Your Ultimate Campervan Road Trip Guide to Cardigan
Read Time: About 19 minutes
Mwnt, Cardigan. Nick Russill
Welcome to another exciting segment of our campervan road trip in West Wales. Today, we set our sights on the coastline, exploring the rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque villages of Cardigan Bay. Cardigan Bay, the next stop on our itinerary, is the largest bay on the Welsh Coast, extending from the towns of Aberystwyth to New Quay. Famed for its stunning coastal scenery, the broad sweep comprises several stunning smaller bays between the headlands of Pembrokeshire and the Llŷn Peninsula. Join us as we take our campervan and explore this lovely stretch of coastline, unwind at gorgeous Cardigan campsites, and find a range of top spots for a campervan hire cardigan. Check the link below for the complete itinerary for our road trip through West Wales.
Cardigan Bay is a hotspot for marine life, particularly populations of bottlenose dolphins. The bay is renowned as one of the best places in the UK to spot these fantastic creatures, and there are several means to see them up close. The area around Cardigan Bay boasts a rich history and is a history buffs haven. Crumbling castles, ancient sites, and historic towns are plentiful; the area is famed for its proud Welsh culture and language. Walkers are in for a treat with the Wales Coast Path, which runs along Cardigan Bay and is perfect for scenic walks and connecting to enchanting towns and villages. We’ll explore these attractions in detail below.
- Why is Cardigan Bay Famous?
- Does Cardigan Bay have a Beach?
- Cardigan Bay’s Coastal Settlements
- The Natural Habitats of Cardigan Bay
- Castles in Cardigan Bay
- Camping in and around Cardigan
- Cardigan Bay Camping Prices
- Best Campsites in Cardigan Bay
- Cardigan Bay Motorhome Sites
- Cardigan Campervan Price
- Campervan Hire Ceredigion
- Goodbye to Cardigan Bay
Why is Cardigan Bay Famous?
Natural attractions are the order of the day at one of the most beautiful coastlines in Wales. Cardigan Bay is rich in wildlife, and the Special Area of Conservation (SAC), extending almost 20 kilometres, protects the largest population of bottlenose dolphins. Take a guided boat tour from the Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (CBMWC).
In New Quay, and enjoy an informative tour with experienced guides who can provide a wealth of information about the dolphins and other marine wildlife you encounter. Plenty of great places to spot dolphins from the land also exist. The town of New Quay is a popular spot for dolphin watching. Head to the harbour or the promenade, and you’ll likely spot the dolphins as they often come close to the shore. Aberystwyth’s seafront offers some potential for spotting dolphins, and while it may not be as central as New Quay, the Marine Terrace or perhaps a walk along the shore provides excellent vantage points. The small village of Llangrannog on the coast south of New Quay also offers several fabulous vantage points, especially from the hills or the beach. Aberaeron is also a great place to watch Wales’s famous bottlenose dolphins.
North Lodge is an eco-friendly, sustainable site set out on an organic smallholding set in a remote, peaceful location within proximity to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
Cardigan Bay’s waters are ideal for angling, and our readers can charter a fishing boat from New Quay or Aberystwyth for an afternoon of reeling in mackerel, bass, and flatfish.
Walking enthusiasts can walk parts of the Wales Coast Path, which offers jaw-dropping views of the bay, cliffs, and enclosing countryside. Popular sections include those around Aberystwyth and New Quay. Follow the path to admire dramatic cliffs boasting breathtaking views over the ocean. You’ll pass by several beautiful sandy and pebble beaches, which are ideal for taking a break, admiring the views, and throwing down a blanket to enjoy a light meal from a well-stocked hamper. Visit during spring or summer to see the landscape come alive with an array of flora like sea thrift, pink valerian, and yellow gorse. Take a detour to explore the fortresses of Aberystwyth and Cardigan, which we will explore a little further in our blog. The scenic Ceredigion Coastal Path, stretching 60 miles along Cardigan Bay, is another fab route for our walking enthusiasts. The path snakes past secluded beaches while providing breathtaking views and the opportunity to spot wildlife like seals and seabirds.
