The Area

Explore the fabulous coastline of West Wales...

Traethgwyn Beach, New Quay

The Area

Local towns and villages offer a selection of shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants. A true taste of Wales can be found locally with most restaurants offering tasty local produce. Local farm shops sell vegetables, even local honey and eggs are available nearby.

This fabulous coastline is the first to be protected as a special area of conservation or Heritage Coastline. New Quay in particular has regular sightings of the bay's resident bottlenose dolphins, which are regularly spotted off the Quay. Regular boat launches take you out into the bay. Dolphins like to follow the boats and this incredible sight is unique to New Quay.

Walking and Exploring

The coastal path snakes its way along dramatic cliff tops. National Trust beaches at Mwnt and Penbryn are easy to visit by car – both are spectacular. The tiny church at Mwnt is a welcome retreat, and was once important enough to be in the gift of the Crown. Discover the ancient remnants of the church construction on a shelf just above the church organ. Retreat back outside through the tiny braced door and hear guillemots, razorbills, fulmar and cormorants echoing around the cove. Climb higher than the church and look down over the rock ledges – bizarre geological patterns of the upward pressure and formation of the 400 million year old coastline will have you reaching for the camera.

There are plenty of walks to suit all abilities, from a leisurely stroll to the local shop to heading off along rugged cliff tops or along deserted country lanes. Cycling is a delight and well-signposted routes start outside the Park’s entrance. Take the bus and you will be amazed that every half hour or so you can connect with your chosen destinations. Aberystwyth and beyond is easily accessible either on the scenic railway to Shrewsbury or on the narrow gauge railway, both leaving from the same platform at the railway station.

Local Activities

Away from the bustle of the towns and villages, there are golf courses, driving ranges and tennis and football clubs. New Quay Bowls Club is popular and there is a wide variety of clubs and societies ranging from art, painting, photography and computers to dancing classes – ballroom, latin and even line dancing. On a Friday, the local market is a favourite destination. Sample the finest preserves or buy a plant cutting – the market is growing every year and is a good place for meeting and chatting over a cup of coffee.

The library in the village is well stocked and a little further afield in Aberaeron, you can go online and surf the web at the same time as exchanging your library book.

Ireland is also in surprisingly close proximity – our nearest port is Fishguard and is only 40 minutes away, where you can pick up regular ferry crossings to Rosslare. Take the fast ferry and you can be in Ireland in less than 2 hours – have breakfast in New Quay and lunch in Ireland! Take the car or go as a foot passenger – a day trip is even possible for the adventurous. A wonderful holiday or break is on your doorstep!

Wildlife

Ceredigion has some impressive wildlife from dolphins and seals in Cardigan Bay to red kites soaring above the mountains.

Harbour

The sea is inviting from June until September. The New Quay regatta turns the harbour into a rainbow of sails racing out daily. Relax and look out from your home at the colourful yachts in the bay. The New Quay festival takes place during August and features bands and live music at every turn.

We were very impressed with Schooner Park. There are so many nice plots to choose from that we can't decide!

Mr & Mrs Cole