Category: Blog

We live in a fast-paced world with long days at work, buzzing phones, hours spent commuting in trains and cars. A moment of solitude can often only be found by escaping the day-to-day and booking a quiet, adults-only weekend away in the UK. Dolgoy Cottages is the perfect retreat.

Our cosy, coastal cottages in Wales are nestled in the serene countryside with lush green grass, rolling hills and beautiful birdsong. Meanwhile, just a short distance away the golden sands, hidden coves and blue waters of our spectacular coastline await.

Embrace mindfulness at the beach

Being near the sea can do wonders for your well-being, with so many elements inspiring the senses. Feel the soft sand rippling through your toes, listen to the waves lapping against the rocks, breathe in the fresh, salty air and take in the vastness of the sea.

Cardigan Bay is home to many beautiful beaches where you can find a secluded spot to switch off and practice mindfulness or meditation. Take deep breaths and feel present in the moment. Soak up the calmness of the tranquil surroundings before returning to your cottage and relaxing into the evening. Recline on the luxurious sofas as the wood burner crackles, and retire to the comfort of your king-size bed for a restful night’s sleep in the quiet countryside.

Stargazing at our dark sky cottages

The night sky is the essence of mindfulness and relaxation – especially at Dolgoy Cottages. With minimal light pollution, thousands of stars twinkle against the darkness. It’s not important to know about constellations, simply immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky.

West Wales has an impressive selection of recognised stargazing locations, including local beaches, Penbryn and Cwmtydu. Pop a blanket and a flask of hot chocolate in the car, and make yourself comfortable. Concentrate on finding patterns and shapes amongst the stars – you will soon forget about the worries and stresses that daily life brings.

Our secluded dark sky cottages are also a great spot for enjoying the stillness of the dark skies. As the night draws in, turn on your private hot tub, pour a glass of bubbly and relax with your special someone.

Go off-grid and find things to do in West Wales

A digital detox can be the perfect remedy for those with busy schedules. There is no better place to go off-grid than our coastal cottages in Wales. Try turning off your phone or tablet – even just for a couple of hours – during your stay at Dolgoy.

 Live in the moment and enjoy the wonders of nature; there is so much to enjoy around the countryside and coastline of Cardigan Bay. Amble down the country lanes to see beautiful flowers and an array of bird life. Or, wander the coastal path for the chance to see dolphins, seals and more. The rustling of leaves and the chorus of birdsong fosters relaxation – it’s far from the hustle and bustle of your home town. Capture the moment without your smartphone.

Book your stay at our coastal holiday with hot tubs

Ready to escape your responsibilities and book a stay at our coastal retreat? The peace and tranquillity of Dolgoy Cottages is waiting for you. Check availability and book your stay.

Dolgoy Cottages is nestled in the idyllic countryside, while just being a short distance away from the best beaches in West Wales. Our unique location means that we are a haven for some of the most spectacular wildlife that can be found in the UK, from playful dolphins to magnificent birds of prey.

Wildlife spotting often feels like a novelty – how often do you see bottlenose dolphins during your commute to the office? But, spending time immersed in nature helps us take a step back from our busy day-to-day lives, helping us to relieve stress and improve our wellbeing. It’s the perfect activity for recovery holidays and for those who simply just wish to relax.

Our luxury adult-only holiday cottages are the perfect base from which to explore, as well as providing a peaceful setting to rest and rejuvenate after a day of exploring. Each cottage has a private hot tub to soak up the tranquil surroundings and our secluded location keeps noise at a minimum.

In this blog, we have put together a short guide on the types of wildlife you can see, and when and where you can expect to spot them during your stay at our dog-friendly, coastal holiday cottages in Wales.

Bottlenose Dolphins

Cardigan Bay is one of the UK’s most renowned spots for seeing bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Often thought of as tropical creatures, there is something quite magical about spotting groups of bottlenose dolphins emerging from the blue waters of Cardigan Bay.

New Quay is the best location to see them, with several companies offering wildlife boat trips. You may also see other sea creatures along the way, as well as panoramic views of the coastline which you won’t want to miss.

