14c Light Rain
Barmouth Viaduct at Sunset 
Llanberis from Penllyn 
Morfa Bychan beach near Porthmadog 
Sali Mali is in Pentre Bach, 1pm on Tuesdays as part of S4C's Planed Plant Bach slot.
What's the attraction?
Catrin and her cousin Jessica were celebrating their fourth birthday with a party at Pentre Bach - and the main guest was Sali herself.
What's on offer?
This is where S4C's Pentre Bach starring Sali Mali and her friends is filmed. We began at the reception centre, where the youngsters watched an episode of Pentre Bach, dressed up as the famous characters. Jessica and Catrin were thrilled - the start of their fairly tale journey into the imaginary world of Sali Mai. It was also a trip down memory lane for mums and dads.
Then we meandered round this little village, which used to be a farm, siop and a post office. Today, they are a cluster of colourful and amazing buildings and self-catering houses: The Football House, Siop Shoni Bric a Moni, Caffi, Siop Parri Popeth, Jemeima's Wash House and Gwesty Pili Pala and best of all, Sali Mali's House. The perfect place for a holiday with the children.
How did you get there?
Aberystwyth's the main town to head for. Turn at the sign for Blaenpennal (14 miles from Aberystwyth/ 4 miles from Tregaron). Follow the road for 3/4 of a mile and after the chapel, take the first left.
How long did you stay?
Having booked the village exclusively for Catrin and Jessica's birthday party, we had the freedom to enjoy the entire village and its facilities from 11am until 3pm. What a treat and completely stress-free for parents
Did you take a brolly?
Thankfully not needed. It was a fresh spring day with clear blue skies and bright sunshine showing off Pentre Bach at its best. However, there's activities undercover to entertain the children if need be.
What did you do there?
It was a joy to watch the children looking totally relaxed and happy, exploring and playing in this imaginary world of Pentre Bach. Even Colin and Emily were having fun. Tom and James preferred the go-karts, whilst Catrin and Jessica created their own stories in Sali Mali's orange house.
Their friend Erin was having fun in the play area with its magical undercover sea world. Yes, they really had thought of everything - simple but very effective. What caught my eye was the enormous musical instruments in the field, from wind chimes to kitchen utensils, encouraging the children to make as much noise as they wanted.
By 12.30pm it was time for the party banquet.
We were greeted by a wonderful fountain of colourful (but booze-free) red punch - the topic of conversation for days to come. Tom thought it was brilliant.
After sandwiches and savoury, there was time for a quick play in the park before returning to devour the sweet cakes and biscuits. Finally, the orange jelly and ice cream to finish. Wow, what a party and no clearing up.
The highlight was meeting Sali Mali who appeared just in time to cut the cake. Catrin, Jessica and Erin just could not contain their excitement.
Ken's mum, after a detailed tour, was quite ready to have a sit down and a coffee, available on request all day. In all, a totally stress-free children's party.
How much did it cost you?
Normally, adult entrance fee is £4.95 and children £4.50. It cost £60 to hire Caffi Sali Mali, plus £6 per head for Party Food. Included in the price was an episode of Pentre Bach, a conducted tour of the TV village, a very relaxing children's party and, of course, the special visitor to liven up the activities.
Can people with disabilities get around?
Pentre Bach accommodates everyone with special needs, with ramps and toilet facilities available. Also, with spacious car parking facilities making it the perfect venue for children with special needs and their carers.
What was the best bit?
Seeing the children looking so happy and obviously enjoying the experience of walking around this unique filming location, captivating their imagination. The story of Sali Mali really came to life at this wonderful imaginary world. Who needs to go to Disney Land Paris?
Opening times?
Daily 11am -4pm until April 6, plus Whitsun half-term May 24-June 1; summer July 19- August 31 and autumn half-term Ocotber 25-Nov 2. In addition, it's open all year for accommodation and groups.
More details: Pentre Bach, Blaenpennal, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 4TW. Tel 01974 251676 or email pentrebach@btconnect.com S4c.co.uk/pentrebach
Star Rating: *****
