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One of the best things about a winter break at Trenewydd Farm is how easy it is to wrap up warm, head for the coast, and enjoy West Wales at its most peaceful. Fewer people, dramatic skies, fresh sea air - and, just as importantly, somewhere cosy to head afterwards for a hot drink or a hearty lunch. Here are a few of our favourite winter coastal walks near Trenewydd Farm, all with a welcoming pub or café stop to finish on a high note. Mwnt Beach & Headland Walk
Why it’s perfect in winter: Mwnt is stunning all year round, but in winter it really comes into its own. The headland walk gives big views across Cardigan Bay and is one of the best places locally for spotting dolphins from the shore on a clear day. Dogs are welcome on the beach from October to April. The walk: Park near Mwnt church and follow the coastal path up onto the headland. It’s a relatively short walk but with enough of a climb to feel like you’ve earned your lunch afterwards. Afterwards – warm up here: In Cardigan town, try Crwst for artisan sourdough toasties and rich coffee. Or choose Nook & Noble Cafe or The Priory Restaurant for a hearty brunch. Ceibwr Bay & the Teifi Cliffs Why it’s perfect in winter: This stretch of coastline feels wonderfully rugged, especially in the colder months. The cliffs around Ceibwr Bay offer dramatic views and plenty of birdlife. The walk: Start at the Ceibwr Bay car park and take the coastal path north or south depending on how far you want to go. Even a short section gives you a real sense of the wild Welsh coast. Afterwards – warm up here: Head into Newport (a short drive) for views and refreshments at the Cat Rock Café overlooking Newport Sands, known for great coffee and scenic seating. Alternatively, pop into Cardigan and choose from local favourites like Castle Cafe or Finch Station Shop & Cafe for warming soups and cakes. Welsh Wildlife Centre & Teifi Marshes Why it’s perfect in winter: This is a great walk if you’re after nature and wildlife even closer to home. The paths around the Teifi Marshes are perfect for spotting wintering birds and other wildlife, and they’re well maintained for a quieter coastal walk that’s ideal on chilly days. The walk: Set off from the Welsh Wildlife Centre and explore the marshland trails. You’ll find hides and viewing points, making it ideal for both keen birdwatchers and casual winter walkers. Afterwards – warm up here: Enjoy a wholesome lunch or hot drink at The Glasshouse Café at the Welsh Wildlife Centre itself. They serve handmade soups, filled paninis, freshly brewed coffee, and homemade cakes. Welsh Wildlife Poppit Sands & Estuary Path Why it’s perfect in winter: Poppit Sands is beautifully open and peaceful in winter, with wide skies and long views across the Teifi Estuary. It’s flatter than some coastal walks, making it great for a gentler wander. The walk: Walk along the beach and estuary paths, taking in the changing light and birdlife. Winter is a brilliant time for spotting wading birds along the estuary. Afterwards – warm up here: Stop at Crwst Poppit for a hot drink, cake, or seasonal treats right by the beach. For a full pub lunch with views over the river, try The Ferry Inn in St Dogmaels. White Hart Community Inn is another cosy local inn just a short stroll away. Tips for Winter Coastal Walking
After a day of fresh air and coastal views, there’s nothing better than heading back to your cosy cottage at Trenewydd Farm, with the hot tub and a relaxed evening ahead. There’s something magical about watching the sun dip into the sea at the end of a summer's day. For families staying at Trenewydd, a sunset isn’t just a beautiful view, it’s a chance to pause, breathe, and make memories together. Whether it’s a sandy-toed scramble down to the beach, or a short stroll up a coastal path, here are some of our favourite sunset spots nearby that never fail to impress. Poppit Sands – Wide Horizons & Shallow Shores Just a few minutes from Trenewydd, Poppit Sands is a classic for good reason. With its wide-open beach, gentle shallows, and endless sky, there’s plenty of space for children (and dogs) to run around while the sun melts into the horizon. Pack a blanket and a few snacks, and you’ve got an easy, fuss-free family evening out. Mwnt – Clifftop Views & Dolphin Spotting A short drive away, Mwnt offers one of the best vantage points for sunsets in West Wales. Climb the headland above the little white chapel and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping coastal views. Families often spot dolphins playing in the bay below as the sky turns orange and pink—an unforgettable experience for little ones. Aberporth – Ice Cream & Evening Light If your family likes to end