You will have the most opportunities to see the dolphins during the Summer months, between June and September.

Atlantic Grey Seals

Can you believe that Atlantic Grey Seals slumber on our shores, too? It can be rare to see Grey seals, as they spend the majority of their time out at sea, but they can be spotted around Cardigan Bay by taking a breezy walk along the coast or during an organised boat trip.

The best places to spot Atlantic Grey Seals are Cwmtydu and Mwnt, snug amongst the hidden coves and secluded caves, basking on the rocks and sandy shores.

They will come ashore during the autumn months, September to October to care for their newborn pups.

Please be mindful not to get too close. Keep a good distance of 50 metres or more – they are also extremely scared of dogs and the last thing we want to do is cause the pups to escape into the waves before they are ready to swim.

Harbour Porpoises

Related closely to dolphins, harbour porpoises are known for being shy and reserved compared to their exuberant cousins – making them slightly harder to spot. They are also the only species of porpoise that reside in UK waters.

You will have a good chance of seeing harbour porpoises during a walk along the Ceredigion Coast Path, particularly the stretch from Llangrannog. Head to the end of the iconic Ynys Lochtyn for the best opportunity to see them.

Harbour porpoises can be seen throughout the year but it is more common to see them in the summer months.

Bird Life

From sea birds to birds of prey, Cardigan Bay and the surrounding areas are a birdwatcher’s paradise.

During the spring and summer months, take a trip out to the Ynys-hir RSPB Reserve by the Dyfi estuary in Ceredigion to see razorbills, guillemots, and even puffins. The cliff tops at Mwnt beach also provide a good lookout to spot these seabirds.

Graceful but cunning Red Kites can often be seen around our cottages, gliding and swooping through the skies. If you fancy a trip further afield, there is a Red Kite feeding centre near Aberystwyth for the chance to see them up close.

Last but not least, and only frequenting the West side of the UK, are the agile Choughs. Known for being impressive flyers, they dart and dive around the coastline. Similar to the seabirds mentioned above, the cliff tops at Mwnt and New Quay offer the best birdwatching spots for Choughs, and they can often be seen all year round.

Book your luxury adult-only holiday and plan wildlife-spotting excursions

Are you ready to experience nature and enjoy a tranquil adult-only break in the UK?

We have four, dog-friendly holiday cottages available for your stay. Each has its own private hot tub and a host of contemporary amenities to create a home away from home, where you can switch off and relax.

Check availability and book today – look out for discounts at checkout.

Did you know that Dolgoy Cottages is exclusively an adult-only holiday destination? We welcome babes in arms (under 3 years of age) and children over 16 years of age.

Whether you’re after a romantic break for a couples-only holiday or want some time to reconnect with your partner away from a busy household, our secluded, dog-friendly cottages in Wales are the perfect choice.

All four luxury cottages are designed with adults in mind. During your stay, you can soak up the tranquillity of countryside surroundings, enjoy a peaceful moment in your private hot tub and create a delicious meal using the finest ingredients from our local farm shops and delis – put yourself first and indulge in self-care.

Our coastal location is not short of fun and adventures for couples-only holidays or getaways with friends. The nearest beach is just 1 mile from the coast as the crow flies. If you love to explore, hop onto the coastal path and discover hidden coves, wonderful wildlife and quaint seaside towns. For those who simply want to unwind, why not spend the day at one of our sandy beaches? Paddle, read a book in the sunshine, or enjoy a drink with a beautiful view.

We’re dog-friendly, so there’s no need to book your four-legged friend into the kennels while you’re away. Our location is a dog’s paradise. We have a shared exercise paddock, where your pup can run and play in the grass while you spectate with a cup of coffee. They will also love to explore the many countryside walks accessible directly from our cottages and lead to our scenic coastal paths.

Discover our adult-only lodges with private hot tubs

So which cottage is best for your luxury adults-only holiday in the UK? Snuggle Cottage and The Coach House Loft are both made for two, perfectly equipped for a peaceful and romantic escape with your special someone.

