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Must-visit National Trust Properties in West Wales

As we look to welcome Autumn and the weather begins to cool, our local area remains an exciting place to visit, with lots of West Wales attractions to see and explore. 

We have put together a short list of some of the best National Trust properties for you to visit during your stay at Dolgoy Cottages. From beautiful Georgian villas to Roman gold mines, there is something for everyone looking for things to do in West Wales.

If you are visiting between the 18th of September and the 20th of October 2023, you can take advantage of this special offer from the National Trust, which provides a free, single-use pass to a place of your choice. 

Llanerchaeron

Located just 13 miles from Dolgoy Cottages, Llanerchaeron is a Georgian Villa designed by British architect, John Nash in 1970. Did you know that he is also the mind behind Buckingham Palace and Brighton’s Royal Pavilion?

This beautiful property looks picturesque against the backdrop of the Welsh countryside. Explore the estate’s woodland that is packed with wildlife, say hello to farm animals and discover the walled garden which has been growing fruits and vegetables for over 200 years.

Dinefwr Park

If you have a love for nature, then this National Trust site in West Wales is a must-visit. Situated 37 miles from Dolgoy Cottages, there is plenty of history to uncover here. Dinefwr Park is home to Newton House, lived in for over 300 years by the family and descendants of Lord Rhys. The surrounding parkland is just as impressive. It is recognised as a site of special scientific interest with an abundance of wildlife and an 18th-century deer park. 

Hafod Estate

Located 38 miles from our holiday cottages near Cardigan Bay, we highly recommend a day trip here. Hafod Estate is a walker’s paradise, with five routes available to discover an array of landscapes, including woodlands, gorges, waterfalls and gardens. 

Dolaucothi Roman Gold Mine

This one is for adventurers and history enthusiasts! Situated 28 miles from Dolgoy Cottages and amongst the green hills of Carmarthenshire, you will find the UK’s only-known Roman gold mine. Pre-book an underground tour to discover it for yourself. You will have an opportunity to learn about the history of gold mining in Dolaucothi, from the Roman era through to the 1930s. 

Make a day of it and explore the surrounding countryside with 25km of pathways boasting wonderful scenery. 

National Trust Beaches

We are lucky to have local beaches kept and maintained by the National Trust, which are great places to visit all year round. Winter sun is plentiful in this part of the world – who’d have thought it?

Penbryn is a secluded cove with sandy shores nestled at the end of a short woodland trail. It’s about a mile in length and is a great place to visit with your four-legged friends who have full access to the beach from the 1st of October to the 31st of March. After your walk, you can visit the Plwmp Tart cafe for refreshments.

Mwnt is another sandy cove that takes you away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, you will have the chance to catch a glimpse of dolphins, seals and other local wildlife. This beach is dog-friendly during the off-peak season of October to April and has a small kiosk to purchase snacks and drinks. 

Book your stay at Dolgoy Cottages

Keep an eye on our blog for more ideas and inspiration for your next trip to West Wales. Dolgoy Cottages is in the perfect location to explore all of the above and more – we would love to welcome you during your next visit. Click the link to find out more about our luxury holiday cottages and check availability.

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The weather for ducks

A little wet and windy at Dolgoy but the ducks and geese have no complaints.
A little wet and windy at Dolgoy but the ducks and geese have no complaints. It is lovely watching them on the pond. Pure bliss for them and a delight for us as we cosy around the log burner waiting to gather the autumn leaves when the rain clears this afternoon.

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To the east


Botanical Gardens Wales
There are many places to explore inland from market towns, to castles and gardens. The National Botanic Gardens of Wales is located at Carmarthen, 30 miles from Dolgoy and the beautiful Aberglasney with its excellent tea rooms is located at Llangathan, 36 miles away. The National Trust Property Dinefwr Park with it house, 800 acres National Reserve parkland White Horn Cattle and castle is located 1.5 miles from the rural town of Llandeilo with its independent small shops.


Cenarth Falls
The tea rooms in the village of Cenarth with its waterfalls and reverside walks are a delight.

For shopping and antiques is the small market town of Narberth and if travelling in that direction why not take in some of Pembrokeshire seaside towns from Sandersfoot to Tenby, all with in an hour and half’s drive from Dolgoy.


