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What's the attraction?
It's like being in a jungle full of butterflies, birds and minibeasts. The colours are truly beautiful - owners Gwawr and Steve Bell, who took over in November 2005 are making it a great place for a family day out.
What's on offer?
A magical steamy environment with lush vegetation and waterfalls with live butterflies and birds all shapes and sizes fluttering freely all around.
The reptile house, full of iguanas, dragons, skunks, and geckos from all around the world was really intriguing - although I didn't find the tropical lair of tarantulas, scorpions, fire bellied toads and hissing cockroaches quite as attractive.
Catrin screamed her way out of there. Tom, however, went mad with the camera, loving the spiders as Colin studied the snakes. The pets corner with rabbits, guinea pigs and hamsters were more to Catrin's taste. The secure and safe extensive play area inside and out was the perfect way to let off steam after the trip from Tywyn.
How did you get there?
Located on Anglesey we followed the brown signs for the Butterfly Palace having come over the Britannia Bridge on the A55 from Caernarfon. From there it was very easy to follow the detailed map on the brochure.
Click to launch Google MapHow long did you stay?
We spent a full day there so we could really enjoy all that was on offer.
Did you take a brolly?
No need as Pili Palas is all undercover so it's ideal for a damp day. A word of warning - it really is like a tropical jungle and you definitely do NOT need coats and jumpers.
What did you do there?
An educational visit under Gwawr's illuminating supervision in the new Learning Zone was inspiring. She got the children interested in the cycle of butterflies. A great starting point with wonderful displays whetting our appetite before entering the greenhouses. Meeting Charlie the cockatoo was a highlight as well as Billy, the 14ft Burmese rock python.
How much did it cost you?
It's £5.50 for adults, £5 for OAPs and £4.50 for children. Family and season tickets available.
How about food and drink?
The Chipmunk Café, where you could watch the chipmunks, looked great serving drinks, salads, jacket potatoes and hot meals with kids meals from £3. But as it was so warm in the greenhouse we chose to eat outdoors. A picnic in the outside play area was the perfect way to enjoy a summer afternoon with plenty of cappuccinos and ice creams going around from the café.
Are there any shops?
Flutterbuys was well stocked with great emphasis on educational toys, books and games all about butterflies and all the other insects and snakes. Tom had great fun choosing various sizes of "spiders"; Catrin chose a really lovely pink watering can. Colin's choice was a football (naturally).
Is it ok/safe for kids?
Although very hot and steamy, the children were mesmerised by all they could see and hear but you had to keep an eye out so they don't injure the butterflies underfoot. Keeping Catrin's hands off them was a challenge. The extensive play areas inside and out were very safe and secure, with only one way in and out.
Can people with disabilities get around?
Not very easily because of the various levels. There is one route especially for wheelchairs but getting around with a buggy would be difficult.
Toilets?
Clean and easy to get to with separate baby changing facilities and feeding areas which both mums and dads can use. Also, good for the disabled.
What was the best bit?
As usual the children enjoyed the freedom of the outside park and, having spent two hours travelling, a lecture and the steamy garden, being outdoors was very welcome. Tom really enjoyed the nature trail - although only about 10 minutes it clearly sparked his imagination.
Opening times?
Until October 31, open 10am-5.30pm. Other times out of season. Check times at http://www.pilipalas.co.uk/ call 01248 712474 or email info@pilipalas.co.uk Or write to Pili Palas, Nature World, Penmynydd Road, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5RP