Galleri and Ponycob sleep four and make a great place to stay for older families or friendship groups. Each cottage has two ensuite bedrooms, one with a king-size bed, while the second bedroom can be set as a king or two singles depending on your preference. All bedrooms have en-suites for your privacy and comfort.

Each cottage has an abundance of contemporary amenities, including a private hot tub, a wood burner, and underfloor heating in the bathroom. We guarantee your stay will be cosy and comfortable.

Book your luxury adults-only holiday in the UK

Check availability and book your stay at Dolgoy Cottages for your next adult-only break in the UK – we look forward to seeing you!

Thinking of your Summer holidays? The coastline and countryside of Cardigan Bay are well worth a visit and have something for everyone. From wildlife spotting and water sports to dog-friendly beaches and quaint seaside towns. 

We’ve put together a guide of places to visit in West Wales to help you plan your perfect staycation, all of which are just a short distance from our luxury pet-friendly cottages with private hot tubs. 

Cardigan Bay attractions for Summer

Cardigan Bay comes to life during the Summer months. Best known for its beautiful, clean beaches, wondrous wildlife, unique history and breathtaking landscapes. 

The clear blue skies are filled with birdsong, the coastline is alive with colourful clifftop flowers and the towns enjoy the excited hum of locals and visitors alike. 

We have wonderful long Summer days, with lots of sunshine and warm weather to enjoy while the breeze from the coast keeps you cool. 

Here’s a list of the best Cardigan Bay attractions, and things to see and experience in the local area as you soak up the sun! 

Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips

Did you know that Cardigan Bay is home to the UK’s largest resident population of dolphins? You have the best chances of spotting them during the Summer with the harbour in New Quay being a renowned hotspot, as well as Aberaeron, Aberporth and Mwnt. 

Many of these locations have local businesses offering wildlife spotting trips along the Bay, offering you the chance to see bottlenose dolphins, porpoises and sometimes grey seals! 

• A Bay to Remember
• New Quay Boat Trips
• SeaMor Dolphin Watching

Explore Cardigan Castle

If you are a history buff, Cardigan Castle is an amazing place to visit in West Wales to learn about times gone by. 

Explore the medieval walls and the remains of the castle – those with good imaginations can picture the fortress in its former glory! Or book a tour guide to tell the story for you.

There is also a beautiful Georgian mansion to visit where you can learn about the residents of the castle through the different eras. Finish with a stroll around the Grade II listed gardens and see an array of rare plants. 

Dog-friendly beaches in West Wales

Cardigan Bay is extremely dog friendly, with many of the beautiful beaches allowing your four-legged friends all year round. We have a full blog that covers the best dog-friendly in West Wales, but we’ve named a few of our favourites below!

• Llangrannog (2 miles)
• Cwmtydu (2 miles)
• Tresaith (5 miles)
• Aberporth (9 miles)
• New Quay (6.5 miles)
• Poppit Sands (16 miles)

Your dog is welcome at our luxury pet-friendly cottages too. Complete with a dedicated paddock to exercise your dog anytime you need during your stay. 

Water Sports 

The Bay is a thrill-seeker’s dream, with lots of water sport activities to try! A dip in the sea can be great for the mind, as well as a lot of fun.

Take a trip to New Quay and visit Cardigan Bay Water Sports for kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, windsurfing and more. Offering taster sessions, longer courses and hire, they have lots of knowledge, experience and the latest equipment.

Wander our local coastal towns 

There are many quaint seaside towns and villages to explore along Cardigan Bay, with lots of pubs, cafes and restaurants where you can rest and refuel. 

Below are a few of our favourites, but if you want any recommendations visit our Friends of Dolgoy Cottages page for inspiration. 

• The Pentre Arms in Llangrannog – an award-winning, dog-friendly pub next to the beach 
• Tefal y Tan in Llangrannog – a delicious pizza takeaway, voted Best Pizzeria In Wales 2023
• Crwst in Cardigan – a wonderful dog-friendly cafe serving brunch, lunch and cakes
• Stubborn Duckling in Aberaeron – a fine dining restaurant with evening and Sunday Lunch menus.