Newcastle Emlyn
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To the south


City of St Davids
Further south along the coast into Pembrokeshire there are many places to visit. There is the cathedral city of St Davids (48 miles). Along your route you will travel through Newport which has lovely cafes, galleries, a sandy beach and quaint little street, sat on an estuary and close to the Presseli hills.

One of our favourite day outs is a walk if from Abereidy (44 miles from Dolgoy) near the Blue Lagoon, famous for its international diving competitions and coasteering to Porthgain . As you progress along the coast path with spectacular views, you will come across the sandy cove of Treath Llyfn. Porthgain, a picturesque harbour has the award winning fish and chips The Shed, a pub The Sloop, some art galleries to explore or simply a refreshing ice cream to enjoy before making the 2 mile journey back … the views are spectacular in both directions so it isn’t any hardship to walk back the same way.


Abereiddy

Abereiddy to Porthgain

Abereiddy to Porthgain

The Blue Lagoon

Porthgain

The Preselli Hills
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To the north


Aberaeron
As you travel along the coast towards Aberystwyth, you will pass the picturesque harbour town of Aberaeron with delis, home made cakes, home made ice creams , cafés, pubs and restaurants as well as small shops to brows in. From there you can either walk or drive to the National Trust property at Llanerchaeron , a John Nash villa with walled gardens and farm to explore.

30 miles from Dolgoy is the larger seaside town of Aberystwyth with an abundance of places to eat and shop or to take in the view from the . Here you will find the National Library of Wales, and the Aberystwyth Arts Centre. Stroll along the prom to take in the starlings or venture up the Vernacular Railway to take in the view.


Llanerchaeron

Vernacular Railway

Aberystwyth

Rheidol
You can travel The Vale of Rheidol narrow gauge railway for the 12 miles from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge. The walk taking in the waterfalls at Devils’ Bridge is lovely all year round, the colours of the changing seasons to the dramatic power after heavy rain.

Bwlch Nant yr Arian Visitor Centre sits at the head of a dramatic valley with scenic views of Cardigan Bay and the Cambrian Mountains. There is a visitor centre, trails for walkers, and mountain bikers. There is red kite feeding daily and a café to grab a cuppa. Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre is nine miles east of Aberystwyth on the A44.


Aberystwyth

Devils Bridge

Bwlch Nant yr Arian
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On our door step


Llangrannog
The coastal village of Llangrannog is a mile as the crow flies, 2 miles by car. The right hand side of the beach and the accessible coves at low tide are dog friendly all year round. There is free parking on the outskirts of the village and paid parking on the shore. There are two pubs (The Pentre Arms and The Ship, two café (The Beach Hut and The Patio and award winning take-away pizza (Tafell a Tan). Eat in, takeay, fish and chips, ice cream, life guard, dog friendly, some fabulous sunsets.

Llangrannog

Country lanes

Coastal Path

Penbryn
Penbryn is a National Trust sandy beach almost a mile in length and 4 miles from us by road. It lies further along the coast towards Cardigan and is a Dark Skies Site. No dogs during the summer. There is a lovely café providing home made cakes, snacks, lunches and coffee to go called The Plwmp Tart near the car park.

Pebryn

Cwtydu
Cwmtydu Beach is a mile as the crow flies, 2 miles by car. The beach is known for its pretty views and its quiet atmosphere and historically a hideaway for smugglers, making use of the cut off caves. Grey seals often come ashore and bottle nose dolphins can often be seen from the cliff tops. It is a pebble and sand beach and popular for fishing, there is also a former lime kiln. There is a
small friendly café to pick up coffee to go and additional parking in the small village .

Seals at Cwmtydu

New Quay
New Quay is a small coastal town 7 miles from us towards Aberystwyth. It has an abundance of pubs, cafes and ‘fish and chips’. There is a break water from which we frequently eat salty chips whilst watching the dolphins. There are two sandy beaches, one of which is dog friendly all year round. There are also trips available to see beautiful Ceredigion coast from the sea, its abundance of wildlife including bottle nose dolphins,

Bottle Nose Dolphins

Tresaith
There are many coves and coastal villages as you travel along from Penbryn to Cardigan including Tresaith with
its waterfall and The Ship Inn over look in the sea and there is a gentle part of the coast path leading the historic fishing village of Aberprorth. Further along there is the National Trust cove of Mwnt, a popular spot for Dolphin spotting. It has a small church with origins from the 12th Centuray.

