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Getting ready for Christmas at Dolgoy Cottages

Yes, we said Christmas! We are already well into October, and the festive season will be upon us before we know it.

It’s a magical time of year here at Dolgoy, as we spruce up our cosy cottages with Christmassy decor to welcome our Winter guests. Each cottage also has its own luxury jacuzzi hot tub that’s available to use all year round.

When you’re not snuggled up at your home from home, you will find lots of activities in our local area to get you into the spirit!

Many of these take place in November and early December, so take a look below for inspiration.

Visit the Christmas Fair at Dinefwr

Date: 25th – 27th November, 10.00 am–4.30 pm
Location: Dinefwr Park, Newton House, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, SA19 6RT

Dinefwr Park is a beautiful National Trust location situated just 37 miles from Dolgoy Cottages. The historic Newton House is a perfect location for a Christmas Fair, and it’s a great place to begin the festivities!

The house will sparkle with Christmas decorations, and there will be mulled wine and hot chocolate to enjoy while listening to the carol singers, choirs and brass band.

Peruse the stalls to find wonderful gifts for your friends and family, including handmade jewellery, delicious preserves and much more.

When you’re done, why not take a Winter walk in the Deer Park?

Cardigan Castle Christmas Fair

Date: 25th November, 10:00-16:00
Location: Cardigan Castle, Cardigan, SA43 1JA

The annual Christmas Fair at Cardigan Castle is much-loved by the locals and is just 14 miles from Dolgoy Cottages – well worth a trip if you’re looking for special gifts and trinkets for your loved ones; as well as a great excuse to get into the festive spirit!

There will be over 40 craft stalls, plenty of delicious food, and mulled wine!

Christmas Craft Fair at Llanerchaeron

Date: 1st – 3rd December
Location: Ciliau Aeron, near Aberaeron, Ceredigion, SA48 8DG

Llanerchaeron is another National Trust treasure that is a must-visit attraction during the lead-up to Christmas. 

Just 13 miles from our dog-friendly holiday cottages in West Wales, it’s a quick trip for an afternoon of festive fun. There will be plenty of stalls selling Christmas gifts and locally sourced food with mulled wine, mince pies and live music to create a festive ambience. 

Once you’ve found the perfect presents, you can explore the property, which will be beautifully decorated, or take a stroll around the estate’s walled gardens, lake and woodlands. 

If you’re feeling creative, why not book a place at a Christmas Wreath Workshop, which runs between the 8th – 10th of December? Hosted by the estate’s Gardener, you can make a beautiful wreath for your front door using natural materials collected from the grounds. Find more information and book here.

Cardigan Giant Lantern Parade 

Date: 8th December, 7 pm.
Location: Cardigan 

Returning for 2023, the Small World Theatre will be creating a wonderful procession of Fantastical Beast-themed lanterns. All happening just a stone’s through away from our holiday cottages near Cardigan Bay.

The Giant Lantern Parade is a key event in Cardigan’s Christmas calendar, bringing hundreds of people together to join in the fun. This year, you will see giant, illuminated lanterns with many handheld lanterns twinkling throughout.

Luxury Cottages Decorated for Christmas

By the end of November, all of our cottages will be decorated for Christmas – perfect for early festivities, celebrating a December birthday, a cosy stay while you’re visiting local friends and family, or if you’re looking for a New Year lodge with a hot tub. 

We only decorated the inside of our cottages to preserve the dark nights – did you know we are in a fantastic stargazing location? December is one of the best months for a hot tub weekend break to enjoy the stars!

Visit our website to explore our luxury holiday cottages and check availability. 

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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)

Hidden in the secluded Welsh countryside, Galleri Cottage is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, mature families looking to enjoy quality time together, or friendship groups needing a relaxing destination for a reunion. Designed for adults, with babes in arms and guests aged 16 and over welcome.

This charming, dog-friendly cottage offers spacious living areas, ensuite bedrooms, a private Jacuzzi hot tub, and other modern amenities to create a home away from home. Peace, comfort and relaxation await you.

There is something for everyone during a stay at Galleri. Be at one with nature along the winding country lanes, wander the scenic coastal path, try exhilarating watersports, wine and dine at delicious bars and restaurants, or simply unwind at one of Cardigan Bay’s beautiful beaches.

Book directly with us to benefit from special offers, price match guarantee and flexible cancellation terms.

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

The open-plan living area is spacious, cosy and comfortable, promising a peaceful evening with your favourite people. The dual-aspect log burner will keep the cottage toasty while creating a rustic, homely ambience with contemporary convenience. We will lay the fire ready to light for your arrival, and supply logs for the duration of your stay.