Does Cardigan Bay have a Beach?
Cardigan Bay. Ajirv
Plenty of gorgeous beaches are perfect for lounging, beach games, hiking, picnicking, and watersports. The beautiful and secluded Mwnt Beach is a lovely spot for a quiet day out. The National Trust manages it and offers visitors an unspoilt location for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The nearby hill of Foel y Mwnt is a great viewpoint, and dolphins often frequent the area. The large and sandy Poppit Sands Beach, at the mouth of the River Teifi, is ideal for family picnics, beach sports, swimming, and kite surfing. The beach is backed by dunes and perfect for long walks. The sandy Llangrannog Beach boasts rock formations and cliffs and rests in a picturesque village. Families and beachgoers love surfing and bodyboarding when the waves are just right. There are several caves to explore at low tide, and the Ceredigion Coastal Path passes through the beach. Tresaith Beach is another sandy beach ideal for kayaking, swimming, sailing, and coastal walking. The sheltered shoreline boasts an unusual feature - a waterfall (Sarnau Falls) cascading from the cliffs, which adds a beautiful natural feature to an already stunning area. Visitors can walk to the waterfall at the edge of the beach. Check out Aberporth Beach, Penbryn Beach, Ynyslas Beach and New Quay Beach for more sandy shorelines. The coastlines in Borth and Aberystwyth offer a mix of sand and shingle and brim with open-air adventures for all ages.
Cardigan Bay’s Coastal Settlements
Explore the small, charming coastal settlements with oodles of scenic beauty, close-knit communities and a traditional way of life.
- Llangrannog sandwiched between cliffs with a sandy beach, is laid-back with quaint pubs, a fan beach ideal for swimming, and a stunning seemingly remote location with towering cliffs, beaches, and coastal paths.
- Known for its Georgian architecture and vibrant pastel-coloured houses, Aberaeron is a buzzing harbour town lined with fishing boats, an array of seafood restaurants, and a picture-postcard setting that makes it stand out from other coastal villages.
- New Quay, a lively traditional fishing village, provides visitors with nostalgic charm, boasting views of Cardigan Bay, and connections to the celebrated poet Dylan Thomas.
- Tresaith is famed for its majestic waterfall that flows directly into the ocean.
- Aberporth boasts two family-friendly beaches. If you prefer a quiet, secluded and natural feel.
- Head over to the beautiful village of Penbryn. It has a lovely white sand beach backed by woodlands and farmland.
- Llanon, famed for its traditional thatched cottages,
- Cwmtydu, an isolated village with a secluded cove and a top spot for watching seals,
Cambrian Coast Caravan Park is a fab caravan park tucked between imposing mountains and the gleaming sea.
The Natural Habitats of Cardigan Bay
The wealth of natural attractions does not end here. Head to Ynyslas Nature Reserve near Borth in Cardigan Bay and explore a varied landscape with abundant wildlife. It forms part of the much larger Dyfi National Nature Reserve and has plenty of natural attractions and activities for all ages. Ynyslas is best known for its extensive dunes, some of the largest of which are in Wales. The dunes create a rich habitat for varied plant and animal species. The reserve also included wetlands and marsh areas ideal for spotting bird species like curlews, oystercatchers, and lapwings. Insects like dragonflies and butterflies are common, especially in the warmer months. Soak in stunning views over the ocean and Cardigan Bay as you explore the reserve and follow several walking paths through the dunes and along the coast. Families can explore short sections of the trails and unwind in designated picnic areas, enjoying the natural surroundings while munching on snacks. A designated parking area is near the reserve's entrance, and basic facilities, including information boards, are available.
