Holiday rentals in Cardigan

The town of Cardigan in the county of Ceredigion is as remote as it is charming. A quiet walking path along the banks of the River (Afon) Teifi leads into town, where you’ll be greeted by the sounds of merchants selling their wares in the covered Guildhall Market, the aroma of locally caught seafood dishes wafting from family-owned restaurants, and the sight of the restored 12th-century Cardigan Castle.

Not only does Cardigan offer plenty of historic charm, nature enthusiasts will enjoy the 70-mile-long River Teifi Trail, which leads through richly biodiverse marshes and wetlands. At the end of the trail, the Welsh Wildlife Centre reserve is home to water buffalo as well as otters, peregrine falcons, and numerous bird species.

Thanks to its proximity to the Irish Sea, Cardigan rarely experiences heat waves or freezing temperatures. However, October to March see considerably more rain than in the spring and summer. To capitalise on warm, sunny days, most of Cardigan’s outdoor events are scheduled for the spring and summer. One of the biggest is the Cardigan River and Food Festival in August, where people from all over the region show up for a rubber duck race, a best-dressed-boat competition, and delicious food. On the last Saturday in April, as seasonal rains ease, Barley Saturday takes over the town for a day with a parade and displays of classic tractors and vintage vehicles. A light jacket should be enough to keep you warm in the spring, but packing a waterproof layer is always a good idea in Wales.

Mwnt Beach

Around a 15-minute drive from town, Mwnt is home to a sheltered, sandy beach sandwiched between lush green hills and towering cliffs. One of the best places in Wales to spot dolphins, the beach can be reached via a set of steep steps, or you can take the scenic route via the Wales Coast Path. The climb up to Foel y Mwnt is rewarded with views stretching as far as Snowdonia on a clear day.

Cardigan Trail

Take in Cardigan’s appealing blend of historical and contemporary attractions by following the Cardigan Trail around town. Pick up a map at the information centre and wander around the historic stone Cardigan Bridge, the modern Gothic covered Guildhall Market, and the Theatr Mwldan arts and culture centre, in addition to other sites of note. Drop into a couple of the crafts and artisanal food shops while en route, and you’ll end up with lunch as well as gifts to bring home.

Cardigan Bay

Ceredigion’s waterways are a rich environment for marine life, from the Teifi Estuary near town, where the saltwater of the Irish Sea mixes with the freshwater of the Teifi, to the swirling waves off the coast. Head to nearby Poppit Sands or Gwbert by bike, car, or on foot for a guided wildlife tour, where you can look out for bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises, Atlantic grey seals, and a variety of seabirds.