Snuggle on the luxurious Ekornes stressless leather reclining sofas and relish in the company of your loved ones as the flames of the wood burner dance in the background. Pour a glass of your favourite wine, watch your favourite programme on the Smart TV, or simply catch-up without the interruptions of everyday life. 

Your private Jacuzzi hot tub is nestled in your secluded, sunken garden, and is available to use all year round. Lower yourself into the welcoming bubbles and feel any stresses or tension float away. Take a dip in the evening and experience the beautiful starry skies. 

Galleri is dog-friendly so your four-legged friend can come along with you. There are plenty of long walks to enjoy nearby and we have a large, communal paddock available to use during your stay.

What guests have said

Drink and dine together in the spacious living area

The kitchen is exceptionally well-equipped with everything you need, including an American fridge freezer and induction hob. Click below to discover our full list of amenities.

We highly recommend trying the delicious produce from Dolgoy’s local markets if you choose to enjoy homemade meals during your stay!

The large, oak table is perfect for dinner and will comfortably fit all four guests. 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 meal together.

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

The master bedroom features a king-size oak bed, promising a comfortable night’s sleep with its pocket-sprung, tufted mattress and topper for extra luxury. Soft, fluffy feather bedding ensures you stay warm and cosy.

The second bedroom offers flexibility, presenting either a super king-size bed or two singles, tailored to your preference. Please let us know at time of booking whether you require single beds – simply tick the box on the booking form to submit your preference.

Guests will enjoy the same plush mattress, feather bedding, and high-quality linens as the master bedroom.

Both bedrooms benefit from en-suite bathrooms for your convenience and privacy. Indulge in the spacious walk-in showers with your choice of rain or spray settings, and step onto the warmth of the heated tile floors for ultimate comfort.

Relax in a cosy corner and enjoy the tranquillity of Dolgoy

There is no better place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life than our secluded countryside location. 

Find a restful spot in the gallery or gently rock by the window as you catch up with your forgotten books or favourite podcast. 

Outside, you can immerse yourself in the peacefulness of your private, sunken garden featuring a living wall. Additional seating to the front of the cottage is perfect for soaking up the picturesque views across the pond with beautiful flowers and wildlife. It’s easy to feel at one with nature at Dolgoy Cottages.

Unwind in the private Jacuzzi 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, simply look above and see an endless stretch of twinkling stars – admiring the night skies from the hot tub is wonderful for mindfulness. 

Check availability for a luxury adults only holiday

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Holiday Cottages

Ponycob Cottage (Sleeps 4)

Nestled in the tranquillity of the Welsh countryside, Ponycob holiday cottage near Cardigan Bay is a quiet haven to rest, relax, and unwind – we are just one mile from the beautiful coastline as the crow flies and you can even see the horizon from our gates.

Treat your loved one to a romantic coastal escape, reconnect with family and spend quality time with lifelong friends. It’s the perfect spot for an adult-only holiday in the UK, with babes in arms and guests aged 16 and over welcome.

Ponycob oozes luxury, with two ensuite bedrooms, reclining leather sofas, warming log burners and a private Jacuzzi hot tub, amongst other contemporary amenities. We are also dog-friendly so you can enjoy a well-deserved break with your four-legged friend.

Your cosy cottage is a great place to explore the wonders of Ceredigion. Discover the nearby sandy beaches, hidden coves, seaside towns, farmers’ markets and the scenic coastal path – we even have sea views from our gates.

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 lodge with a private hot tub and peaceful surroundings

Ponycob has been beautifully converted, but its history whispers through the vaulted ceilings, traditional oak beams and the warmth of the solid oak floors.

The open-plan living area is spacious but wonderfully cosy, featuring luxury Ekornes reclining furniture and a Smart TV. The dual-aspect log burner will be laid to light for your arrival, with a basket of logs and firelighters to use during your stay – reconnect, entertain and relax with your much-loved family and friends while the warming embers flicker and glow as the night draws in. Plus, you can replenish your supply of logs, at no extra charge.

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 of our secluded retreat. Enjoy the novelty of this luxury pastime, as the bubbles and jets ease your muscles after a long walk along the coast. In the evening, take a dip and gaze at the thousands of stars twinkling in the velvet skies, undisturbed by light and noise.

What our guests say

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

Ponycob offers two beautifully appointed ensuite bedrooms for an adult-only holiday in the UK, each designed with your comfort in mind. The master bedroom features a luxurious king-size oak bed, draped in deluxe feather bedding and hotel-quality linens while the pocket-sprung and tufted mattress with a topper ensures a restful night’s sleep amongst our quiet surroundings.