Castles in Cardigan Bay
There are plenty of historical and cultural attractions, too. Explore Cardigan Castle, which dates back to the 11th century, and stroll around the manicured gardens while enjoying insights into local history. The castle has a storied history and plays a significant role in Welsh and English history. Explore the meticulously restored areas of the fortress, like the central tower and the gatehouse, browse various exhibitions related to history and take relaxing strolls through the landscaped gardens and courtyards. The complex also includes St. Mary's Church, a peaceful spot for reflection, an on-site visitor centre with souvenirs, local produce and additional information about the castle's history. Cardigan Castle has limited on-site parking and additional public parking options nearby. Aberystwyth Castle is another prominent historical site to explore on your road trip to Cardigan Bay. The impressive fortress was built in the late 13th century by Edward I, and the castle was part of his campaign to conquer Wales. The elevated position of the ruin provides sweeping views over the town, the surrounding coastline and Cardigan Bay. Information boards around the site provide historical context and details about the castle's construction. The grassy castle grounds are ideal for walking and exploring. Aberystwyth Castle does not have a dedicated parking area directly on the grounds. However, several public car parks in Aberystwyth are within walking distance.
Cardigan is perfect for both heart-pumping adventure and quiet reflection, so go ahead and craft your own itinerary with our flexible guide and head out on a campervan adventure packed with scenic beauty, wildlife, and beachside stays.
Camping in and around Cardigan
Cardigan Bay. luke___photo
Our Cardigan campsites cater to all tastes and budgets. Park your campervan in full ocean view at a fab seaside holiday park, pitch a tent at a no-frills location and enjoy crackling campfires with the ocean lulling you to sleep at night. Glampers can browse through the wealth of campsites in Cardigan and find the perfect home away from home, complete with a range of excellent amenities ranging from bubbling hot tubs to decked-out tipis with heating. Remember to browse our full list of Campsites Wales too. The towns and villages we recommend checking out within Cardigan are Aberporth, Tanygroes, and Tresaith. Aberporth is well-known for its scenery and wildlife, while Tanygroes is a lush location perfect for escaping the rush of city life. Tresaith has a range of scenic coastal areas and a gorgeous beach. We’ll explore the attractions at each campsite location below. If you're travelling along Cardigan Bay and thinking of heading inland next, don’t miss the scenic campsites in Brecon. Visit our campsites page for more campsites in UK.
Remember that you can filter our campsites by accommodation preference. Click on the icon of choice, e.g., tent or campervan, at the top of the page and sit back as our system does the hard work. If you have a campsite in mind, just type in the name or use our search engine to add a town, or village.
Ceredigion is a great base to rest your head after exciting days of sightseeing and adventure along the coastline of Cardigan Bay. When you book a campsite in Ceredigion, you're typically around 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km) from the coast, making it a convenient base to explore the ba's natural beauty and long list of attractions. The county boasts a range of beautiful, unspoiled landscapes ranging from rolling hills and picturesque valleys to stunning coastal cliffs and sandy beaches. This wealth of diversity provides an array of camping experiences, with access to renowned attractions like the Ceredigion Coastal Path, attractive beaches like Aberporth, New Quay, and Tresaith, and verdant nature reserves brimming with flora and fauna. Don't forget the intriguing historical and cultural attractions, like castles and abbeys, plus charming villages like Aberaeron. Many campsites in Ceredigion are tucked in tranquil rural or coastal areas, creating a peaceful base to unwind and rest tired feet.
Wake up to stunning vistas of the Teifi Valley, and enjoy the warm hospitality of owner Gordon at Capel Tygwydd Camping and Caravans.
The relaxed village of Aberporth is small yet holds an extraordinary wealth of stunning sceneries and activities. When you book a campsite in Aberporth, you can access two sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. A sheltered location makes it an ideal spot for family-friendly days out. Hop on the scenic Ceredigion Coastal Path to admire beautiful coastal vistas and spot wildlife in the water and on land. The relaxed atmosphere of the village sets the tone for your holiday and makes it a great space for kicking back and unplugging from the world. Aberporth has a range of shops, cafes and pubs, making it easy to sort meals and stock up on camping essentials when needed. The village is around 2 miles (3 km) from Cardigan Bay, affording effortless access to shimmering waters and coastal adventures. Our Aberporth campsite locations include campsites in Llangrannog, campsites in Plwmp and campsites in Newcastle Emlyn.
