls, and quiet trails that are often overlooked by those heading to the more popular parts of Wales. We can’t wait to explore the secluded waterfalls, like Henrhyd Falls, which was used as a filming location for The Dark Knight Rises. The Brecon Beacons is a fantastic spot to get away from it all, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy some peaceful moments surrounded by nature.
• Gower Peninsula – Hidden Beaches: While the Gower Peninsula is famous for its beaches, like Rhossili Bay, there are many smaller, more secluded coves that are perfect for a quiet escape. We’re planning to take our time exploring the rugged coastline, searching for little-known spots like Pwll Du Bay or Three Cliffs Bay, where we can relax with just the sound of the waves and the birds as our company. These hidden beaches are the perfect spot for a picnic, a swim, or a peaceful walk along the shore.
• The Secret Garden of Plas Newydd: Located on Anglesey, Plas Newydd is a stately home with spectacular gardens that are less visited than the more famous National Trust properties. The gardens offer stunning views over the Menai Strait and are full of hidden corners, perfect for a relaxing stroll. It’s a great place to unwind and take in the beauty of the Welsh landscape without the crowds.
• Cwm Idwal – Snowdonia National Park: While Snowdonia itself is famous for its towering peaks like Mount Snowdon, we’re excited to explore the lesser-known Cwm Idwal valley. This stunning spot is a bit of a hidden gem within the park, offering dramatic landscapes and peaceful walks around a beautiful mountain lake. It’s a quieter alternative to the more popular trails, and we can’t wait to park up nearby and enjoy the tranquility.

The Joy of Slow Travel: Taking Your Time to Explore

One of the best things about having a motorhome is the ability to slow down and travel at your own pace. Unlike traditional travel, where you’re often rushing from one place to the next, slow travel gives us the freedom to explore hidden corners of the world that might otherwise be overlooked.

In a motorhome, we don’t need to rush through a destination — we can take our time, soak in the surroundings, and really get a feel for a place. Whether it’s stopping for a quiet lunch by a river or spending an extra day exploring a charming village, the beauty of slow travel is that there’s no pressure to follow a strict itinerary. We can wake up in the morning and decide where we want to go, based on the weather, the vibe, or simply how we’re feeling. It’s about being in the moment and following our instincts.

For us, this means:

• Spontaneous Stops: The beauty of having a motorhome is that we can stop whenever we see something that catches our eye. A hidden beach? A quiet forest trail? A charming little town we hadn’t planned to visit? We can pull over, take a walk, or explore — without worrying about hotel reservations or time constraints. It’s all about embracing the freedom that comes with not having a set schedule.
• Extended Stays: If we find a place that we really love, we can stay a little longer. It might be a small village or a quiet park where we feel at home. We love the idea of spending an extra day or two in one place, getting to know it on a deeper level and experiencing it like the locals do.
• Being Present: Slow travel allows us to connect more deeply with our surroundings. Instead of rushing to tick off tourist attractions, we can enjoy the beauty of nature, appreciate the local culture, and simply take in the sights and sounds of each destination. Whether it’s watching the sunset, hiking to a secret viewpoint, or chatting with locals at a small café, slow travel makes us more present in each moment.

Our Next Stop: Beyond the UK

As much as we’re loving our adventure through Wales, we’re also already dreaming about what comes next. The freedom of traveling in our motorhome has opened up so many possibilities, and after we’ve explored the beauty of Wales, we have our sights set on even more exciting destinations, both within the UK and beyond. Whether it’s the charm of the French countryside, the sun-drenched coasts of Italy, or the rugged beauty of Scandinavia, we’re ready to keep going — at our own pace, and on our own terms.

Looking to the Future: Beyond Wales

We’ve barely scratched the surface of what the UK and Europe have to offer. There are so many incredible places we want to visit and explore — some well-known, and others that are a little off the beaten path. Here’s a taste of the road trips we have in mind for the future:

• Exploring England’s Hidden Corners: We’ve spent plenty of time in Wales so far, but England has just as many hidden gems waiting for us to discover. We’re looking forward to road-tripping through the Cotswolds, with its picturesque villages and rolling hills. We also can’t wait to check out Lake District, known for its stunning lakes, craggy mountains, and quiet walking trails. There are so many small towns, nature reserves, and coastal villages in England that we can’t wait to uncover, especially away from the typical tourist spots.
• France: A Road Trip Through Vineyards & Lavender Fields: France is one of our top destinations for future road trips. We’re eyeing Provence, with its lavender fields, sunflower farms, and winding roads through charming villages. We also want to head towards the Loire Valley to explore its beautiful castles, vineyards, and quiet countryside. There’s something magical about slow traveling through France, with all the great food, wine, and history.
• Italy: Coastal Beauty & Countryside Charm: Italy is another dream destination. We’re excited to explore both the Amalfi Coast, with its colorful towns perched on cliffs, and the rolling hills of Tuscany, where we can slow down and enjoy the serene countryside. The thought of driving our motorhome through the Tuscan vineyards and stopping in medieval villages is something we’re really looking forward to. Italy has so much to offer — from its food to its culture, art, and history — and we plan to take our time exploring every corner.
• Scandinavia: The Road Less Traveled: Our wanderlust is also pushing us towards the north. Scandinavia has always been on our radar, and we’re looking forward to driving through Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The fjords of Norway are calling our names, and we can’t wait to take in the stunning natural beauty of this region — all while stopping in small, quiet towns along the way. We’ve heard that Sweden’s Lapland is magical in the winter, with its snowy landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights — definitely a future dream trip.
• The Wilds of Scotland: Before we head to the continent, we’ll be exploring more of Scotland. We’ve heard that the Scottish Highlands are incredibly remote, and we’re excited to take in the dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and rugged coastlines. A road trip through the Highlands, followed by a stay in a secluded loch-side campsite, is something we’re really excited to do. And of course, we can’t wait to try all the local whiskey (maybe just a little taste).

Conclusion: We’re just getting started, and we can’t wait to see where this motorhome journey takes us. If you have any tips for first-time motorhome travelers, or if you’ve visited some secret Welsh gems that we should check out, let us know in the comments below! Until next time, happy travels from Lauren, Adam, Mac, and Denver!