the day with a treat, head to Aberporth. Two sheltered sandy beaches are perfect for a paddle, and you can grab an ice cream before finding a spot on the promenade to watch the colours change. It’s a quieter alternative to busier beaches, and the calm waters are especially good for younger children. Penbryn – Woodland Walk to Golden Sands For something a bit different, take the short woodland path down to Penbryn Beach. The walk itself feels like an adventure, and the reward is a golden sandy stretch that faces west—ideal for watching the sunset. With cliffs framing the beach on either side, it feels like your own private theatre for nature’s nightly show. Back at the Cottage – Hot Tub Stargazing Of course, sometimes the best sunset spot is right at Trenewydd. Many of our cottages have private enclosed gardens with hot tubs, making it easy to slip into the warm bubbles just as the sky deepens into twilight. After the sun dips, stick around—our rural location means you’ll often get a stunning star-filled sky as a bonus. A Simple, Memorable Ending to the Day
Whether you choose clifftop views, sandy beaches, or the comfort of your own cottage garden, watching the sunset together is one of those small, timeless joys. It doesn’t take much planning, but it leaves you with the kind of memories that stay long after the holiday is over. If you've ever looked up at the night sky and been amazed by a sky full of stars, then Pembrokeshire is the place to be - especially during Welsh Dark Skies Week 2025. Running from Friday, 21st February to Sunday, 2nd March, this week-long celebration is the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty of the night sky, free from light pollution. Here at Trenewydd Farm Holiday Cottages, we're lucky to be just over 2 miles from Poppit Sands, one of Pembrokeshire's Dark Sky Discovery Sites. Whether you're a keen stargazer or just fancy a peaceful evening under the stars, this is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy the wonders above. Why Poppit Sands is Perfect for Stargazing
Poppit Sands is not just a stunning beach during the day - it's also one of the best places in the area to see the night sky in all its glory. As an official Dark Sky Discovery Site, it offers minimal light pollution and wide, open views, making it ideal for spotting constellations, the Milky Way, and even the occasional meteor shower. The nearby car park makes it easy to access, and there are often local stargazing events held there. Even if you're just heading down with a blanket and a flask of hot chocolate, it's a magical experience to see the sky lit up with thousands of stars. What is Welsh Dark Skies Week? Welsh Dark Skies Week is an annual celebration that highlights Wales's incredible dark sky locations. It's a chance to learn more about the importance of preserving our night skies and to take part in some brilliant events, including guided stargazing sessions, talks on astronomy and wildlife, and even astrophotography workshops. Pembrokeshire is one of the best places in the UK for stargazing, with the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park being a Designated Dark Sky Area. Events will be taking place across Wales, but staying with us at Trenewydd Farm gives you easy access to the best spots right here in West Wales. Why Dark Skies Matter Protecting our dark skies isn't just about enjoying the view - it's also important for wildlife. Many species, from birds to bats and insects, rely on natural darkness for their sleep patterns, feeding habits, and migration routes. Artificial light can disrupt these patterns, which is why reducing light pollution is so crucial. By visiting a Dark Sky area like Poppit Sands, you're helping to support conservation efforts while also experiencing something truly special. Stay with Us and Experience the Magic of the Night Sky After an evening of stargazing, there's nothing better than heading back to a warm, cosy cottage. At Trenewydd Farm Holiday Cottages, we offer comfortable self-catering accommodation in the heart of the Pembrokeshire countryside, just a short drive from Poppit Sands and other fantastic dark sky locations. Our cottages provide a peaceful retreat, whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family break, or a relaxing holiday with friends. And during Welsh Dark Skies Week, you'll have the perfect excuse to get outside and experience something truly unforgettable. It's well known that gorgeous West Wales is truly beautiful and many of its treasures are well known to travellers who holiday in this part of the country. But what else is there? Where are those precious hidden gems that you have to be 'in the know' to know about? Want the inside scoop? Look no further.
