My husband's family used to have a caravan between the villages of Newport and Nevern on the Pembrokeshire coast in the 1970's. I was more than thrilled when he introduced me to the place eight years ago when we moved from New York to the UK. We have been going back ever since.
Our latest visit over the Easter break started by packing our now 11 year-old rescue mutt, Ellie, into the back of our car along with her rations and other doggie paraphernalia. After a three hour drive from our home in Cheltenham, we arrived armed with our hiking gear.
We spent the next three days taking long walks atop the coastal cliffs and trundling through the river valley under the cool canopy of the forest. The weather was good enough to let the pooch out for a big open run on the beach whilst we caught some sun. With big appetites at the end of the day, we settled in at some great local & dog friendly pubs for delicious grub.
Here's some favourites from the trip! Click the links to take you to the sites.
Where to Stay
Penybont, Cilgwyn, Newport, SA42 0QW | Tel: 01239 820840
Perhaps the most charming aspect of this B&B is it's owner, Mary who takes a keen interest in all of her guests. We could literally talk with her for hours. The B&B itself must have been some outbuilding in it's day but now it's Mary's cozy home.
We stay in the private part of the house which has its own entrance, an en suite, bedroom, living room, and my favourite - a log burner which throws out some serious heat on chilly evenings. I have contentedly passed out on the couch in front of the fire many times! The property also has a brook running through it and backs up onto a hillside farm. On this visit, we were greeted each morning with the baaaa-ing of spring lambs.
If you are after a peaceful, relaxed cottage retreat, then this is the place...
Walks
Whether you want to walk a half mile or 20 miles, there is a walk for you. Click the link above to get your game plan together. I particularly love:
Nevern & Llwyngwair Manor Time: 1 Hour
Park your car in the village of Nevern and follow the sign-posted path through the lush forest, across fields and through the river valley. End at Llwyngwair Manor and return via the alternative route.
Newport Beach
Time: As Long as you want.
This walk begins on the beach in the village of Newport. Take the trail to the left which will take you high up on the cliffs, past fields of cattle and sheep with a stunning view of the ocean. Go as far as you want but remember to save enough energy for the return journey.
Dog Friendly Places to Eat
East St, Newport SA42 0SY | Tel: 01239 820321
This inn and restaurant provides seating outside or inside in the bar area for those of us with furry friends. Varied menu with daily specials that feature the catch of the day. If you are there for lunch, try the rare roast beef sandwich with homemade bread and coleslaw.
The Old Sailor
Sailors Safety, Dinas Cross, Newport SA42 0SE | Tel: 01348 811491
The Old Sailor can be a bit hit and miss with the main menu. However, you are in for a real treat if the catch of the day is good.
I was lucky enough to get a fresh 1/2 lobster grilled with butter and garlic. Side of frites please, and DONE.
The sun must be shining if you are bringing the pooch because they only allow dogs in the beer garden which sits on the water's edge.
Great sunsets over the sea.
Around the Area
Pembrokeshire has a lot to offer whether your prefer staring at sweeping coastal views or diving into the interior with it's lush forests and farmland. The towns of Fishguard and Cardigan are well worth visiting but a day trip to St. David's is a must.
The smallest city in the UK, St. Davids is the final resting place of THE Saint David, Patron Saint of Wales. The Cathedral has a rich history dating back to 1181. The grounds and buildings are magnificent and rich with history.
If you are feeling peckish, or in the market for some local treats to take away, try St. David's Food & Wine. They serve fresh sandwiches at the deli packed with local ham, cheese and other farm products. I also picked up some delicious mustard with horseradish as well as some local fresh eggs, cheese and of course some yummy Welsh cakes.
High Street | St Davids | SA62 6SB | Tel: 01437 721948