Book your luxury hot tub break for Summer!

These are just a few of the Cardigan Bay attractions to enjoy during your stay at Dolgoy Cottages, but you can find more places to visit here. 

After a day of exploring you can look forward to returning to your cosy cottage, where you can relax in the hot tub, recline on the luxury sofas, and enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep in the comfortable king size beds.

You are also free to explore our grounds and the surrounding areas, where you can sit by the pond in the sunshine and say hello to our friendly farm animals.

 If you stay up late enough for the skies to get dark, we are also in a great spot for stargazing – an activity you can’t tend to enjoy unless you are in the secluded countryside. 

Look out for a discount on your Summer stay at checkout! 

There’s nothing more exciting than booking your annual getaway, and researching the must-visit travel destinations to plan your perfect Summer escape. But why spend hours travelling by plane when there’s an adventure to be found right here in the UK? 

Cardigan Bay, nestled within the stunning Welsh coastline offers the perfect retreat for all types of holidaymakers, without the hassle of long-distance travel. Here are 4 reasons why a staycation at our remote cottages in Wales should make it onto your holiday bucket list this year! 

Explore your own country & stay at our Wales cottages by the sea

It’s easy to overlook the UK’s hidden gems in favour of tropical islands and seaside resorts, but Cardigan Bay proves that picturesque landscapes and tranquil afternoons can be found right on your doorstep.

One day you could be exploring the charming seaside towns and villages, such as Llanggranog and New Quay, and tomorrow you could amble along the beautiful coastal path, spotting dolphins and seals along the quiet coves. The area isn’t short of opportunities to explore!

We also have a wealth of fascinating local history. Visit one of our many ancient historic landmarks, such as Cardigan Castle or St David’s Cathedral. Or if the sun is shining and the skies are clear – which is most days during the Summer months – take a trip down to one of our beautiful and pristine beaches. Feel the sand between your toes and take a dip in the sea, it’s surprisingly warm!

Holiday with your four-legged friends at our luxury dog-friendly cottages in Wales

We all feel that pang of guilt when we drop off our dogs at the kennels and spend the whole holiday hoping they’re okay. The best thing about staycations is that they can be enjoyed by the whole family – even our four-legged friends! 

Cardigan Bay is a fantastic location for dog lovers, with Dolgoy’s pet-friendly cottages being the perfect base from which to explore the area. 

There are plenty of dog-friendly beaches to enjoy – look out for seasonal restrictions for some – with plenty of cafes and pubs to refuel at afterwards.

Our luxury cottages have a shared exercise paddock where your dog can run as you enjoy your morning coffee. We also supply tags to keep your dog safe while you’re away from home.

Great for short breaks and recovery holidays

Short breaks and long weekends are becoming a popular choice for many of the UK’s holidaymakers. They provide an easy way to take time out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life without having to take a whole week off work. 

Just a few days at our rural retreat in Wales will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. 

Reconnect with nature as you explore Cardigan Bay’s countryside and coastline. Breathe in the fresh sea air, listen to birdsong that fills the sky, and keep an eye out for the wonderful wildlife that can be spotted across our landscapes. Spot playful bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic grey seals and an array of magnificent bird species. 

If you need a digital detox or a restful break to recuperate, simply enjoy the pleasures of our luxurious holiday cottages. Sit back and relax in your own private hot tub. Soak up the sun as the bubbles surround you, or take an evening dip and gaze at the stars. 

Prepare a meal using the finest local ingredients from the nearby farm shop, curl up on the comfortable sofas, enjoy a glass of wine in front of the log burner, and retire to your king-size bedroom for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Something for every type of holidaymaker

From thrillseekers to relaxation lovers, Cardigan Bay has activities for everyone, no matter how you like to holiday.

If you love the sea, try your hand at one of the many water sports on offer, including surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding. 

Outdoor adventurers can explore the stunning landscapes through hiking trails and boat tours. There are many countryside routes to enjoy, hop onto the Ceredigion Coast Path, or enjoy panoramic views of the Bay during a boat trip. 

