Best Beaches West Wales Within Easy Reach of the Cottages

Our Favourite Beaches to Visit in West Wales

We are really spoilt when it comes to beaches to visit in West Wales. Whether you prefer a secluded sandy bay or one you can walk along with views for miles, there is one to suit you. Head west to Cardigan Bay or south to Carmarthen Bay and Pembrokeshire and you will find quiet coves, quaint seaside towns and wildlife in abundance.

Penbryn

Penbryn best beaches West Wales

Penbryn is a mile long stretch of golden sand with caves to explore at one end at low tide. It is around 1/4 of a mile down the road from the car park or take the beautiful woodland walk from behind the Plwmp Tart cafe. This is about 1/2 a mile and steep in places, but is totally enchanting! The Wales Coast Path leads from the beach in both directions with gorgeous views across the bay. An ideal spot for stargazing – Penbryn Beach is a designated Dark Skies Discovery site.

The drive to Penbryn is about 40 minutes from the cottages. See more here: Walking at Penbryn

Llangrannog

Llangrannog Beach - best beaches West Wales

A popular beach with surfers and great for people-watching. There are also excellent cafes and pubs beside the beach. The views from the coast path here are some of the best in Wales. At low tide you can also access Cilborth beach to the right. Grab a pizza from Tafell a Tan and eat it on the beach.

Find out more: Visiting Llangrannog

Cilborth

Cilborth Beach

A beautiful more secluded beach. Accessible at low tide direct from Llangrannog beach or by a set of steep steps from the coast path. The route is steep and unsuitable for people with limited mobility. This is one of our favourite beaches as it never seems to get too crowded and the high cliffs and rocks give it a lovely atmosphere. The cliffs are great for birdwatching too.

More Info: Cilborth Beach

Mwnt

Mwnt Beach is around 1 hour from the cottages and is situated between the towns of Cardigan and Aberporth, on the Cardigan Bay coastline. It is nestled within a designated conservation area, known for its rugged cliffs, sandy beach, and rich biodiversity. Watch out for dolphins in the sea and rare Choughs flying overhead. Mwnt is on the Wales Coast Path, and has breathtaking views along the walking trails. In Spring the Gorse is so beautiful and smells delicious. Overlooking the beach is the historic Mwnt Church, which dates back to the 14th century.

Find out more: Visiting Mwnt

Tresaith

Tresaith is a small beach with a lot to offer! It famously has an extraordinary waterfall to the right of the beach. The coastal path between Tresaith & Aberporth is a lovely walk (mostly easy). We love having lunch at the Ship Inn with views over Tresaith Beach. A perfect spot for Dolphin-Spotting.

The drive to Tresaith is about 40 minutes from the cottages. More about Tresaith.

Aberporth

Aberporth lies at the southern end of Cardigan Bay about six miles north of Cardigan and ten miles south of New Quay. It overlooks two sandy beaches both with European Blue Flag status. Dyffryn Beach is to the west of the headland and Dolwen Beach to the east. The beaches both have soft golden sand and shelve gently into the sea and there are rock pools to explore too.

The town is very pretty with some lovely cafes and pubs and the walk along the coastal path to Tresaith is one of our favourites.

Find out more: A visit to Aberporth

New Quay

New Quay is in Cardigan Bay, just 30 minutes drive from the cottages. It is a quaint and very pretty seaside town with two beaches – Harbour beach and Dolau. Just outside of the town are Traeth Gwyn (or Llanina beach) and Cei Bach – both much wilder and they tend to be quieter.

Take a walk along the harbour wall as it is a prime spot for seeing dolphins. Or take a boat trip for a better chance of seeing dolphins and seals. More on New Quay’s Beaches.

Cwmtydu

Cwmtydu is a small pebble beach in Cardigan Bay with direct access to a stunning part of the Coastal Path. You can park right behind the beach and climb the path to the right of the beach for amazing views. Walk along the cliffs to Castell Bach Bay and then to the very quiet beach of Cwm Silio. There is plenty of bird life around too – we often see kestrels, ravens and rare choughs. Cwmtydu and the surrounding coves are a popular place for seals to raise their pups so it is important during September & October not to disturb them.