Cardigan Bay Photographybynev
Look forward to quiet campsite escapes at Tanygroes, a peaceful location in a countryside setting ideal for enjoying nature. The settlement is close to Aberporth, with its beautiful beaches, ideal for swimming and picnics, located a short drive away. The village is also near the Ceredigion Coastal Path, well-positioned for exploring nearby attractions like the Welsh Wildlife Centre and Cilgerran Castle. Look at our campsites in Tanygroes - 191 campsites within 30 miles of Tanygroes, to be exact, and find a beautiful home away from home for our road trip to Cardigan Bay. Our top campsite locations include campsites in Troedyraur, campsites in Penbryn and campsites in Sarnau.
The quiet village of Tresaith rests within a beautiful coastal landscape, including cliffs, natural reserves, and stunning areas perfect for wildlife watching. The settlement is renowned for its gorgeous beach with a waterfall cascading onto the sand, creating a spectacular setting for nature lovers. Take a day to explore the beach from your campsite in Tresaith and spot dolphins, seals, and other marine life in the waters. The peaceful village is often overlooked, creating a tranquil retreat with fewer crowds and abundant nature. You’re certain to find a campsite that works for you from our selection of 172 campsites within 30 miles of Tresaith. Our Tanygroes campsite locations include campsites in Parcllyn, campsites in Blaenannerch, campsites in Penparc and campsites in Y Ferwig.
Cardigan Bay Camping Prices
Diverse landscapes, well-reputed walking paths, beautiful beaches, historical sites, and more wildlife than you can shake a stick at make camping in Cardigan Bay a delight for nature lovers, outdoorsy types and anyone keen to take a well-deserved break from the modern world. The price of a holiday at a campsite will depend on various factors, so consider the following when booking.
1. Proximity to Attractions: Campsites near popular tourist spots or easily accessible locations in the cities may be more expensive than remote sites.
2. Season of Booking: rates are usually higher during the summer months, public holidays and school holidays, while off-peak seasons like fall or winter are considerably cheaper.
3. Type of Campsite: No-frills campsites with minimal facilities are generally less expensive than those with premium features like pools and other luxury amenities. Glamping abodes, such as camping pods and tents, are also costlier than traditional pitches.
We recommend booking well in advance to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability. Understanding these factors can help you find the best Cardigan Bay campsite prices for your budget and needs.
Best Campsites in Cardigan Bay
We have selected three beautiful campsites in Cardigan Bay to help ease the stress of planning a holiday. We recommend staying at Cardigan Caravan and Campsite, Ty Gwyn Caravan Park, and Blaenwaun Caravan Park. Cardigan Caravan and Campsite are ideal for exploring the Teifi estuary, while Ty Gwyn Caravan Park is a short distance from the beautiful Mwnt beach. Blaenwaun Caravan Park boasts jaw-dropping views over Cardigan Bay. We write more about these campsites in detail below.
Cardigan Caravan and Campsite, Cardigan
Cardigan Caravan and Campsite is a charming retreat just a stone's throw from the Teifi estuary, a mile away, and within easy reach of the stunning Cardigan Bay. The campsite is tucked in picturesque surroundings, rests on the borders of Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire, and enjoys glorious views over patchwork countryside leading to the glittering ocean. The site provides a range of facilities including well-maintained pitches, modern showers, serviced gravel pitches and grass bases, a communal fridge/freezer, and clean restrooms. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views of the Welsh countryside, and when you're ready for adventure, head out to discover this beautiful part of Wales. Big hitters like historic Cardigan Castle and the scenic Ceredigion Coastal Path are nearby, plus Cardigan Bay is just about 2 miles away.
Ty Gwyn Caravan Park, Cardigan
Hidden in the scenic countryside of Cardigan, Ty Gwyn Caravan Park is a tranquil camping location, a leisurely 10-minute stroll from Mwnt Beach, which has a lovely cafe. Hopp on the coastal path to reach the beach on foot and easily explore the local areas. Campers have often seen dolphins and seals from their pitches, so book early to secure a beautiful pitch overlooking the ocean. The site offers well-maintained facilities, including modern shower blocks, a washing-up area, 6 amp electric hookups, and spacious pitches for caravans and tents. Enjoy peaceful evenings in picturesque surroundings and enjoy gorgeous sunsets. Just a short drive away, the stunning beaches of Cardigan Bay are within 4 miles, perfect for romantic walks or dolphin spotting.
