Embark on a mesmerising road trip through West Wales, where the rugged coastline of Cardigan Bay meets towering castles and rolling inland hills. This carefully crafted 5-day itinerary loops from coastal gems to historic fortresses and serene countryside, with manageable drives, scenic stops and overnight bases in charming towns. Ideal for families or groups seeking adventure and relaxation, it showcases the best of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Ceredigion and beyond, all within easy reach of The Coach House at Glaneirw Estate.
Day 1: Arrival in Cardigan Bay and Coastal Exploration
Begin your journey in Cardigan, a historic harbour town on the edge of Cardigan Bay, known for its vibrant market and riverside walks. Pick up a hire car and head north along the Coastal Way, a 290 km route threading between sea and mountains. Your first stop is Aberporth, just 15 minutes away, with its sweeping beaches perfect for a morning stroll and dolphin-spotting opportunities offshore.
Continue 30 minutes to Tresaith, a secluded cove with cascading waterfalls meeting the sea—ideal for paddling or picnicking. By afternoon, drive 45 minutes to Aberaeron, a Georgian gem with colourful waterfront houses and ice cream parlours. Settle here for the night, enjoying fresh seafood in a harbourside pub. Total driving: about 1.5 hours.
- Pack binoculars for marine life along Cardigan Bay.
- Visit in summer for wildflower meadows.
Day 2: Castles and Ceredigion Coast
From Aberaeron, drive 1 hour north to Aberystwyth, a lively seaside town crowned by its ruined castle overlooking the promenade. Wander the Victorian pier and explore the National Library of Wales nearby. Then, head 30 minutes to Borth, famous for its ancient submerged forest revealed at low tide—a quirky natural wonder.
Push inland slightly for countryside charm: 45 minutes to the Hafod Estate, a romantic wooded valley with historic follies and trails. Return to the coast via Devil's Bridge (1 hour drive), where three bridges stack dramatically over a gorge—a must for photographers. Overnight in Aberystwyth or nearby, with total driving around 3 hours.
This day blends coastal breezes with verdant inland escapes, highlighting West Wales' diverse landscapes.
Day 3: Into Pembrokeshire—Cliffs and Hidden Coves
South from Aberystwyth, it's a scenic 1.5-hour drive via Cardigan to St Davids, Britain's smallest city and an ancient pilgrimage site. Visit the magnificent St Davids Cathedral and Bishop's Palace, nestled amid wild cliffs. From here, the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park unfolds with Britain's only coastal national park status.
Drive 20 minutes to Whitesands Bay for surfing or beachcombing, then 30 minutes to Tenby, a walled town with golden sands and pastel houses. Explore harbour boats and castle ruins. Stay in Tenby overnight. Total driving: 2.5 hours, leaving ample time for coastal path walks.
- Time your St Davids visit for evensong in the cathedral.
- Tenby's beaches are family favourites for rock pooling.
Day 4: Medieval Might—Castles and Countryside
Today focuses on West Wales' castle heritage. From Tenby, drive 30 minutes to Pembroke Castle, birthplace of King Henry VII, with its imposing keep and secret passages. Continue 45 minutes to Carew Castle, a fairy-tale ruin beside a tidal mill.
Venture inland 40 minutes to the Preseli Hills, source of the Stonehenge bluestones, for hiking amid prehistoric standing stones and heather moorlands. This countryside detour offers peaceful panoramas. Loop back to the coast (1 hour) for Newport, with its Iron Age fort and Parrog beach. Overnight in Newport or nearby. Total driving: 3 hours.
Day 5: Northern Highlights and Return via Harlech
Head north 1.5 hours to Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched dramatically on cliffs, offering sweeping Cardigan Bay views. Nearby, the fantasy village of Portmeirion (40 minutes drive) enchants with Italianate architecture and subtropical gardens.
Descend to the coast for Barmouth's vast sands and viaduct (30 minutes), then loop south. Return to Cardigan Bay base in 2 hours, perhaps stopping at Mwnt church atop cliffs. Total driving: 4.5 hours, with flexibility to shorten.
Essential Tips for Your Road Trip
West Wales roads are narrow and winding—drive cautiously, especially in rural areas. Fuel up in towns like Aberystwyth or Tenby. Check tide times for beaches and coves. Pack layers for changeable weather, and download offline maps for spotty signals. For families, many stops offer playgrounds and easy trails.
- Best time: spring for wildflowers, autumn for fewer crowds.
- Wildlife: watch for seals, dolphins and choughs.
- Explore more in our local area guide or itinerary ideas.
Related Reading
Dive deeper with The Complete Visitor Guide to West Wales for planning tips, or Best Places to Visit in West Wales for First-Time Visitors for must-sees. Short on time? See How to Spend a Weekend in West Wales.
Plan Your Stay
Return each evening to luxury at The Coach House, our 5-bedroom cottage on Glaneirw Estate sleeping up to 10, with spacious grounds perfect for unwinding after drives. Close to Cardigan Bay starts, it offers the ideal base. Contact us or browse The Courtyard and The Apartment for groups. Read more on our blog.