Find out more: Visiting Cwmtydu

Saundersfoot

A little further than the beaches of Cardigan Bay, Saundersfoot is about an hour and 10 minutes away. It is a pretty Pembrokeshire town with a harbour and great pubs and cafes. We recommend lunch at Harbwr. The wide open beach is perfect for walking and if you fancy a longer stretch, try parking at Wiseman’s Bridge beach and follow the old tramway path along the sea front.

More Info: Saundersfoot Beach

Ynyslas

Ynyslas Beach and dunes are part of the Dyfi National Nature Reserve. You can park right on the beach and there are waymarked walks to follow and a visitor centre. The beach is on the Dyfi estuary and you can see pretty Aberdyfi across the water on the other side. An abundance of birds to spot and beautiful scenery. About an hour and 10 mins drive from the cottages.

Find out more: Visiting Ynyslas

Events in Mid Wales 2024

When you’re planning your holiday to Coedmor Cottages you may need some ideas for days out. Here is a handy list of events in Mid Wales 2024 including festivals, fairs and concerts to help you to make the most of your time in wonderful Wales. Events in West Wales are easily accessible from our cottages too. All these days out are doable as a day trip from our cottages and each listing is a clickable link so you can find out more about the event.

Events in Mid Wales 2025 - food and drink festivals

March

1st & 2nd March 2025 St David’s Day Food & Drink Festival
Pembrey Country Park

Date TBC March St David’s Day Food & Craft Weekend
National Botanic Garden of Wales (10:00 – 16:00)

28th-30th  March 2025 – The Laugharne Weekend
Laugharne

Events in Mid Wales 2025 - horse shows

April

12th & 13th April 2025 – Spring Steam Rally
Pembrey Country Park

19th April 2025 – Lampeter Stallion Show
Talsarn, SA48 8QB 

Date TBC April – Pride in Aberystwyth
Bandstand, Marine Terrace

26th April 2025– Barley Saturday – Horse Parade
Cardigan

Date TBC April – A Taste of Wales Spring Festival
National Botanic Garden of Wales (10:00 – 17:00)

26th & 27th April 2025- Wonderwool Wales
Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

Mach comedy Festival Events in Mid Wales 2025

May

2nd – 4th May 2025 – Machynlleth Comedy Festival
Various venues Machynlleth

14th May 2025 – International Dylan Thomas Day

17th & 18th May 2025 – Spring Festival
Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

Date TBC May – Ceredigion Garden, Craft & Food Festival
Alban Square, Aberaeron

Events in Mid Wales 2024 - royal welsh show

June

5th – 9th June 2025 – Westival
Manorbier, Pembrokeshire

Dates TBC  June – Pembrokeshire Street Food Festival
South Beach, Tenby

8th June – Aberystwyth & Ceredigion Show 
Gelli Angharad Fields, Aberystwyth 

15th June – Llandeilo Pride
Market Street, Llandeilo

28th-30th June – Wales Balloon Festival 
Carmarthen Showground

29th-30th June – Towy Valley Vintage Show (Vehicles)
Pontargothi Showground, Llandeilo

Saundersfest - events west wales 2024

July

6th & 7th July – Wales National Airshow
Swansea

8th July – Tivyside Agricultural Show
Glan-Llyn Fields Newcastle Emlyn

12th-14th July – Saundersfest
Saundersfoot

13th July – Llanelli Pride
Selwyn Samual Centre, Park Crescent

19th – 21st July – Brecon Choir Festival
Brecon

20th July – Aberaeron Sailing Regatta
Aberaeron Yacht Club

22nd-25th July – Royal Welsh Show 
Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

27th July – Lampeter Food Festival
University of Wales Trinity Saint David Campus

28th July – West Wales Shire Horse Annual Show
Alban Square, Aberaeron

Events in Mid Wales 2024 Royal Welsh show

August

2nd– 4th Aug – New Quay Music Festival 
New Quay FC Parc Arthur

3rd August – Brecon County Show
Brecon County Showground

3rd August – Cardigan County Show
PantyGrwndy, Cardigan

TBC Aug – Cilgerran Festive Week
Cilgerran

9th – 11th Aug – Tresaith Beach Party 
Tresaith Beach

9th – 11th Aug – Cardigan Bay Regatta
New Quay

Events West wales 2024 Aberaeron regatta

10th Aug – Aberaeron Beer & Cider Festival
Aberaeron Yacht Club (12:00 – late)