Foodies will feel right at home with lots of delicious options to choose from – especially when it comes to seafood and pizza! Tafell A Tân pizzeria in Llangrannog is a must! 

There are also award-winning distilleries and mead makers nearby, where you can taste the finest local beverages, such as In The Welsh Wind and Afon Mêl.

Book your trip to Dolgoy Cottages

Our Wales cottages by the sea offer the perfect retreat from which to explore the coastline and countryside of Cardigan Bay. Look out for special offers on your stay at checkout! 

As Spring breathes new life into the Welsh countryside and coastline, there is no better time to immerse yourself in a luxury getaway at Dolgoy Cottages. We’re dog-friendly too, so you can relax with your furry friends and each cottage has its own private hot tub.

Enjoy a relaxing weekend break, or treat yourself and loved ones to an extended holiday near the coast. It’s the perfect time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and embrace the change in season.

There is nothing more refreshing than seeing the colours of nature begin to blossom as Spring approaches – the grass becomes a little greener, daffodils and snowdrops dance in the countryside and colourful clifftop flowers bring colour to the scenic coastal path.

We may be a little biased – but we think Cardigan Bay is the most beautiful place in Spring!

A relaxing weekend break in Spring

Located in such an idyllic spot of Wales – nestled amongst the Welsh hills and just a stone’s throw away from the sea, there is no better way to switch off from reality and reconnect with nature. Our quiet holiday destination highlights the beauty of nature around us, making us appreciate the simple things in life. 

There is nothing better than savouring a morning coffee in your private garden and enjoying the birdsong. Then why not explore the best beaches in West Wales? Spend your days discovering the quaint seaside towns and picturesque coves where you may see dolphins, grey seals and other wonderful wildlife. Roam the coastal paths and discover the perfect lunch spot just a short distance from our cottages.

Beautiful walks to enjoy in the sunshine

Full of scenic landscapes, offering spectacular views around the coast of Cardigan Bay, there are many walking options around Dolgoy Cottages. Whether you’re heading off on a morning amble or seeking a hiking adventure, there is something for everyone! We recommend hopping onto the Ceredigion Coast Path and following the coastline from Llangrannog to New Quay.

Thrilling watersports re-commence

For thrill-seekers, the blossoming of Spring means water sports in Cardigan Bay resume in full force – choose from sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking in the picturesque bay! Most of our local companies offering lessons and hiring will reopen in April as the sea becomes calmer and warmer. 

Discover our local history

From the architecture to the ancient walls, Cardigan is full of rich history, boasting several annual cultural festivals, and you might just be lucky enough to catch one on your next coastal escape!

Relax during a coastal break with hot tubs

Each of the cottages has its own private hot tub, which is available to use all year round. Listen to the dawn chorus as you immerse yourself in the bubbles, or gaze at the dark starry skies. As the night draws in, cosy up by your wood burner and enjoy the comfort of your ensuite, king-size bedroom.

Upcoming events this Spring in Cardigan

Barley Saturday is a long-standing tradition in Cardigan, held each year on the last Saturday in April. Dating back to the 19^th century the tradition began with farmers from the surrounding areas gathering in the town to hire workers and inspect stallions put out to stud. Today, it is a celebration focusing on horses, featuring parades and events throughout Cardigan. A day you won’t want to miss!  

Book your luxury coastal cottage in Wales

Whether you’re seeking adventure or solace, Cardigan in Spring is full of adventures, days out, and hidden treasures waiting to be explored. 

Indulge in the simple pleasures of country living at Dolgoy Cottages – we’re dog-friendly too! Play with your four-legged friend in the dedicated paddock, glimpse the Red Kites and Buzzards, or spot the wild orchids at the foot of the hedgerows. Book your stay with us now and fall in love with the tranquillity of Dolgoy and the beauty of Ceredigion.

There are lots of occasions throughout the year which we choose to celebrate with our nearest and dearest; Mother’s Day breaks, Easter, Father’s Day, Birthdays, Christmases – the list goes on.

