Llanon Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Llanon Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Llanon might be small, but it packs a punch when it comes to exploring West Wales. The village sits right on the Ceredigion Coast Path, giving you direct access to miles of stunning coastline. I recommend heading north to Aberaeron (4.5/5 on TripAdvisor) - it's only 5 miles away and has those colourful Georgian houses that look great on Instagram.

Llanerchaeron (SA48 8DG) is a must-visit National Trust property just 3 miles from Llanon. This 18th-century villa was designed by John Nash and includes a working farm and walled gardens. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and opens 10am-5pm March-October (last entry 4pm).

For wildlife fans, New Quay Dolphin Spotting Boat Trips (SA45 9NR) gets 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. It's about 20 minutes drive south and Cardigan Bay has the UK's largest pod of bottlenose dolphins. We've heard from visitors who've seen up to 20 dolphins in a single trip! Boats run daily from Easter to October, weather permitting.

The Silver Mountain Experience (SY23 3AB) near Aberystwyth offers both historical mine tours and family-friendly fantasy adventures. It scores 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor and is open 10am-5pm daily from March to October.

Pet Friendly

Llanon is brilliant for dogs! The local beaches have seasonal restrictions, but Llansantffraed beach (just north of the village) allows dogs year-round on certain sections. After a beach walk, The Penybont Inn in Llanon welcomes dogs in the bar area and even offers water bowls and treats.

The Wales Coast Path runs right through Llanon, giving you and your dog miles of walking options without needing to drive anywhere. There's a great circular route from the village that takes you along the coast and back through woodland - perfect for tiring out energetic dogs before heading back to your hot tub cottage.

Aberaeron's The Hive restaurant (SA46 0AX) has a dog-friendly outdoor seating area where you can enjoy their famous honey ice cream. For rainy days, Llanerchaeron allows dogs on leads throughout the grounds and in certain areas of the house.

Top tip: The local Spar shop in Llanon stocks basic pet supplies if you forget anything and the vet in Aberaeron (Milfeddygon Deufor, SA46 0AT) is open Monday-Friday 8:30am-6pm with emergency cover available.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Llanon

1. Cardigan Bay Marine Wildlife Centre (SA45 9PS) - This free attraction in New Quay is about 20 minutes drive from Llanon. They've got interactive displays about local marine life and a brilliant observation room where you can use their telescopes to spot dolphins from land. One visitor told me they counted 7 dolphins in just 30 minutes! Open daily 10:30am-4:30pm April-October.

2. Aberystwyth Cliff Railway (SY23 2DN) - The longest electric cliff railway in Britain has been running since 1896. It takes you up Constitution Hill for amazing views across Cardigan Bay - on clear days you can see 26 mountain peaks! The cafe at the top serves great Welsh cakes. A recent visitor said: "Worth every penny of the £5 return ticket." Open daily 10am-5pm April-October, weekends only in winter.

3. Cors Caron National Nature Reserve (SY25 6LZ) - This ancient raised bog is one of the most important wetland sites in Europe. It's about 25 minutes drive from Llanon and has a 3.5km boardwalk trail that takes you right into the heart of the bog. We spotted red kites, dragonflies and even an otter on our last visit! The wooden boardwalk means it's accessible year-round, even after rain.

When is the best time to visit Llanon?

May to September offers the warmest weather with average temperatures of 15-20°C. August is busiest, while June offers good weather with fewer crowds. Winter visits (November-February) are quieter but expect rain - perfect for enjoying your hot tub while watching storms roll in over Cardigan Bay!

Are there any good places to eat in Llanon itself?

Llanon is small with limited dining options in the village itself. The Penybont Inn serves good pub grub and local ales. For more choice, Aberaeron (5 miles north) has excellent restaurants including The Hive (famous for seafood) and The Harbourmaster (award-winning Welsh cuisine).

How far is Llanon from the beach?

The village is about 400 metres from the coast, with Llansantffraed beach just north of the village (5 minute drive or 20 minute walk). This pebble beach is quieter than many in the area. Sandy beaches can be found at Llanrhystud (3 miles south) and Aberaeron (5 miles north).

Is there public transport in Llanon?

The T5 TrawsCymru bus service runs through Llanon connecting Aberystwyth and Haverfordwest with several services daily. However, to make the most of the area, a car is recommended as many attractions are in rural locations with limited public transport.

What's the nearest town for shopping?

Aberaeron (5 miles north) has independent shops, cafes and a small supermarket. For major shopping, Aberystwyth (12 miles north) has high street stores, supermarkets and a twice-weekly farmers' market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Do I need to book attractions in advance?

In peak summer season (July-August), it's advisable to book dolphin watching trips and restaurant tables in advance. Most attractions like Llanerchaeron don't require advance booking except for special events. Always check websites for current opening times as these can vary seasonally.

1. Discover Ceredigion Official Tourism Site
2. Llanerchaeron National Trust
3. Cardigan Bay Tourism Information
4. Visit Wales - Cardigan Bay Guide