14th-16th August – Welsh National Sheepdog Trials
Pontrhydfendigaid, Tregaron

16th-18th August – Tresaith Beach Party 
Tresaith Beach

17th Aug – Cardigan River and Food Festival
Quay Street Cardigan (10:00 – 17:00)

17th August* – Llandeilo Show
Cawdor Fields, Ffairfach

24th Aug – Aberaeron Mackerel Fiesta
Aberaeron Yacht Club & The Harbourmaster

Events in Mid Wales 2024 bog snorkelling

25th Aug – World Bog Snorkling Championship
Waen Rhydd Bog Llanwrtyd Wells

25th August – Cruise Culture Car Show
Carmarthen Showground

23rd – 25th August Aberystwyth Street Food Festival 
Aberystwyth Marina

23rd – 26th August – Tresaith Regatta & Beach Party
Tresaith Beach

26th Aug – Aberaeron Carnival
Aberaeron Harbour (Parade starts at 13:45)

26th August – Tregaron Show
Tregaron

30th August – 1st September – Rali Ceredigion
Aberystwyth

Aberglasney events in 2024 West wales attractions

September

6th – 8th September – Craft Festival Wales
Cardigan Castle (10:00-17:00)

7th & 8th Sept. – Aberglasney Food & Music Fayre
Aberglasney, Llangathen

14th & 15th September – Llandovery Sheep Festival
Market Square, Llandovery

27th September – Apple Weekend at Llanerchaeron
Llanerchaeron, Ciliau Aeron

28th & 29th September – Narberth Food Festival
Town Moor, Narberth (10:00-18:00/10:00-16:00)

28th & 29th Sept. – Steam Rally & Country Fayre
Pembrey Country Park (11:00 – 16:00)

Wales Music Festival 2024

October

4th – 6th October – Aberystwyth Comedy Festival
Aberystwyth

11th – 14th October Brecon Baroque Festival
Brecon Cathedral/Theatr Brycheiniog

31st October – 2nd November – Other Voices Cardigan
Various venues, Cardigan

Mid Wales Christmas Fayre 2024

November & December

8th – 10th November – Tenby Blues Festival
Various Venues in Tenby

15th – 17th November – Llandeilo Festival of Senses
Llandeilo

25th & 26th November – Royal Welsh Winter Fair
Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells

29th November – 1st December – Aberglasney Winter Fair
Aberglasney, Llangathen (10:00-16:30)

30th November – Aberystwyth Lantern Parade
Aberystwyth

30th November – Christmas Fair at Cardigan Castle
Cardigan Castle (10:00am – 4:00pm)

30th November – 24th December – Polar Express Train Rides
Vale of Rheidol Railway Aberystwyth

6th December – Cardigan Giant Lantern Parade & Fireworks
Cardigan (19:00 – 20:00)

7th December – Lampeter Christmas Fayre
Lloyd Thomas Dining Hall, Lampeter University (10:30-15:00)

6th – 8th December – Llanercharon Christmas Fair
Llanerchaeron, Ciliau Aeron

8th December – Nanteos Mansion Christmas Market
Nr Rhydyfelin, Aberystwyth (11:30-4:30)

Check available dates for our cottages: Romantic Holiday Cottages for Couples

All Images © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2024) Cymru Wales.

Awesome Llyn Brianne & the Uk’s Tallest Dam

The drive from Coedmor Cottages to Llyn Brianne is a delight in itself. You want to take your time and savour the views as you enter the Cambrian Mountains. It is about 20 miles / 45 minutes from Coedmor Cottages.

Llyn Brianne views

There are a few places to stop and admire the views. This viewpoint is just off the Carreg Clochdy car park & picnic spot – the What3words address is ///hogs.raven.clinic
Not technically a Natural Wonder, the lake is actually a reservoir created in the late 1960’s/ early 70’s. The scenery is reminiscent of Canada or Scandinavia – just beautiful. 

