A Food Lover’s Weekend in the Brecon Beacons, Carmarthenshire & the Welsh Coast – Where to Eat, Stay and Explore"

If wild beach walks are your passion, look no further than Llansteffan.

You can catch a castle, a beach, remote Scot's Bay and head onto the cliffs beyond for incredible low tide views of swirling sandbanks all the way through to Gower.

The main beach is dog-friendly from the end of September to March 31, making it perfect for coastal adventures with four-legged friends.

When hunger strikes, head to The Inn at the Sticks for delicious small plates and an exceptional wine list. It’s the ideal spot to linger over lunch, share stories, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere. Don’t forget to browse their in-house wine shop for a bottle or two to take home. (SA33 5JG)

We love Laugharne. Truly, madly, deeply. This charming Carmarthenshire town has a magic that’s hard to put into words – though Dylan Thomas certainly tried. It’s easy to see why he was drawn here, with its estuary views, winding streets, and timeless coastal character.

A Town Steeped in History and Beauty

Before you tuck into something tasty, take a little time to explore. Wander around Laugharne Castle, or follow Dylan Thomas’ Birthday Walk for sweeping estuary panoramas. Stroll past the poet’s famous writing shed and his old boat house, where the sea breeze seems to carry whispers of his words. There are two main walking routes here – both offering postcard-perfect views.

Just a note: in spring and autumn, high tides can flood the car park, so keep one eye on the tide tables.

Where to Eat in Laugharne

Laugharne punches well above its weight in the food department.

The Ferryman’s Deli – Perfect for grabbing artisanal treats, freshly baked goods, and picnic supplies.

Browns Hotel – Steeped in history and known for hearty, comforting dishes in a warm setting.

Ty Glo Pizza – The new pizza spot in town, serving up wood-fired creations that pair perfectly with a sea breeze.

The Globe – Ideal for tapas and a great glass of wine after a day of exploring.

Whether you’re here for poetry, coastal walks, or just the promise of good food and wine, Laugharne will steal your heart – and probably tempt you back for seconds.

If you’re looking for a perfect foodie day out on the Welsh coast, Aberaeron should be top of your list. This colourful harbour town on the Ceredigion coast is as pretty as a postcard – and it’s home to one of the region’s best dining spots, The Harbourmaster.

Eat by the Water

Book a table in The Harbourmaster’s restaurant and you’ll enjoy fantastic views over Aberaeron’s bustling harbour while tucking into fresh, seasonal dishes. Known for its seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for anyone with an appetite for coastal flavours.

If gardens are your thing, you’re in for a treat – the National Botanic Garden of Wales and Aberglasney Gardens are just down the road from our cottages. These stunning green spaces are perfect for a morning wander before heading off in search of something delicious.

Where to Eat Nearby

Wrights Shop & Kitchen – Order a carafe of the good stuff and their legendary Pork Cubano. Browse the shop for local artisan food and natural wines, or preorder a Supper Kit for a relaxed Friday or Saturday night feast at home.

Y Polyn – A much-loved local favourite, serving quality food with warm, welcoming service. 

Both are open Thursday–Sunday

Skip the crowds and hike up Fan Frynych, linking it into a circular route over to Craig Cerrig Gleisiad. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across to Pen y Fan – and far fewer walkers than on the more famous peaks.

On your way back, stop in Defynnog to see the UK’s oldest yew tree, a living piece of history in the village graveyard.

Then refuel at the International Rarebit Centre for a heritage cheese celebration with creative twists. From traditional Welsh rarebit to inventive flavour pairings, it’s the perfect way to end your adventure. (Check opening times before visiting – LD3 8SL)

For the most dramatic Waterfall Country experience, visit in autumn, winter, or spring – especially after heavy rainfall. The rivers roar, and the cascades are at their most exhilarating, offering a head-pounding, mist-filled spectacle you’ll never forget.

Start your adventure by parking at Pontneddfechan and following the well-marked trails to some of the area’s most famous falls, including Sgwd Gwladys.

After your hike, warm up and refuel at the licensed Sgwd Gwladys Café (SA11 5NR), where hearty food and a drink make the perfect reward for a day exploring the Brecon Beacons’ most magical landscapes.

For an unforgettable Cambrian Mountains adventure, pack your swimsuit and hiking boots. Take a dip in the serene Wash Pool (Pwll Golchi) or follow the trail up Cwm Gwesyn to a spectacular, icy waterfall – perfect for a bracing wild swim at the end of the valley.

After your adventure, head to Llanwrtyd Wells and refuel at the Neuadd Arms Hotel. With an extensive, great-value menu of home-cooked dishes, it’s the ideal spot to warm up and recharge after a day in the wild. (LD5 4RB)

For a memorable Brecon Beacons adventure, hike to the glacial lake Llyn y Fan Fawr on a clear day for jaw-dropping mountain views. If you prefer a gentler, less off-piste route, the Usk Reservoir offers equally beautiful scenery with peaceful waterside paths.

After your walk, head to The Castle Coaching Inn in Trecastle for a well-earned meal. Their extensive menu includes standout homemade tortillas with either veggie or beef chilli – a hearty favourite after a day outdoors. With wines supplied by local independent merchant Tanners, it’s the perfect spot to relax and refuel.

Just two miles from our cottages, The Tywi Bridge Inn sits in a stunning riverside spot with sweeping views of the Cambrian Mountains. Open at weekends, it’s the perfect place to soak up a relaxed, holiday vibe while enjoying a hearty pub meal.

Pair your visit with a walk in the nearby Gwenffrwd Dinas Nature Reserve. This small but magical patch of Celtic Rainforest is threaded with mossy trails, towering trees, and the thundering River Tywi, which cuts through a dramatic canyon. In warmer months, you’ll even find tempting wild swimming spots along the way.

For fresh air, wild beauty, and a pint by the water, this corner of Carmarthenshire is pure bliss. (SA20 0PE)