Luxury holidays in Cardigan Bay

Fringing hidden coves and sweeping river estuaries, Blue Flag-clean sand connects coastal walkways, and the clifftops offer a spectacular panorama of views over the ever-present sea. The Georgian fishing villages and towns – such as Aberaeron – that dot this charm-packed coastline have been smartened up, but behind their brightly-painted, pretty façades, they remain low-key, laid-back, and as warm-hearted and welcoming as ever. The sprucing up of these time-locked coastal havens has also brought trend-tapping boutique hotels, delis and craft shops, sprinkling just the right amount of style dust over the scenic surrounds. Certainly not the place to start a revolution – but probably the perfect place to escape one…

Areas in Cardigan Bay

Getting there

  • Planes

    Cardiff (www.cwlfly.com) is the nearest international airport. Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) and BMI Baby (www.bmibaby.com) both fly from regional UK hubs.
  • Trains

    If not super-reliable, train travel in Mid Wales is scenic. Your best bet is either travelling to Carmarthen via Swansea with First Great Western from Paddington; or to Aberystwyth via Birmingham (www.firstgreatwestern.co.uk). Arriva Trains Wales (www.arrivatrainswales.co.uk) operates regional services via Shrewsbury.
  • Automobiles

    A car is a must for long-range exploration. From the North take the M6, then the M54 to Mid Wales. Leaving from London take the M1, then the M6 to the M54. Use the Smith route planner to find your way.
  • Taxis

    For getting around locally, try minicab firm Dyfi Cabs on on +44 (0)7831 551538 or +44 (0)7773 385335. Otherwise, ask your hotel to book one for you.