The second bedroom can be set as a super king or two singles, depending on your preference – perfect if you’re holidaying with friends or siblings. Whatever your choice, the comfort of a plush feather duvet and a pocket-sprung and tufted mattress with a topper will be extra inviting after a day of exploring the beautiful countryside and coastline.

Both bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms for your privacy and convenience. Depending on your room, you will find a spacious walk-in shower or a shower over bath, both with the luxury of powerful water pressure. Each bathroom boasts underfloor heating for a warm and comfortable atmosphere throughout your stay.

Wine and dine with family & friends during an adults-only holiday in the UK

Step inside your luxury cottage and find a well-equipped kitchen, thoughtfully stocked with all the utensils, homeware and amenities you need to enjoy home-cooked meals during your stay. Visit one of the many farmers markets and delicatessens to experience some of Ceredigion’s finest local produce.

Delicious food is wonderful for bringing people together. Gather around the oak table which comfortably seats four, but can be extended to seat eight if you have friends or family staying at our neighbouring cottages.

A dog-friendly holiday cottage in Wales

This wonderful cottage on Wales’ coast has an enclosed garden that is accessible via steps from the bedroom or gate to the side. We also have a communal grassed paddock, where you can exercise your dog during your stay – take a stroll and enjoy a morning coffee at the picnic bench while your furry friend runs and plays.

Outdoor furniture invites you to relax and soak up the warm, Welsh coastal weather. Just a mile from the sea as the crow flies, you’ll catch glimpses of the coastline from the property too.

To the front, a peaceful terrace offers picturesque views of the pond and surrounding countryside—a tranquil spot to enjoy your morning coffee and a leisurely bite to eat.

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Holiday Cottages

Snuggle Cottage (Sleeps 2)

A romantic escape awaits you at Snuggle Cottage near the Welsh coast. As the crow flies, we are just one mile from the sea with a beautiful view of the horizon from our gates.

Relax and unwind in the tranquillity of the secluded countryside. Snuggle up by the log burner, share a magical moment in your private Jacuzzi hot tub and walk hand-in-hand along the charming beaches of Cardigan Bay. 

Reconnect at our adults-only retreat (welcoming babes in arms and guests aged 16+), safe from the interruptions of everyday life in the comfort of our luxury dog-friendly cottages in Wales.

There are plenty of places to visit with your special someone during your stay. From exploring the unspoiled coastline and dolphin spotting boat trips to enjoying food and cocktails at our local pubs, bars and eateries, or tasting experiences at award-winning distilleries.

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

Reconnect with your special someone at our luxury accommodation in Wales

Snuggle Cottage is the perfect blend of traditional charm and modern luxury. The well-equipped kitchen has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a Tassimo coffee machine, cookware and other contemporary amenities. Visit the nearby farm shops for delicious, locally sourced produce and return to Snuggle to prepare a delicious home-cooked meal for two. Enjoy it together at the intimate Pembroke table.

After dinner, relax on the luxurious Ekornes leather reclining sofa, where you can watch your favourite movie on the Smart TV or cosy up in the glow of the log burner. Watch the embers dim as you reminisce and lose yourselves in conversation. We’ll have the fire set and ready for you, with plenty of logs to keep it going throughout your stay. If you begin to run low, you can restock your basket at no extra cost.

What our guests have said

A cosy cottage on the Welsh Coast with a luxurious bedroom & en-suite

As the night draws in, step through the wooden doors and climb the hidden staircase to your romantic sanctuary where a plush, king-size bed awaits. We promise a peaceful night’s sleep with the pocket-sprung tufted mattress and topper, complete with feather bedding for ultimate comfort.

The en-suite bathroom boasts a large walk-in shower and underfloor heating, adding to the indulgence of your stay.Look out for bespoke soft furnishings throughout that we have thoughtfully designed to add the finishing touches to this luxury accommodation in Wales.

Book your stay at our adult only lodge with private hot tub

Outside, immerse yourselves in the peace of your enclosed patio garden, where a private Jacuzzi hot tub is yours to enjoy year-round. A peaceful cottage break with a hot tub is the perfect setting for romantic evenings spent under the stars. We are renowned for our dark skies here at Dolgoy – gaze at the canvas of twinkling constellations as the warm bubbles swirl around you.

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

A luxury dog-friendly cottage in Wales

Dogs are welcome at Snuggle Cottage so that you can bring your furry companion along for a cosy staycation. You will be gifted a welcome pack with bits and pieces to keep your dog safe and comfortable. We also have a large communal paddock available to exercise your furry friend – why not make yourself a warm cup of coffee and enjoy views of the valley while you play?

Check availability at Snuggle Cottage

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