About Aberdovey

Aberdovey, or in Welsh, Aberdyfi, is a rather peaceful and idyllic river port on the River Dyfi estuary. It started life as a shipbuilding port, but is now more of a seaside resort, with an excellent sandy beach. The town centre has expanded along both the riverfront and seafront, and stretches back from the original harbour reaching for the green, sheep-dotted hills that surround the town. Aberdovey is on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, meaning the best places to stay in Aberdovey are an easy base for exploring the national park, Cardigan Bay, and the prettiest parts of Gwynedd. Our pick of the properties here include two waterfront properties that will not disappoint.

The town has a high percentage of Welsh speakers, and there’s plenty of pride in the local history, stories and cultural traditions. You can also enjoy Aberdovey’s spectacular scenery on foot or two wheels. This was the location of the very first Outward Bound centre, built in 1941 to run adventurous excursions on the water and on land. Today this is a fine spot for sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, fishing, and crabbing — and that’s just for your morning’s entertainment. Aberdovey also has an 18-hole golf links. Just don't forget that this little town is increasingly popular during the peak summer months. To guarantee your room in the best places to stay in Aberdovey, book well ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Aberdovey

For sea views

  • The Penhelig Arms is a charming inn in a fabulous spot, right across the road from the River Dyfi estuary. The restaurant has especially good sea views, and is known for its locally sourced produce turned into delicious menus. There are 15 rooms and suites, some in the hotel building, some in an annexe. 

For families

  • The Trefeddian Hotel has been a family-run operation for over 100 years and it occupies a fantastic spot just outside town overlooking an expanse of sandy beach. Interiors are classic in style; the best rooms come with sea views and a balcony.  It's the perfect pick for a traditional family seaside break with early supper for the kids, and plenty of rooms that can accommodate two adults and up to four children. Plus there's an indoor swimming pool — ideal for keeping everyone entertained when the weather's not at its best!

Prefer a private apartment or cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • If you’re travelling via London, it's about five hours on the train from London Euston. If you’re travelling from even further afield, Cardiff Airport is connected to around 50 destinations by direct flights, but Aberdovey is quite close to Manchester Airport and Liverpool Airport too.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Spring is beautiful in Gwynedd. Summer is also appealing, what with the golden beaches looking almost as good as the Med when the sun shines. Autumn is great for walkers; winter might not be great outside, but there’s always a welcoming fire burning somewhere and plenty of colourful Christmassy events to keep you in good cheer.

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The best hotels in Aberdovey

Penhelig Arms

Aberdovey (Gwynedd)

A picturesque waterfront hotel in the heart of Aberdovey, Gwynedd. The rooms marry original features with modern conveniences and wonderful sea views. There is a quaint on site bar with a cosy fireplace, and a restaurant serving locally sourced Welsh produce. Utterly charming.

  • Active Holiday - Whether on land or at sea there are plenty of challenging activitites.
  • Great walks - The Torrent Walk, Precipice Walk, New Precipice Walk and Panorama Walk provide plenty of contrasting country to explore.
  • Sailing - Dovey Yacht Club offer a range of lessons for all levels.
  • Views - Lovely views over the water and boats.
from €121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Trefeddian Hotel

Aberdovey (Gwynedd)

A grand hotel perfectly positioned between the southern Snowdonian mountains and the Cambrian coastline, just outside the pretty seaside village of Aberdovey. There are bright and airy rooms, an indoor pool, and relaxed dining with breathtaking views over Cardigan Bay. The perfect coastal retreat.

  • Families - There are family rooms, a child-listening service, a playroom, outdoor play area, children's supper and all-day lounge menu
  • Beach Life - Just a 5-minute walk from the hotel, Aberdovey's award-winning beach offers 4 miles of magnificent, powder-soft sands
  • Total relaxation - Lounges to relax in, glorious views, an indoor pool, and a gentle pace of life make this the perfect spot to unwind
  • Local exploring - The perfect base from which to explore Mid and North Wales with its majestic mountains and valleys
from €205 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees