Ceredigion, historically Cardiganshire, is on the beautiful west coast of Wales, arcing around the golden sands of Cardigan Bay — which is so clear that it has no fewer than five Blue Flag Beaches, and is the only place in the UK with a permanent population of bottlenose dolphins. To the north is Snowdonia, to the east the Cambrian Mountains, and to the south along the coastline is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Ceredigion has plenty to offer both those who want to enjoy the pristine beaches and the stunning inland scenery. We’ve discovered some charming country house conversions, boutique-style seaside hotels and chic little B&Bs.
Hinterland fans will be spoilt for cholce; there are so many picturesque estuaries, sandy coves, lush river valleys, and peaceful villages and market towns to discover. Aberystwyth is the largest centre, and probably the place to head to, but we also rate the pretty harbour town of Aberaeron.
If you’re here to walk, consider the Ceredigion Coast Path which runs from Cardigan to Ynslas, a spectacular 100kms along the coast. When Dylan Thomas lived in New Quay and Talsarn he spent time in Aberaeron and Lampeter too, and there’s a Dylan Thomas Trail, ideal for poetry-loving walkers. Ceredigion is a great destination for exploring on two wheels too, and a couple of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Ceredigion have bike storage facilities, and offer the kind of breakfast you need before cycling all day.