This journey is a symphony of nature, culture, and tranquillity so lace up your boots, breathe in the sea air, and let the path enchant you with its coastal magic. Walking a stretch of the stunning Wales Coastal path is a highlight of any holiday here at Trenewydd Farm and although parts of it can be quite challenging, the absolutely outstanding view will soothe any aching limbs or sore feet. The stretch from Newport Sands to Ceibwr Bay is glorious, and getting a lift to Newport and walking back is a great way to do it (there are local taxis available, or we'll give lifts if we can). Make sure you have water and refreshments with you as you head up from the car park at Newport, as there is nowhere to stop once you're underway. As the path unfolds, it reveals panoramic views of Newport Sands so make sure to look back as you climb the cliffs - as you can see, even on a lovely blue-sky day, the sandy Pembrokeshire beaches are not at all crowded. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, a perfect backdrop for a peaceful picnic. Some of the highest cliffs in Pembrokeshire are along this stretch so it really does have the best views. Keep an eye out for dolphins, grey atlantic seals, and seabirds.
A highlight of this walk is when you arrive at Pwll y Wrach, or Witches Cauldron, close to the finish at Ceibwr Bay. This is a chasm in the and the water is a vibrant green. You can take a dip in the sea here, but do watch out for seal pups around September time. cliff formed by a collapsed cave, formed along a fault where the sea has gradually eroded the sandstones and shale. Ceibwr Bay was once the port which served nearby Moylegrove village and the surrounding area, and you'll see the remains of a ruined lime kiln here too. There is a lovely stone bridge you can sit and rest on, and shallow water for paddling or just taking off your shoes and socks to cool your feet. Follow the path up to Penrallt Garden Centre where you can either get picked up, or walk back to Trenewydd from there. Once back, have a refreshing dip in the pool then jump in your hot tub for a well deserved relax! You might see people from a local company such as Cardigan Bay Active kayaking or coasteering along this section, but that's an adventure for another day! 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 goal here at Trenewydd Farm is simple; we aim to make your stay with us as enjoyable, relaxing, and fun as possible. We have various activities on site: our swimming pool, FootGolf course, Slot Car Shack, games field, table tennis, and giant outdoor chess, jenga and connect4.... However, we understand that you still might like to explore the area! Of course, there are the gorgeous sandy beaches, stunning walks, quirky towns, boat trips, and all the activities on offer from companies such as Cardigan Bay Active, or Adventure Beyond. But if you don't have much time with us, or you want a relaxed day, you might want to go for one of the very nearest attractions. 1. Castell Henllys (11 minutes)
Our guests always rave about a visit to this Iron Age Village. The fort was reconstructed on its original foundations, and is a fascinating look at how life would have been. There's also plenty of wildlife to look out for, walks though woodland and alongside the river, and also a Barefoot Trail. Website 2. Cardigan Island Coastal Farm Park (15 minutes) A great opportunity to take a stroll along the cliff top overlooking Cardigan Island and enjoy those stunning coastal views. Look carefully out to sea, and you may be lucky enough to see Atlantic grey seals, or bottlenose dolphins. There are plenty of farm animals which you can wander around and see, and even feed them if you want to, including sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys, rabbits, and also alpacas. There's a play area and café too, so you can relax before and after your cliff top walk. Website 3. The Welsh Wildlife Centre (14 minutes) A wonderful place to visit, either to walking or cycle, with tidal mudbanks and reedbeds, and you'll find pasture, woodland, and freshwater marsh. This is one of the best wetland sites in Wales, where'll you see all kinds of wildlife such as kingfishers, marsh harriers, mallards, sika deer, and even water buffalo. If you want to venture further, why not take a walk along the boardwalk into Cardigan town. Or pick up some refreshments from the Glasshouse Café and sit and enjoy the view across the Teifi Estuary. Website 4. Heritage Canoes (14 minutes) A lovely, safe, and easy way to take to the water, suitable for all ages and abilities. Canoeing in the Teifi gorge is a wonderful adventure, and a chance to see plenty of native wildlife, even an otter or two. Website You may find these other websites helpful: - Things to do in Cardigan - Visit Cardigan - Visit Pembrokeshire A wonderful sandy beach stretching as far as the eye can see is about the best thing in the world. And the best thing about it is that the magic works year-round. A fantastic place on a gorgeous sunny day, sure, but also unbeatable on a chilly winter's day with that glorious azure blue sky. We're absolutely spoilt for choice along this stunning, world-renowned coastline, with sandy cove after sandy cove. Many are dog friendly (restrictions vary at different times of year) and they are minutes away from Trenewydd Farm. Cardigan Bay has the largest population of dolphins in Europe, so it's always worth having a look from any cliff top to see what you can see. Our 7 Closest Beaches
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