Blaenwaun Caravan Park, Pembrokeshire
Blaenwaun Farm is a serene mid-Wales coastal camping space, a short stroll from Mwnt Beach and many local attractions. Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Cardigan, the campsite rests on an organic beef and arable farm, a 15-minute drive from Cardigan. This idyllic site features spacious pitches with access to modern amenities, including clean showers, toilets, electric hookups, and a basic kitchen with a kettle, fridge, microwave, etc. Guests can also stroll from the pitch to the well-stocked shop selling eggs, bread, milk and organic beef - perfect for quiet evenings around a campfire or a barbecue. Surrounding the campsite are famous attractions like the Ceredigion Coastal Path and the charming village of Aberporth, which are perfect for scenic walks. Just a short drive away, Cardigan Bay has stunning beaches, which are ideal for relaxing by the gleaming ocean or exploring local marine life.
Cardigan Bay Motorhome Sites
Park your motorhome at Nant-y-Croi, a spacious farm site by the coastline. Fill your days with coastal walks, crowd-free beaches, and castles at this cracking site near the Ceredigion Coast Path. The site is a 20-minute walk from Mwnt Beach and under a 25-minute drive from the shores of Poppit Sands (25 minutes), Tresaith (20 minutes drive), and Aberporth (20 minutes), with Llangrannog an easy 30 minutes away. Pitches for tents, small campervans, motorhomes and caravans are on grass with the option of eclectic metres. Standard amenities include showers, a toilet block, a washing-up area, a launderette, and the freedom to enjoy barbecues on your pitch.
Marvel at the ocean's many moods in Cardigan Bay whilst unwinding on a lovely elevated spot overlooking a rolling patchwork of the countryside that leads down to the sea.
The award-winning site of Cenarth Falls Resort is another excellent site for motorhome escapes and rests in the quiet village of Cenarth, an easy 15-minute drive from the coastline. A stunning waterfall is a 10-minute stroll away, and the nearby Teifi River is a lovely place for walking and a spot of angling. Cardigan is a short drive away, and the Preseli Hills plus Cilgerran Castle are an easy 15-minute drive away. If you’re travelling with the kids, visit Oakwood Theme Park, 45 minutes away. Pitch a tent or park your touring vehicle on an electric hardstanding pitch and enjoy access to tip-top amenities, including an on-site spa, a bar and restaurant, hot tubs, swimming pools, a play area and more.
Cardigan Campervan Price
Perhaps you’re starting your West Wales road trip in Cardigan or want to look at our campervans for hire in Wales. We have a range of fab campervan options with various features and comforts. Our campervans in Cardigan start at £75 a night and come in assorted makes ranging from the classic VW T2s to the more modern conversion with pop-top roofs and fridges. The prices for your campervan hire will vary depending on the season of hire, the size plus capacity of the camper, and the length of the hire period. Longer bookings often come with convenient discounts on the daily rates, while peak season travel like the summer holidays, school breaks and bank weekends tend to be higher as there is more demand for a camper. Some private owners also offer unlimited mileage, which is handy for long road trips, while other rentals may offer a lower rate with a strict cap on the number of miles you can drive before charging fees for excess mileage. Most of our campervan owners include basic insurance options; however, the level of coverage can influence the overall hire fee. We recommend sending out a few inquiries to ensure you nab the most cost-effective campervan rental in Cardigan Bay.
