EAGER young adventurers can enjoy a host of thrilling activities at Plas Menai, the National Outdoor Centre for Wales, near Caernarfon.

The Centre has reopened for under 18s, as the first stage of its wider reopening.

To kick off the new season, the Centre, which has been teaching outdoor professionals and enthusiastic beginners for more than 30 years, has announced its youth activity programme.

Activities on offer include stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, mountain biking, den build and bushcraft, and Challenge Yourself, in which youngsters can take part in a range of team games.

Picture: Alan Dop

Picture: Alan Dop

Alison Yates, Operations and Programme Manager at Plas Menai, said: “The past year has been really difficult for young people and they’ve been selfless in staying at home, away from school and friends, in order to protect people who are likely to be more vulnerable than themselves.

“So, we’re really excited to be giving young people this opportunity to try new activities and experience the great outdoors.

“Lockdown has been tough for mental health, and as someone who loves to be out on the water, I know first hand the benefits that these adventures will have on improving wellbeing.

“Outdoor activities also offer a great alternative for people wanting to do more outside the house but perhaps don’t enjoy the usual recreational sports or team sports. They really appeal to people like me who love adventures, exploring and doing something different. It’s a great way to get active, enjoy nature and be outside.

“We hope to be able to fully open Plas Menai at the end of April so everyone can benefit from the activities we can offer, but we fully understand this is dependent on the Welsh Government’s cautious approach in easing lockdown restrictions.

“We’re excited to welcome everyone, from the total beginner to the pro, back to Plas Menai with open arms very soon.”

For the youth activities, a responsible adult is required to remain on site while the child participates, who will be able to take advantage of grab-and-go catering which will serve hot and cold snacks and refreshments.

The centre will continue to follow all advice as set out by the Welsh government, which includes sticking to a two-metre social distancing rule at all times, accepting pre-bookings only, introducing a one-way system around the centre, and adding additional hand washing points and sanitisers.

To book, find out more and to keep up to date with activities at Plas Menai visit www.plasmenai.co.uk.