Cardigan Courtyard

The delightful holiday resort of Aberporth boasts two fabulous Blue Flag beaches between the rocky headlands of Trecregyn and Fathgarreg and some charming seaside shops, cafes and pubs. On the southern edge of Cardigan Bay, visitors are attracted by its beaches and access to the stunning Wales Coastal Path. There are pleasure boats, sailing boats, kayaks and canoes for hire. You will also enjoy watching the local fishermen unloading crate after crate of giant spider crabs and other seafish. In the 17th and 18th centuries herring were plentiful in Cardigan Bay so Aberporth had at least twenty full time herring smacks. Now it is mainly crab and lobster fishing. You will find rock pools exposed at low tide and the cliff top walks along the Ceredigion coast boast extensive views as far as the Llyn Peninsula. There is a wonderful carving of a leaping dolphin overlooking the beach as bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen close to shore.

The Wales Coast Path, otherwise known as the Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion Coastal Path, is well established with clear signing and spectacular walking, especially from Cardigan to Borth. From Aberporth you may just want to walk along the cliffs to Tresaith or you may want to take the circular walk. There are seaside saunters along the fronts of coastal towns and villages, literary trails such as the Dylan Thomas Trail around New Quay, delightful strolls along country lanes bordered with ancient hedgerows full of wild flowers, invigorating walks across wild headlands enjoying stunning views of the rugged Cardigan Bay coastline, challenging mountain hikes in the remote uplands of the Cambrian Mountains or slow riverside rambles along the Teifi, Aeron Rheidol and Ystwyth valleys. Cardigan Bay has a number of useful little buses if you do not want to drive.

Keen cyclists enjoy the amazing cycle routes around Cardigan Bay. You can hire cycles from New Image Bikes, Cardigan if you do not want to take your own. Those that enjoy active holidays love canoeing along the River Teifi. At 79km, it is one of the longest rivers in Wales, starting at Teifi Pools high up near Tregaron. The section from Llechryd Bridge to the mouth of the river at Poppit Sands is tidal so it makes a wonderful half day canoe trip if there is enough water. You must check the tides though. Surfing is popular in Aberporth, Poppit Sands and Llangrannog. Visitors also enjoy paddleboarding, sailing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. There are some epic sea fishing boat trips available as well as salmon and sea trout in the lower reaches of the Teifi. The Pembrokeshire Anglers Association has fifteen miles of prime salmon, trout and sea trout fishing on the Western Cleddau River while the Nevern River is also popular. Sea bass can be found off Dale Beach, Whitesands and Poppit Sands.

As well as Aberporth beaches, there are some other wonders to visit including the once smugglers cove, Cwmtydu Beach, Llangrannog Beach which enjoys superb coastal scenery, the National Trust’s beautiful Penbryn Beach though there is a bit of a walk to the beach, Tresaith Beach which is named after the River Saith that cascades over the cliffs to the beach with a waterfall, Mwnt Beach, another National Trust jewel with gorgeous cliff top walks, Poppit Sands which is one of the popular beaches with plenty of sand dunes and Newport Sands Beach, another duned wonder.

The islands of Skomer, Skokholm and Ramsey are located a few miles off the Pembrokeshire coast. Managed by the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales, the islands are home to puffins, Manx shearwaters, Atlantic grey seals, razorbills, gannets and much more wildlife.

Read more about Ceredigion

Discover the charm of Ceredigion, the perfect destination for an authentic Welsh holiday. This picturesque region offers a blend of stunning countryside, vibrant cultural attractions, and a magnificent coastline along Cardigan Bay. Explore secluded coves like Mwnt and Aberporth, where clear waters and sandy beaches create a serene setting or head to the expansive beaches near Aberystwyth and Borth. Cardigan Bay is also known for its marine life, and you can often spot porpoises and dolphins from the shore or on boat trips from New Quay.

Ceredigion’s towns are a delightful mix of rural and coastal gems. Visit market towns in the Teifi Valley, such as Tregaron and Lampeter, which offer local arts and crafts, or wander through traditional fishing villages like Cardigan, New Quay, and Aberaeron. Aberystwyth, the cultural hub of Mid Wales, is home to the lively Aberystwyth Arts Centre and the renowned National Library of Wales, both offering exhibitions, events, and a taste of Welsh heritage.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the region’s natural attractions. Explore the rugged beauty of the Cambrian Mountains with its biking and walking trails, or visit RSPB Ynys-hir Nature Reserve for birdwatching. The historic Vale of Rheidol Railway offers a scenic journey from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge, where folklore and natural beauty meet at the stunning waterfalls.

Ceredigion’s culinary scene is another highlight. The Teifi Valley produces award-winning cheeses, and local menus feature traditional Welsh dishes and fresh seafood.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a taste of local culture, Ceredigion has something for everyone. Come and experience the warm, authentic charm of this beautiful corner of Wales.