Sometimes the best way to spend quality time together is by booking a staycation with family. Away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life with no distractions interrupting your plans.

Dolgoy Cottages provides the perfect location for such getaways at any time of year. Our four holiday cottages are designed for older children, parents and grandparents – we’re dog-friendly too! Each cottage is fully equipped with modern amenities, a private hot tub and a log burner.

Picture your stay at our holiday cottages in Wales by the beach

So, what makes Dolgoy Cottages a great option for family holidays?

We often see families book two or three of our cottages to ensure that everyone can enjoy their own space, while still being able to eat, drink and relax together.

Galleri and Ponycob sleep four people in total. With two separate bedrooms – one with a king-size bed, while the other can be set as a king or two singles; ideal for parents with older children (we welcome children aged 14 and over). Both bedrooms have the luxury of ensuite bathrooms for privacy.

Meanwhile, Snuggle and The Coach House Loft, sleep two with sumptuous king-size beds for a restful night’s sleep. Grandparents usually choose to stay here so they can retire to the peace of their comfortable cottage when the night draws in.

Sharing a home-cooked meal with family always feels special. In the evening, everyone can come together at one of the larger cottages to enjoy a delicious dinner. Galleri and Ponycob benefit from extendable dining tables to accommodate the whole family. Afterwards, relax on the luxury Ekornes sofas and while the evening away in the warmth of the log burner. Open a bottle of wine, play a board game or just have a good old natter. Doesn’t this sound like a perfect Mother’s Day break?

Peaceful, luxury holidays in Wales to rest and relax

All of our cottages are set in rural Wales, surrounded by quaint country lanes, picturesque scenery and just a mile away from the coast as the crow flies. It really has the best of both worlds.

There are plenty of quiet spots to enjoy the tranquillity of Dolgoy. Whether that’s in a cosy corner of the cottages, bathing in a suntrap on the terrace, relaxing in your private hot tub, or as you stroll by the lake.

Lots of places to explore

While some of your relatives may choose to enjoy our grounds, those with the desire to explore the local area won’t be short of things to do.

We have easy access to one of the renowned spots of the Ceredigion Coast Path. The stretch from Llangrannog to New Quay is most spectacular with lots of wildlife, seabirds and iconic landmarks to see along the way.

For a quiet day out, why not visit one of the local market towns and enjoy a wander around the shops and eateries? The town of Cardigan is well worth a visit and was proud to be awarded third place in Time Out’s 15 places to visit in 2023.

Book a coastal break with hot tubs

Check availability at our luxury holiday cottages to book a staycation with your family. Or if you would like to treat your loved ones to a future stay, we have gift vouchers available to purchase on our website.

Flowers, jewellery, a fancy meal… there are many ways to celebrate your special someone, and it’s never too early to think about how you will spend Valentine’s Day.

Often, the nicest gift of all is quality time together – we all know how hectic daily life can be! So why not spoil your loved one with a stay at our fairytale holiday cottages near Cardigan Bay?

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at our Luxury Cottages West Wales

Snuggle Cottage and The Coach House Loft are quaint and cosy. Perfect for two, they make for an idyllic romantic getaway in Wales with hot tubs, wood burners and luxurious bedrooms. Find out more about our cottages below.

Reconnect with your loved one

Our luxurious cottages and tranquil location provide the perfect setting to enjoy one another’s company.

Snuggle Cottage lives up to its name and is the epitome of a romantic hideaway. Pull out all the stops with a home-cooked meal for your special someone and enjoy a candlelit dinner for two at the Pembroke table. Cuddle up in front of the wood burner, and reminisce about your fondest memories. Follow the hidden staircase to the luxurious bedroom where a peaceful night’s sleep awaits you.

The Coach House Loft is just as desirable. Curl up on the luxury reclining sofas with your favourite film and a glass of wine or bubbles. Retire to the bedroom, where the log burner will bring a sense of romance and cosiness as the embers dance and glow.

