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What better way to enjoy the stunning scenery here in West Wales than by horse or pony? Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion have a wealth of picturesque lanes, ancient bridleways and woodland, and of course long stretches of sandy beaches which are perfect for exploring from horseback. Take advantage of having the majestic Preseli Hills right on our doorstep, and head out for a relaxing day enjoying the wonderful wildlife from the best vantage point. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, there is something for you. Some of the stables offer rides for small children, and even hen or stag parties.  1. Preseli Pony Trekking - Ashvale Holiday & Riding Stables, Pantyrhug, Mynachlog-ddu, Clynderwen, Pembrokeshire, SA66 7SE
Escorted riding routes are offered over the tracks and moorland of the magical Preseli Hills, from an hour to a half or whole day. You can do the one hour route with no riding experience and they lead beginners if needed. There are plenty of choices for medium level to experienced riders, taking in some of the most spectacular sights and scenery in the area, including their Golden Road Picnic ride, Tafarn Sinc Pub ride, Stone Circle ride, and Foel Dyrch ride. If you have small children, there's even a Tiny Tots Trail ride. 2. Crosswell Riding Stables - Iet Wen, Velindre, Crymych, SA41 2XF This stable is based in the heart of the Pembrokeshire National Park and offers a range of treks, from half an hour to a full day or even two or three days, on a variety of routes in the Preseli Hills and the Gwaun valley. Wanting a longer session to keep the children entertained for the day? Look no further - they offer an Own A Pony day, which includes sand school lessons, stable management, a treasure hunt, quiz, a gymkhana - and rosettes for everyone at the end of the day. For adults, how about a Pub Ride, trekking through woodland and lanes to a local pub. 3. Havard Stables - Newport, SA42 0ST This RDA accessible riding centre makes riding fun and available for all abilities. They offer trekking on quiet lanes and in the mountains, lessons in their outdoor arena, Pony Club, Saddle Club, Pony Days, and children's clubs. The horses are all well trained, safe, well mannered, and enjoyable to ride. 4. Marros Riding Centre - Marros Farm, Marros, Pendine, SA33 4PN A family-owned centre, set in 140 acres including their own off-road private woodland. They have 34 horses for all standards of rider, and an indoor and outdoor school for those starting out or looking to improve. If cantering over the sand and surf would be a dream come true for you, then book their Beach ride; walk and trot along the byways and farm tracks leading to Morfa Bychan Beach, then gallop along the seven mile Pendine Sands. 5. Llanwnda Stables - Penrhiw Fach, Llanwnda, Goodwick, SA64 0HS Tuition and rides offered in the Pembrokeshire National Park, half and whole day treks for all abilities. 6. Penty Parc Stables - Penty Parc Mill, Clarbeston Road, Haverfordwest, SA63 4QP Suitable for riders of all abilities, this stable has well schooled horses and qualified instructors. This is a great choice if you're looking for jumping, cross country, or hacking. Our Scottish cousins are of course well known for their whiskies but the Welsh are no slouches in that department either. As we start heading in to autumn, the idea of sitting by a log fire sipping a tot of something warming is beginning to sound very appealing. In fact there are a number of distilleries and breweries right here in West Wales, so if you'd like to taste some locally made alcohol, read on.  Local Breweries and Distilleries
We are absolutely spoilt for choice - it must be something in the water.... 1. Bluestone Brewing Company - Newport Named after the famous Preseli bluestones, this award winning eco-friendly business produces a good selection of bottle craft beers. If you want to try some, we sell it in Reception or you can order yourself online. More information 2. In the Welsh Wind This wonderfully named gin distillery is just outside Cardigan and well worth a visit if you like your gin. They only use botanicals native to Wales, or synonymous with it; and you can even book gin making and gin tasting experiences. They are also now distilling a 'Welsh Origin Whisky'. More information 3. Mantle Brewery Based in Cardigan, this is a family-run micro brewery that produces a range of excellent Welsh Real Ales. In their first year this team won a SIBA award for their Porter Dark Heart and have won other awards since, so they know their business! If you become a fan, you can even buy a t-shirt or beanie to show your support. More information 4. Cardigan Brewery This brewery is also based in Cardigan, and has some wonderful Ales and Beers, with some of the best names: Sunny Dai, Stormy Dai, Desperate Dai, and so on, and they are served in one of our favourite locals, the Teifi Waterside. More information 5. Dà Mhìle Distillery Just down the road in Llandysul is Glynhynod Farm, the home of the wonderful organic Dà Mhìle Distillery. They started out in 1981 by making raw milk Caws Teifi Cheese, then 10 years later branched out into making one of the first organic whiskies. This led on to Dark Skies Rum and Seaweed Gin, inspired by the history and surroundings of this area. Head to the farm shop, or attend one of their events if organic, artisan food and drink is right up your street. More information 6. Jin Talog Being organic, sustainable, and having as small an environmental footprint as possible is very important to these guys. They distil a high quality, hand-crafted gin using a closed system, then the spent juniper is composted; washing water is used to irrigate their fruit trees; all packing is bio-degradable, and the bottles are designed to look so beautiful that you'll want to use for other purposes after the gin is gone! More information |