Mwnt

Mwnt

Aberporth

Mwnt

Llangrannog to Cwmtydu Ynys Loctyn
Lots of lovely walks directly from Dolgoy including pretty paths, quiet country lanes and the spectacular coastal path

Ynys Loctyn

Cardigan
The ancient town of Cardigan sits on the estuary of the River Tefi . It has an array of café s and small shops to explore.You can walk along the Tefi to the Welsh Wild Life Centre and not far away is St. Dogmeals with its local produce markets on Tuesdays, the long sandy beach of Poppet for the sunny days or take tea and watch the storm roll in from The Cliff Hotel at Gwbert.

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Holiday Cottages

Galleri Cottage (Sleeps 4)

Galleri is a secluded cottage in Wales that boasts lots of living space, ideal for couples and older families with ensuite bedrooms. Rest in the tranquillity of the sunken garden, complete with a private Jacuzzi hot tub.

The cottage is well equipped with modern amenities, while its historical features give it charm and character. Galleri will be your home from home, and it’s in the perfect location to visit the beautiful Cardigan Bay and walk the coastal path – we are just a mile away from the beach as the crow flies.

Book directly with us to benefit from our price match guarantee and flexible cancellation terms.

Luxury holiday cottages | Places to visit West Wales | Dolgoy Cottages

A luxury, dog-friendly cottage on the coast of West Wales

The open-plan living area is spacious, cosy and comfortable. After a day of exploring the local area, return to Galleri for a peaceful evening. The dual-aspect log burner will keep the cottage toasty while creating a rustic, homely ambience. We will lay the fire ready to light for your arrival, and supply logs for the duration of your stay.

Relax on the luxury Ekornes leather reclining sofas with your favourite programme on the Smart TV, or simply appreciate the company of your loved ones as the flames of the wood burner dance in the background.

There is also a private hot tub available to use all year round.

What guests have said

Drink and dine together in the spacious living area

The kitchen has everything you need to cook and enjoy delicious, homemade meals during your stay, including an American freezer and induction hob. We highly recommend trying the delicious produce available from Dolgoy’s local markets!

The large, oak table is perfect for dinner and will comfortably fit all four guests at Galleri. If you have family or friends staying in our other cottages, this table can be extended to accommodate eight people so you can enjoy a wholesome dinner together.

Two comfortable en-suite bedrooms designed for a peaceful night’s sleep

The master bedroom has an inviting, king-size oak bed. Comfort is promised thanks to the pocket-sprung and tufted mattress with a topper for extra luxury. The soft and fluffy feather bedding will keep you warm and cosy.

The second bedroom can be presented with a super king-size bed or two singles, depending on your preference. Whatever you choose, you can enjoy the same level of comfort as the master bedroom, with a plush mattress, feather bedding and high-quality linens.

Both bedrooms have the luxury of an en-suite bathroom for your convenience. Step into the large and powerful walk-in shower; choose from either rain or spray settings. Afterwards, step onto the warmth of the heated tile floors.

Relax in a cosy corner and enjoy the tranquillity of Dolgoy

There are many cosy corners to enjoy at Galleri. Our secluded location and the quiet surrounding countryside mean there is no better place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Find a restful spot in the gallery and gently rock by the window under the double-height living area.

Outside, you can submerge yourself in the tranquillity of your private, sunken garden featuring a living wall. There is also seating at the front, where you can take pleasure in the picturesque views across the pond. It’s easy to feel at one with nature at Dolgoy Cottages.

Unwind in the private hot tub

Galleri has a private Jacuzzi hot tub that is available to use all year round. Our remote setting also means we are in a great location for stargazing. With little to no light pollution, the dark skies can be admired – why not enjoy the starry nights from the luxury of the hot tub?

We are also dog-friendly and have a large paddock available to use during your stay.

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Holiday Cottages

Ponycob Cottage (Sleeps 4)

A spacious holiday cottage near Cardigan Bay to rest and relax. Perfect for couples or older families with ensuite bedrooms, reclining leather sofas, a wood burner and a private Jacuzzi hot tub. Ponycob has been beautifully converted to a high standard while retaining its historical character with vaulted ceilings, oak beams and solid oak floors throughout.