Our other cottages sleep 4 with en-suite bathrooms. These are a great choice if you require a little more space or wish to celebrate Valentine’s with friends. 

Enjoy the dark skies from the gardens of our stargazing accommodation

Turn on your private Jaquzzi hot tub, pour yourselves a glass of champagne and enjoy the dark skies above you. Stargazing with your favourite person – we can’t think of anything more romantic.

Our secluded countryside location is a prime spot for admiring the starry skies. There is no better time to enjoy this activity than in the Winter months when evenings are darker and longer. 

Check availability for romantic getaways in Wales with hot tubs.

Wander the coastal path and explore the quaint market towns

The unique location of our luxury cottages in West Wales has something for every type of couple. Whether you love to explore, relax or wine and dine. 

We are just a stone’s throw away from a popular stretch of the Ceredigion Coast Path. Cwmtydu to Llangrannog has some of the most beautiful views and scenery that can be appreciated even in Winter. Wrap up warm and walk hand in hand along the cliff-top path. 

There are many local towns to visit with an array of cafes, eateries, pubs and independent retailers – New Quay, Aberaeron and Cardigan are well worth a visit. 

Take a look at our Things To Do page for more inspiration on the best places to visit during your stay. 

Book a Holiday Cottage near Cardigan Bay

There is still plenty of time to book your luxury holiday in Wales for Valentine’s Day. Explore our cottages and check availability. 

Have you started to think about where you will holiday this year? If you are looking for a peaceful, luxury holiday in Wales, look no further than Dolgoy Cottages.

Our location is perfect for exploring the tranquil countryside, the beautiful beaches and walking the Coastal Path. With many nearby places to visit in West Wales, we have something for everyone, no matter how you like to holiday.

To help you decide, we have listed the top 5 reasons to book your next holiday with us.

1. Dog-Friendly Cottages in West Wales

We have four luxury holiday cottages sleeping 2-4 people – perfect for couples seeking a romantic break, older families looking to spend quality time together or for enjoying holidays with friends. Our secluded countryside location offers a peaceful break from busy everyday life – allowing you to switch off and enjoy a relaxing stay.

All of our cottages are dog-friendly, so your furry friend can come along and enjoy the holiday just as much as you. We have a large exercise paddock for them to run and play before retiring to the comfort of the wood burner in the evening. 

2. Hot Tub Lodge Stays and Dark Sky Cottages

Each cottage has its own Jacuzzi hot tub to enjoy at any time of the year. Relax and unwind as you immerse yourself in the bubbles. Why not take a dip as the night draws in and create an intimate stargazing experience? We have the darkest of skies and brilliant views of the stars and constellations on a clear evening. 

3. Places to Visit in West Wales

One of the best things about Dolgoy Cottages is our location. As the crow flies, we are just a mile away from the picturesque coastline – you can even see the horizon from our gates! Explore the stunning scenery around our cottages before heading further afield – there is an abundance of flora and fauna to see.

There are many other beaches and coves just a short drive from here, including Llangrannog, Penbryn, and Poppit Sands. Read our blog to discover the best dog-friendly beaches. 

If you prefer to mosy around pubs and restaurants or partake in a spot of retail therapy, take a trip to one of the nearby market towns. Aberaeron and New Quay are a couple of our favourites – take in the idyllic surroundings alongside the quaint shops and eateries. We also have some fantastic National Trust locations if you would like to learn more about our local history. 

What about wildlife and all things outdoors? Yes, we have that too! Mwnt is a popular spot, where there is a chance you will see Bottle Nose Dolphins. Or, if watersports take your fancy, Tresaith is a great beach for sailing and surfing during the Summer months. 

Visit the Things to Do area of our website for more inspiration. 

4. Enjoy luxury amenities at your home-from-home 

As well as the hot tub, our cottages are equipped with plenty of contemporary amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. 

The living spaces in our dark sky cottages are home to reclining leather sofas, a TV and a wood burner to create a cosy ambience, with all the logs and firelighters you need for your stay. Meanwhile, the kitchen has everything you need to prepare and cook delicious meals if you fancy a relaxing night at home. 