Campervan Hire Ceredigion
Cardigan Bay. Itsbazzm
The coastal county of Ceredigion brims with natural beauty, historical attractions, and a wealth of open-air adventures. When you hire a campervan in Ceredigion, you're a short drive from an array of stunning beaches, like Aberporth and Tresaith, hotspots for watersports and observing frolicking bottlenose dolphins in the glittering ocean. Hop on the Ceredigion Coastal Path or tour charming historic attractions like Strata Florida Abbey and the lovely Aberystwyth Castle. Nature lovers can plonk by the coastline, admire jagged cliffs or dunes backed by woodland, or head out to observe local wildlife at Cors Caron Nature Reserve. Explore the thrills of Ceredigion in your campervan rental and leave the world's stress behind. For those wanting to combine coastal exploration with mountain adventures, campervan hire Brecon offers the perfect base to experience both Cardigan Bay's shores and the dramatic peaks inland.
Drop a message to our owners, and remember that when you hire a campervan in Penbryn, you’re mere minutes from a stunning sandy beach. Our Sarnau campervans are ideal for readers who enjoy a rural location near the coast, while Llangoedmor campervans are perfect for wildlife adventures. Read on for a list of attractions from your campervan hire location, plus a list of campervan hire towns nearby.
Use the search engine to filter campervans by postcode, town, or county. You can also use the map to browse campervans by county or country or let the system find the best campervan hire options using your current location.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Blue Sky our brand newly converted Transporter is up for hire. She is well kitted out with everything you need.
The picturesque village of Penbryn is famed for its unspoiled beach, which is owned and managed by the National Trust. The expansive sandy shoreline is enclosed by woodlands and farmland, creating a wonderful setting for campervan drives or lazy days by the ocean. Wind away from the coastline to embark on scenic woodland walks and follow a section of the Ceredigion Coastal Path, eyeing sweeping views of Cardigan Bay. We recommend taking your Penbryn campervan to Saint Michael's Church in the village to infuse your holiday with a generous slice of history. Penbryn is about 7 miles (11 km) northeast of Cardigan Bay, making it a great base to kick start your road trip in Cardigan Bay. You can also find more campervans for hire in Blaenannerch, campervans for hire in Llangrannog, campervans for hire in Tanygroes.
If you enjoy lush countryside settings and quick drives to the coastline, you’ll find our campervans in Sarnau an ideal option for beach days and rural capers. The small village of Sarnau is laid back and pretty, providing a welcome break from the buzz and activity at Cardigan Bay, just 3 miles (5 km) away. The site is ideal for enjoying coastal walks and stunning views at Ceredigion Coastal Path, which is a quick drive from beautiful beaches like Tresaith and Penbryn. If you seek tranquillity, views, and fast access to local attractions, drop our private owners in Sarnau a message with your dates. We also recommend taking a peek at nearby towns for campervan hires in Tresaith, campervan hires in Plwmp and campervan hires in Newquay.
The sleepy village of Llangoedmor is a charming place to hire a campervan, resting in serene rural settings approximately 5 miles (8 km) from Cardigan Bay. Hire a campervan in Llangoedmor and make it your base for exploring the coastal attractions of the region, like the Welsh Wildlife Centre, located in nearby Cilgerran. The centre features abundant wildlife, snaking nature trails, gorgeous wildlife observation areas, and educational exhibits ideal for families. Soak in panoramic views of the Teifi Gorge and embrace a mediaeval atmosphere at Cilgerran Castle, or swap the ruins for more walking and birdwatching at Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve. With over 42 campervans and motorhomes within 120 miles of Llangoedmor, you’ll have a wealth of hire options at your fingertips. Our campervan hire locations in Llangoedmor include campervans for hire in Aberporth, campervans for hire in Boncath, and campervans for hire in Newcastle Emlyn.
Age: 25-70
Travel: Uk and Europe
Gearbox: Manual
Our striking Coco VW Crafter Motorhome resides within the captivating landscapes of Monmouth - a stunning location to start your adventure.
Goodbye to Cardigan Bay
And that wraps up our time in Cardigan Bay. We hope you found our campsite recommendations and campervan hire towns helpful in planning your road trip to Cardigan Bay. Remember that our itineraries are incredibly flexible and easy to stretch out over a few weeks or compact into a weekend or bank holiday escape. Come around the same time next week as we head to another fantastic location on our A Complete Itinerary for a Road Trip Through West Wales - the Wales Coastal Path in Aberystwyth.
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