We want our cottage to be your home away from home. You will find an array of contemporary amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Adults and children over 14 welcome.

Book directly with us to benefit from our price match guarantee and flexible cancellation terms.

Luxury holiday cottages | Places to visit West Wales | Dolgoy Cottages

A luxury, coastal cottage with peaceful surroundings

There is nowhere better to relax after exploring the nearby beaches, coves and market towns and the scenic Ceredigion coastal path – we even have views from the sea from our gates. Or, simply spend the day at Ponycob and make the most out of your luxurious accommodation and the tranquillity of Dolgoy.

A private Jacuzzi hot tub awaits you in the garden and is available to use all year round. Sit back, relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. Enjoy the novelty of this luxury pastime, and feel the benefits of the bubbles and jets to ease your muscles after a long walk along the coast.

The cottage is fitted with a dual-aspect log burner, helping us to be more sustainable while creating a cosy ambience on the cooler evenings. We will ensure that the wood burner is laid to light for your arrival, with a basket of logs and firelighters to use during your stay. Plus, you can replenish your supply, at no extra charge.

The spacious, open-plan living area also has luxury Ekornes reclining furniture and a Smart TV. Relax with your friends or family and spend the evening together.

What our guests say

Two comfortable en-suite bedrooms

Ponycob has two comfortable ensuite bedrooms. The master bedroom has a king-size oak bed, deluxe feather bedding, hotel-quality linens and a pocket-sprung and tufted mattress with a topper for extra comfort.

The second bedroom can be set as a super king or singles, depending on your preference. Whatever your choice, you can enjoy the comfort of a plush feather duvet and a pocket-sprung and tufted mattress with a topper.

Both bedrooms have an en-suite for your privacy and comfort. Depending on your room, you will find a spacious walk-in shower or a shower over bath. However, they both have the luxury of powerful water pressure and both bathrooms benefit from underfloor heating that maintains a pleasant temperature.

Wine and dine with family & friends

As you step indoors, you will find a well equipped kitchen with all the utensils, homeware and amenities you need to enjoy home cooked meals during your stay. Sit together around the oak table which comfortably seats four, but can be extended to seat eight if you are on holiday with other guests at Dolgoy.

A dog-friendly holiday cottage near Cardigan Bay

Ponycob is a dog friendly cottage in Wales with an enclosed garden that is accessible via steps from the bedroom or gate to the side. We also have a huge paddock, where you can exercise your dog during your stay.

The outside furniture is ready for you to sit and enjoy the warm weather of the Welsh coast. As the crow flies, we are just 1 mile from the sea with coastline visible from our properties.

Enjoy the peaceful terrace to the front for picturesque views of the pond and the surrounding countryside; it’s certainly a tranquil spot to savour your morning coffee and a bite to eat. 

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Snuggle Cottage (Sleeps 2)

A beautiful cottage on the Welsh coast, both cosy and cute but deceptively spacious. It has lovely features with beams, lofted ceilings and solid oak floors throughout, paired with contemporary comforts. Adults and children over 14 welcome.

Book directly with us to benefit from our price match guarantee and flexible cancellation terms.

Luxury holiday cottages | Places to visit West Wales | Dolgoy Cottages

Cook, relax and reconnect with your loved one at our coastal retreat

Snuggle Cottage is well-equipped for a peaceful and romantic stay. Relax by the wood burner or stargaze in the hot tub. It’s also a great base for exploring the coast of Cardigan Bay, the market towns of Ceredigion or walking the Welsh coastal path. As the crow flies, we are just 1 mile from the sea with a beautiful view of the horizon to be seen from our gates.

Contemporary amenities meet beautiful heritage in the spacious, open-plan living area. The old beams are reminiscent of its history as a stable, combined with modern conveniences for your comfort.

The kitchen has everything you need for your stay so you can enjoy a home cooked meal for two at the Pembroke table. Treat this luxury accommodation in Wales as your home away from home.