With king-size beds, plush mattresses and luxury linens, a restful night’s sleep is guaranteed. All of our bedrooms are ensuite with large walk-in showers and heated floors.

5. Book your luxury holiday in Wales with confidence 

Book directly for the best prices and flexible cancellation terms. We know things can happen unexpectedly, and although we hope you don’t have to, any booking made via our website can be cancelled up to 14 nights before your arrival date with a full refund. Check availability for your next hot tub lodge stay.

There aren’t many things that could be more peaceful than stargazing. Nothing around you apart from the silent countryside, dark skies and the twinkling lights of the stars above you.

Our holiday cottages in Cardigan Bay provide the perfect spot for this tranquil activity, whether you gaze from the bubbles during a hot tub weekend break, or take a short drive to one of the many sites in the local area.

It’s possible to stargaze all year round, but the autumn and winter months truly are the best, thanks to the early evenings and skies being darker for longer.

Stargazing at our dark sky lodges with hot tubs

We are lucky to have plenty of stargazing spots nearby, but there’s no need to travel at all – the gardens of our cottages are a great place to take in the wonders of the night sky!

With each cottage boasting its own private Jacuzzi hot tub, why not sit back, relax and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of our countryside stargazing accommodation? Enjoy the stars sparkling above as the water bubbles around you.

When it’s time to call it a night, you can retire to the luxurious reclining sofas and the welcoming log burner. Snuggle up and watch the embers glow. Is there a better way to spend a winter’s evening?

If you do want to explore the local area, Ceredigion is home to some amazing stargazing locations, including recognised dark sky discovery sites. Find out more about a few of our favourites.

Penbryn Beach Car Park

We have recommended Penbryn as a great beach to visit by day, but at night it’s just as wonderful. The beach car park has been noted as a dark sky discovery site and is just a 10-minute drive from our holiday cottages in Cardigan Bay.

The car park belongs to the National Trust and is located close to the beach with free parking during the evenings.

Llanerchaeron

This location is situated just 30 minutes away from our dark sky lodges with hot tubs. Llanerchaeron is another National Trust location where you can park for free from dusk until dawn. Its countryside location means minimal light pollution, making it a great spot to see the stars.

Cwmtydu Beach Car Park

Cwmtydu is a 5-minute drive from our cottages and provides a fantastic location for stargazing. Away from the lights of the local area, the skies are particularly dark here and allow the stars to shine brightly. It’s beautiful if you manage to go on a clear night. 

Poppit Sands Car Park

Poppit Sands Beach is a little further along the coast, but still only a 30-minute drive from Dolgoy Cottages. 

The beach car park is a recognised dark sky discovery site. It is spacious, accessible and unlit for the best experience – you can also pop down to the beach if you fancy it! The car park is free from 5.30 pm onwards.

Llanllwni Mountain

For an inland option, we recommend the picnic site at Llanllwni Mountain – around 30 minutes from our cottages. 

If you join us on a clear, dry day, you can experience beautiful views during daylight, before descending to experience undisturbed views of the sweeping skies as the night draws in.

Stargazing tips

Now you know the best spots, we thought we would give you a few tips so you are fully equipped for your stargazing experience! 

When should I go?

Plan your trip around the moon! You want the skies to be as dark as possible to see the stars in all their glory. Stargazing websites such as Go Stargazing, can help you figure this out! 

What should I take with me?

Bearing in mind that the autumn and winter months are the best times to go, you must have everything you need to stay safe and comfortable. We recommend taking extra layers, waterproofs and even a blanket! A nice flask of tea or hot chocolate is also a good idea. 

If you’re worried about going out in the evening, always let a loved one know where you’re going and send them a message to let them know you arrived home safely.

How can I spot the constellations? 

As a novice stargazer, you may want a helping hand to explore the skies. There are plenty of apps and websites that help you do so – do a quick search on the internet to find the right one for you! 

Book your stay at our luxury stargazing accommodation

Does stargazing sound like an activity you would like to try? Book your romantic break in Wales and experience some of our best locations!