Llyn Brianne Views
Llyn Brianne Roads

Fannog Farm – Fferm y Fannog

There is another small car park and picnic area at Fannog (what3words: ///self.crinkled.angel . In 2022 the water level was so low that we got to see Fferm y Fannog (Fannog Farm) which appears very rarely. This was an abandoned farm that was covered by the water when the reservoir was created. See a little Reel of Fferm y Fannog from our Instagram

Fannog Farm revealed, Fferm y Fannog, Llyn Brianne
Fannog Farm uncovered, Fferm y Fannog, Llyn Brianne

Llyn Brianne Dam

Llyn Brianne - Cambrian Mountains

The dam at Llyn Brianne is the UK’s tallest at 91m (300 ft). You can walk across the top of the dam and see martins swooping below.There is a good track to walk around part of the lake from here. There is a big car park and toilets (which are sometimes open) – what3words: ///cuddled.villas.tinkle
The woodland here is famous for being one of the last places you can see Red Squirrels. You will also likely see Red Kites and Buzzards overhead.

Llyn Brianne - Cambrian Mountains Red Squirrels.
Llyn Brianne Dam - Cambrian Mountains

If you are keen on stargazing, the car park at Llyn Brianne is also a Dark Sky Discovery Site – part of the Cambrian Mountains Astro Trail.

Llyn Brianne - Cambrian Mountains

Heading Home from Llyn Brianne

The drive around the lake is a great way to take in the scenery and for an alternative route back to the cottages the road between Llyn Brianne and Tregaron is worth a detour for spectacular Cambrian Mountain views.

If you drive back towards Llandovery, you will come across the Towy Bridge Inn – right next to the bridge on the River Towy (where else would it be!) Pop in for a drink or some food (do check opening times beforehand as they can be limited to weekends). This route also takes you past RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas and through Rhandirmwyn valley which is just stunning.

Cycling

If you are a keen cyclist, then the Big Wilderness Adventure takes in Llyn Brianne along the route. It is a 65 mile circular route that you can get onto just 5 minutes from our cottages. You can make it shorter by not going all the way to Llandovery!

National Trust Attractions That Are Within Easy Reach

Picton House Dinefwr National Trust attractions

National Trust Attractions Within Easy Reach

With so many different National Trust attractions within easy reach of our cottages, you will never be short of things to do. From Gold Mines and castles to beautiful beaches and mountain valleys, none of these places os more than an hours drive away. We’ve listed them in order of proximity to us so you can easily choose how far you want to spend travelling.

Dolaucothi Gold Mines

Dolaucothi Goldmine - National Trust

Just 18 minutes drive away, the Dolaucothi Gold Mines are ancient Roman surface and underground mines located in the valley of the River Cothi, near Pumsaint, Carmarthenshire. These mines are believed to be the only known Roman gold mines in Britain, and they have a history that dates back over 2,000 years. The Romans are thought to have extracted gold from this site as early as the first century AD. There are also lovely walks to do on the surrounding estate which is accessible for free.

Check opening Times & Prices: Dolaucothi Visitor Information

Llanerchaeron

Llanerchaeron - National Trust

Just 20 minutes away from our cottages is the lovely National Trust Llanerchaeron. 
It is home to an elegant Georgian villa, designed by architect John Nash in 1790, complete with a walled garden, farmyard lake and wild parkland. It has remained unaltered for over 200 years. The walled garden was built in the late 18th century and is still producing fruit and vegetables. The fruit trees are amazing shapes! The parkland has beautiful woodland walks. We love to follow the old railway line track to Aberaeron (2 and a half miles) for a spot of lunch. It is a lovely pretty walk through the woods and open fields and along the river.

