Nr New Quay

The rolling hills above New Quay drop down to one of Wales's most unspoilt stretches of Cardigan Bay coastline. This working fishing town keeps its authenticity while the holiday crowds flock to bigger resorts - meaning you get proper Welsh character without the circus.

New Quay's harbour still lands crab and lobster daily. The town spreads up from the waterfront in terraced rows, with independent shops and cafés that locals actually use. Dolphin-watching trips leave regularly from the harbour - Cardigan Bay has some of Britain's best marine life, including grey seals and porpoises.

The coastal path here is properly spectacular. Walking south takes you past secluded coves and the atmospheric ruins of old lime kilns built into the cliffs. North leads to Aberaeron with its Georgian houses painted in seaside pastels - about 8 miles if you fancy the full trek.

Inland, the countryside opens into typical mid-Wales farmland. Holy Trinity at Mydroilyn sits in peaceful isolation, worth the detour for its medieval stonework and valley views. The church feels wonderfully remote despite being just a few miles from the coast.

Getting here means the A487 from either Aberystwyth (20 miles north) or Cardigan (15 miles south). No rail connection, so it's car or bus. Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense - you're close enough for evening harbour walks but far enough out to enjoy the countryside. The coast here rewards a few days' proper exploration rather than a quick day trip.