Wild West Wales
Happy getting lost with Ridgebacks
I don’t know about you, but since owning dogs, whilst out walking, I’ve let the path take me to places I’d never have stumbled upon pre dogs. I’ve discovered some unbelievably stunning and sometimes secret beaches; I’ve found some delightful places to stay, eat and drink, and all because I’ve followed the Wales coastal path with my two ridgebacks.
Considering there are over 800 miles of Welsh coastline, I’m never short of coastal gems to escape to, where I take quality time, sometimes days, to rest, refuel and let the ridgebacks roam about.
As I get so much pleasure in connecting people and places, I’d like to share some of these wonderful delights with you. Over time, I’ll include photos and videos, add a list of recommended place to visit and interview some cheery characters, who I’ve met along the way.
Today, I’ll start with my favourite region of Pembrokeshire. One day in the not too distant future I hope I’ll move there. Hopefully I’ll live in a quaint little coastal cottage, and own a bookshop with a cafe by the sea. Forever the daydreamer!
If you’re planning to visit Wales especially the places I write about, please don’t hesitate to contact me, so I can recommend even more exquisite places to stay. Wales is awash with some really cool and bespoke boutique abodes. You’ll not want to leave!
5 Best Places To Visit In Pembrokeshire
Cardigan - The ancient market town of Cardigan sits on the estuary of the River Teifi at the base of Cardigan bay. It is home to a thriving culture of arts and crafts, events and music festivals. Cardigan enjoys an abundance of wildlife, varied landscape, rugged coastline and close proximity to beautiful sandy beaches. It also breeds some rather remarkable entrepreneurs, including the very talented founders of Fforest - Sian & James. Tired? check out @albionaberteifi which a super hip and trendy hotel sitting on the banks of the river teifi. Hungry? book into @pizzatipi which is owned by the same cool crew from Fforest.
Porthgain - A place where you will be happiest doing not much at all. Sit by the harbour eating the best fish n chips for miles around from The Shed Wine Bar & Bistro; be spontaneous and join a game of cricket or rounders on the village green; enjoy a pint or two in the jolly friendly Sloop Inn. this is definitely the place to go if you’re looking for secluded beaches and a community with a very laid back attitude to life. the clifftop walk from Porthgain to Abereiddy takes about an hour and allow longer to to explore the exotic Blue Lagoon. Tired? Stay at @henffermdy a beautiful restored farmhouse which oozes style throughout. Hungry? Pop into St Davids or the arty village of Solva - there are so many delightful eateries. If you would like further recommendations on where to stay, eat and drink just let me know by leaving a comment below.
Aberporth - You’ll fall in love with the windswept scenery of this gorgeous bay. The vast golden beach is hugged by rocks and during high tide splits the bay into two smaller bays. The perfect playground for paddle boarding and dog walking. If you’re feeling hungry and visiting during the high season, you’d best visit The Boy Ashore. It is a funky beach shack bar and restaurant from the same founders at Pizzatipi in Cardigan. Championing fresh, quality food, The Boy Ashore offers a wonderful welcoming atmosphere complimented with a fine cocktail list for you to kick back with and watch the sun set.
Tresaith - Is a mini paradise hidden between the bigger West Wales hamlets. You have to visit if only to discover the thundering waterfall that lands right on the beach. It is mesmerising. Tired? You will be spoilt for choice on where to stay, there is @theshipinn_tresaith a gastro pub with rooms overlooking the beach; plus a family run boutique B&B and plenty of uber chic Airbnbs - all with panoramic coastal views. If you’re lucky and keep your eyes peeled you’ll catch sight of dolphins and seals. Recommendation: @houseonabeach has it all.
Llangrannog - The most perfect picturesque seaside village, equipped for all the family to enjoy a coastal walk and a picnic on the beach. It’s bustling with activity. A couple of gastro pubs, shops and cafes. Ideal haven to enjoy some water sport activities, or if you fancy a mooch there is a cute little art gallery stacked with gorgeous prints, welsh blankets, jewellery and homewares owned by the wonderful founders of @slatesea
The list goes on, I could recommend at least 20 more places to stay, eat and drink. I hope you’ve found this article of interest. If you know of someone who’d benefit from reading my substack, please share the love
Until the next time, take care and stay safe. xx
PAWS FOR THOUGHT: Always keep your dog in sight; use a lead if you don't have a reliable recall. Carry water for your dog – they can easily get dehydrated in Summer. Collapsible travel bowls are available and many cafes provide dog bowls. Keep your dog away from cliff edges – they are often loose and home to rabbits and grazing sheep.