Opening times & prices: Visiting Llanerchaeron

Dinefwr Park and Castle

Dinefwr National Trust attractions Mid West Wales

Dinefwr is about 40 minutes drive from the cottages. It is known for its grand mansion, extensive parkland, and rich history dating back many centuries. The estate encompasses Dinefwr Castle, Newton House, and a large area of parkland that has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. The surrounding countryside offers outstanding views. Go in May for the bluebells! See more pictures and details on our blog post: Best Things to do at Dinefwr

Opening times & prices: Visiting Dinefwr

Penbryn Beach

Penbryn Beach - National Trust Attractions

Penbryn is about a mile long stretch of golden sand with caves to explore at one end at low tide. It is around 1/4 of a mile down the road from the car park or take the beautiful woodland walk from behind the Plwmp Tart cafe. This is longer at 1/2 a mile and is steep in places but is totally enchanting! The Wales Coast Path leads from the beach in both directions and offers gorgeous views across the bay. The remote location and lack of light pollution make this an ideal spot for stargazing – Penbryn Beach is a designated Dark Skies Discovery site.

The drive to Penbryn is about 40 minutes from the cottages. See more here: Walking at Penbryn

Hafod Estate

Hafod Estate - National Trust Attractions

Hafod Estate is a historic landscape located in the Ystwyth Valley, near Cwmystwyth, Ceredigion. It is about 50 minutes drive from the cottages. The estate offers a network of walking trails that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscape, including woodlands, waterfalls, and viewpoints that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Ystwyth Valley and the surrounding countryside. It is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) due to its unique and diverse habitats.

Find out more: Hafod Estate Information

Abergwesyn Common

Abergwesyn Pass - National Trust in Mid Wales

This is one of our favourite spots in the Cambrian Mountains – Abergwesyn Pass. It is known as one of the most epic driving roads in Wales but it is worth stopping a while to take in the breathtaking scenery and the amazing tranquility. There are no crowds – this part of Wales is still relatively unknown. The river Irfon flows along the valley and we’ve seen Peregrine Falcons on the cliff face above. You must navigate the famous Devil’s Staircase to get to Abergwesyn – but that is part of the fun! 

Abergwesyn is around 60 minutes from the cottages, depending how often you stop to take in the amazing scenery. How to get there.

Mwnt

Mwnt beach - national Trust

Mwnt Beach is around 1 hour from the cottages and is situated between the towns of Cardigan and Aberporth, on the Cardigan Bay coastline. It is nestled within a designated conservation area, known for its rugged cliffs, sandy beach, and rich biodiversity. Watch out for dolphins in the sea and rare Choughs flying overhead. Mwnt is on the Wales Coast Path, and has breathtaking views along the walking trails. In Spring the Gorse is so beautiful and smells delicious. Overlooking the beach is the historic Mwnt Church, which dates back to the 14th century.

Find out more: Visiting Mwnt

Cilgerran Castle

Cilgerran Castle West Wales National Trust

This striking medieval 13th-century fortress is perched on a wooded hill overlooking the spectacular Teifi Gorge – about 1 hour from the cottages. It offers beautiful panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. You can also combine your visit to the castle with a trip to the Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve and Welsh Wildlife Centre.

Opening Times & Prices: Visiting Cilgerran Castle

Photos 1,2,4,6 & 9 – © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales. All other photographs © Coedmor Cottages.

Splendid Isolation in the Cambrian Mountains

Our romantic holiday cottages are located in the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains Area of Astounding Natural Beauty. You can even see the highest mountain – Pumlumon Fawr – in the distance from our meadows.

Cambrian Mountains - Pumlumon Fawr

The natural beauty of the plateaux, valleys and gorges of the Cambrian Mountains is equal to and often greater than some British national parks. Although distributed among three counties – Powys, Ceredigion & Carmarthenshire – the Cambrian Mountains are geographically one area, and form the main watershed of Wales. 

Cambrian Mountains

The rivers Severn, Wye, Elan, Irfon, Tywi, Cothi, Teifi, Ystwyth, Rheidol, and Twymyn all have their sources here. There are only a few roads across the mountains and they are acknowledged as some of the most scenic routes in Britain.

Cambrian Mountains - Hafod Estate
Hafod Estate
Cambrian Mountains - Abergwesyn Pass
Abergwesyn Pass

The walker is king in the Cambrian Mountains and you can find many routes online, such as the ones on Walking Britain. The landscape is vast, but not featureless. There are plenty of lakes and reservoirs that will make you feel like you could be in Canada! 