After dinner, snuggle up with your loved one on the luxury, Ekornes leather reclining sofa with the warmth of the log burner – the perfect ambience for those cosy evenings. We will lay the fire ready to light for your arrival and supply logs and firestarters for your stay. If you begin to run low, you will be will be able to restock your basket at no extra cost.

Outside, you will have access to your own private hot tub, which is available to use all year round.

What our guests have said

Luxurious bedroom & en-suite for ultimate comfort

When it is time to sleep, step through the wooden doors to your hidden staircase and retire to the spacious bedroom, where a luxurious, oak king-size bed is waiting for you. We promise a peaceful night’s sleep with the pocket-sprung tufted mattress and topper, complete with feather bedding for ultimate comfort.

The bedroom has an en-suite bathroom with a large, powerful walk-in shower, plenty of room to get ready for the day ahead and underfloor heating to keep you warm.

Look out for bespoke soft furnishings throughout that we have thoughtfully designed to add the finishing touches to Snuggle Cottage.

Enjoy the tranquil surroundings from your private hot tub

At our remote cottage in Wales, you will find a small haven of tranquillity in the enclosed patio garden, complete with a private Jacuzzi hot tub. It’s the perfect spot to take some time out after a day of exploring or to stargaze in the evenings – we get the darkest of nights here at Dolgoy!

There is also seating on the front terrace to soak up the sun and enjoy the calmness with a cup of coffee or a glass of wine – whatever your tipple!

A luxury dog-friendly cottage in Wales

Dogs are welcome at Dolgoy Cottages, and we have a large paddock available to exercise and play with your pet during your holiday.

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The Coach House Loft (Sleeps 2)

A comfortable detached coastal holiday cottage in Wales complete with a hot tub and dual aspect log burner for a perfect, romantic retreat for two.

The Coach House Loft oozes historical character with vaulted ceilings and solid oak floors throughout, while benefiting from luxurious soft furnishings and contemporary amenities. Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, relax together in front of the wood burner, and snuggle in the oak king-size bed as the flames go down.

Book directly with us to benefit from our price match guarantee and flexible cancellation terms.

Luxury holiday cottages | Places to visit West Wales | Dolgoy Cottages

A private coastal holiday cottage with a hot tub

Just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Cardigan Bay, you can spend the afternoon taking a walk along the coastal path, exploring local beaches and hidden coves, visiting local market towns or simply relaxing at your home from home. Adults and children over 14 welcome.

Soak up the tranquillity of the Welsh countryside in your private Jacuzzi hot tub. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy on a Summer’s afternoon or for gazing at the stars on a clear evening. Treat yourself to a glass of bubbles as you reconnect and share a peaceful moment.

What our guests say

A romantic break for two in the peaceful countryside

We have created a spacious and comfortable open-plan living space for you to enjoy during your stay. Why not pick up some fresh produce from one of the many local markets and cook a delicious meal for your special someone – the kitchen is well-equipped and home to plenty of modern amenities.

After dinner, curl up or stretch out on the luxury Ekornes reclining sofa and watch your favourite film on the TV. Combined with bespoke soft furnishings, it’s a cosy spot to switch off and enjoy each other’s company.

The wood burner will be laid ready to light, and please help yourself to the basket of logs and firelighters throughout your stay. If you run out of logs, you will be able to replenish your stocks, free of charge.

A restful night’s sleep in the luxurious en-suite bedroom

As you step into the bedroom, an oak king-size bed will welcome you with feather bedding, soft linens and a pocket-sprung and tufted mattress. It’s everything you need for a restful night’s sleep and the sweetest dreams. If you visit our luxury cottage in West Wales during the cooler months, the log burner will bring a sense of romance and cosiness as the embers glow.

Begin your morning under the waterfall of the large, powerful walk-in shower – choose from the rain or spray settings. The en-suite’s underfloor heating will ensure the room is kept at a comfortable temperature. 

A dog-friendly hot tub weekend break

As a dog-friendly accommodation offering, Dolgoy Cottages has its own, spacious paddock especially for your four-legged friends. It’s the perfect spot for them to stretch their legs and play in the countryside.

The Coach House Loft is accessed via slate and stone steps from its patio garden and has its own parking area. There is a utility and store room underneath this property, but rest assured that you will have full privacy, and peace and quiet during your stay.

Check availability at The Coach House Loft

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