Llety Bodfor
Cardigan Bay, United Kingdom[view map]
Local restaurants
The acclaimed Penhelig Arms (+44 (0)1654 767215) is but a stroll along the coast and praised for its fresh fish. Book a table in the restaurant if you’re in the mood for white tablecloths and flowers on the table, but we loved the cosiness of the adjoining pub, the Fisherman’s Bar – you’ll need reservations here, too, if you want to eat. Prepare to get to know your neighbours, though, as it can be a bit of a squeeze. The Wynnstay on Maengwyn Street in Machynlleth (+44 (0)1654 702941) is half an hour’s drive, but definitely worth the trek. Try to book a table by the vast fireplace, and prepare to feast like kings thanks to Gareth Johns’ incredible cooking, which includes wonderful local produce such as seasonal game, wild mushrooms and trout. We loved the melt-in-the-mouth venison, and were really impressed by the array of wines that will suit all tastes and budgets. Closest to the hotel is the Bistro On The Square on Chapel Square (+44 (0)1654 767448). Beamed ceilings, picture-covered walls, gingham tablecloths – this is a sweet spot to enjoy fresh local produce – the restaurant has long been popular for its seafood, vegetarian and vegan dishes. You’ll have to book in advance if you want dinner here at the weekend.
Local cafes
The best coffee, quiches and home-made cakes can be enjoyed with the morning papers at local deli Bwtri Blasus on short-stroll-away Seaview Terrace (+44 (0)1654 767470).
Worth getting out of bed for
Explore a little Welsh culture, enjoy the rugged beauty of the countryside and track wild mountain birds (including Peregrine falcons, buzzards, kestrels and kites) on a private 4x4 tour with the passionate, knowledgable and charming Elfin Pugh, owner of Red Kite Safaris (+44 (0)1654 703160; www.redkitesafaris.co.uk). Visit the village of Portmeirion on the southern shores of Snowdonia and pick up some of the famous pottery, sometimes at bargain prices (www.portmeirion-village.com). Adrenalin junkies can experience every imaginable extreme sport in these parts, from kitesurfing to horse riding – just ask the folk at Llety to book you in. There’s a great mountain-biking track nearby, at Coed-y-Brenin forest (+44 (0)1341 440666) as well as a championship golf course on Llety's doorstep at Aberdovey Golf Club (www.aberdoveygolf.co.uk).