Cambrian Mountains - Llyn Clywedog
Llyn Clywedog

Interesting features like Strata Florida, The Teifi Pools, Vale of Rheidol Railway and Devil’s Bridge mean that you can easily spend a week or more exploring the area. 

Cambrian Mountains - Strata Florida
Strata Florida
Cambrian Mountains - Claerddu waterfall
Claerddu Waterfall, Teifi Pools
Cambrian Mountains - Vale of Rheidol Railway.
Vale of Rheidol Railway
Cambrian Mountains - Devil's Bridge
Devil’s Bridge

There are also amazing wildlife habitats like Cors Caron Nature Reserve which has great walking trails and is recognised internationally as an important wetland reserve.

Cambrian Mountains - Cors Caron
Cors Caron

And no visit to the Cambrian Mountain is complete without stopping off at the most remote phone box in the UK! You can even post letters from the post box there (we have seen the postie collecting mail from it). 😂 To find it, the What3words is ///campsites.guarding.brain

Cambrian Mountains - Phone Box

Of course, one of the outstanding features of the Cambrian Mountains is the Dark Skies. There are a number of Dark Sky Discovery Sites within easy reach of our cottages.

Cambrian Mountains Dark Skies stargazing

The Cambrian Mountains are such a special place and still relatively unknown. They are unspoilt and always quiet and peaceful – sometimes you will hardly see another soul all day! Don’t miss out on exploring this astoundingly beautiful area if you stay with us.

Best Things to do at Dinefwr National Trust

Visiting Dinefwr National Trust – a historic estate located in Carmarthenshire. Dinefwr is known for its grand mansion, extensive parkland, and rich history dating back many centuries. The estate encompasses Dinefwr Castle, Newton House, and a large area of parkland that has been designated as a National Nature Reserve. It is about a 40 minute scenic drive from Red Kite & Woodpecker Cottages. There is a large car park which is free to NT members or £5 for a full day for non-members. The easiest way to find it is with What3Words : Compelled : Trailer : Park

Newton House, Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire, National Trust

Newton House

A Georgian mansion that was built within the estate during the 17th century. It served as the home of the Rhys family, who were descendants of the Lord Rhys. The mansion is a prime example of Georgian architecture and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. It is open to the public and offers visitors a glimpse into the estate’s history. Entry to the house is currently £9 per adult for non NT members.

Dinefwr Signpost © Coedmor Cottages

There is so much to do at Dinefwr. You can explore the castle ruins, tour Newton House, enjoy walks through the parkland, and appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The estate offers a combination of history, architecture and nature.

Dinefwr Castle, Carmarthenshire, Days Out, National Trust

Dinefwr Castle

A medieval fortress that sits on top of a hill overlooking the River Tywi. It has a strategic location that allowed its occupants to control and monitor the surrounding landscape. The castle has a long history, with its origins dating back to the early 12th century. Over the years, it was the seat of the Lord Rhys, a powerful Welsh prince, and played a significant role in Welsh history during periods of conflict with the English. You can visit the castle for free and the views over the Tywi Valley are stunning.

Views from Dinefwr Castle of the Tywi Valley © Coedmor Cottages

Parkland and Nature Reserve

The parkland surrounding Dinefwr is known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The estate’s landscape includes woodlands, meadows, and the picturesque Dinefwr Deer Park. The park is home to a herd of fallow deer that roam freely, adding to the scenic charm of the area. The estate’s parkland has been designated as a National Nature Reserve, emphasising its ecological importance.

The walks around the estate are beautiful in all seasons. Late spring is especially lovely when the bluebells are out.

Bluebell time at Dinefwr Estate. © Coedmor Cottages
Dinefwr Map

Here’s a handy map showing all the different areas. There are plenty of picnic areas scattered through the estate and also a cafe for refreshments. You can definitely spend a whole day exploring! Find out more on the NT website: National Trust Dinefwr

Photos 1,2,4,6,7, 9 & 12 – © Hawlfraint y Goron / © Crown copyright (2023) Cymru Wales. All other photographs © Coedmor Cottages.