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!