The hidden treasures of Aberdovey and the secret waterfall nearby
When the sun is shining all I want to do is head to the seaside and I can think of no place I'd rather be than Aberdyfi (Aberdovey). I've been visiting this seaside village since I was a little girl and it holds a special place in my heart - a sentiment I share with the many people from the Midlands I meet here.
After traveling the long windy road from Machynlleth there is no greater reward than the wonderful view of boats in the harbour. The sun is beaming, the sea is glistening and I'm back in my little bit of heaven. My husband prefers the journey from the Midlands via the mountains and through the Mach Loop, just in case there are any low flying planes (the flight path that the military aircraft take as they navigate through the valleys) - both are glorious and bring you to the same place just, quite obviously, with very different views.
For me, it's the perfect distance from the Midlands, far enough away so you feel like you're going on holiday (around 2.5 hours depending on where you're coming from in the Midlands) yet close enough that the journey doesn't feel tiring.
Read Next: Brum's most famous pub to reopen as owner says 'we're doing it for the fans'
I love this place in Autumn, Winter and Spring - but especially in the Summer. There is something that sea air does for the soul no matter what time of the year it is.
There are plenty of places to stay here (lots of B&Bs and rentals online) and an abundance of things to do. I like to experience new places, don't get me wrong, but this place feels like a second home for me and I never get bored. The people are so friendly and kind - prices here are fair and there is something for everyone.
Once you visit you'll keep coming back and these are just some of the things that keep me coming back.
(Oh and the waterfall, I'll share a picture and tell you it's in another village nearby - but the rest of the research you'll need to do yourself.)
Train
Traveling by car has its perks, but if you ever get the opportunity to travel on the train from Birmingham - do it! Viewing the sea from the train is, in my view, fantastic (mainly the coastal part). When I'm visiting, one of my favourite things to do is to hop on the train from Tywyn (near to where we stay) to Aberdyfi, so we can visit the pub and leave the car behind and enjoy a few drinks. If I'm feeling active, walking the five miles from Tywyn to Aberdyfi or vice versa is stunning. We also like to take the train to Barmouth and beyond for the day. When I last visited I saw a pod of dolphins - I challenge you to find me a better train journey.
Dogs
Dogs are very welcome here - from the train to the pub. While there are restrictions on where they can go on the beach during the high season - there are acres of beach to walk. There is even a very well-stocked dog shop called Dyfi Dogs, which is full of treats and essentials in the village - with a very knowledgeable owner who will always help you when he can. The owner of the shop, took us in last Summer when we were in need of doggy help and within the hour he was helping train them, well, my husband and I. I will never forget what he did for us. There is also a vet's practice in nearby Tywyn for that peace of mind - they are fab.
Shops
There aren't an abundance of shops here, but it's definitely quality over quantity. You'll find a fabulous little interior and clothes shop on the front called Sweet Willow (next to the Brit) - I don't think I've ever been in here and not bought something. The owner is welcoming and helpful. The shop is filled with everything from candles to vases to clothes.
There are your typical beachside shops where you can buy your crabbing gear and spades. Unfortunately for my husband, I often drag him around all the clothes shops before I lose him to the pub - It's a very well-balanced location. There are lovely art shops, naturally there is a Fatface, but there are some independent shops too, in particular, I enjoy a look around Nandoras - where you can grab some Havaianas should you need them.
Shops here include ArtWorks Gallery, Braided Rug Company, Beach House SUP & Surf, Aberdyfi Butchers, Du Casse, Dyfi Dogs, Etta’s Nest, Nandoras, Samphire, Sweet Willow, Dovey Marine, Dai’s Shed (fresh fish), Aberdyfi Pharmacy (for everything you've forgotten and anything you need), Dyfi Store & Post Office, of course there is also The Sweet Shop Dairy, Isabel's (a recently opened deli), The Sweet Shop and Aberdyfi Village Stores.
The beach
For many this is why they visit Aberdyfi and for me it's one of the best parts. You can't beat swimming in the sea and exploring the beach. One of my favourite things to do is paddleboard in the estuary. It never seems to be that busy and it's so serene. When the tide is high (and this is a must) I love to jump off the pier (yes, that's right) and it is an activity people travel for. That and crabbing!
Pubs
There is a good selection of pubs here Tides Bar, The Brit, Dovey Inn, and Penhellig. There are also a few other places selling soft drinks and alcohol including Noon and also Coast To Go.
I love Tides for their fabulous cocktails (All the favorites from a frozen Margarita to a Pina Colada). They also have a great selection of gin and wine. You'll often find me sipping a cocktail on the bench outside or if I'm quick enough to grab a window seat. Another favourite is The Brit and Penhelig for a pint and the view as there is seating outside - they all have their own individual charm!
Dining
Looking for a fancy meal, head to Seabreeze, I really love this place. My husband and I once ordered all the starters and a bottle of wine and it's one of my favourite meals I have ever had in my life - the problem is everything on the menu is just too good! There is also a wonderful cafe/restaurant here called Coast (Coast To Go is the takeaway) - which also has a sister takeaway venue just up the road in Tywyn . It's small so worth booking in advance but well worth visiting. We enjoyed a seafood lunch and great service.
Just a short distance away is Tywyn and you'll also find some wonderful shops and pubs there!
Nearby...
There are some fabulous places to eat in Tywyn, not far from Aberdyfi. You can get the train or bus - or drive, obviously. I'd recommend Salt Marsh Kitchen, Aberdyfi's sister cafe Millie and Sid's, Proper Gander and Bay of Bengal. There are just too many places to mention for a bite to eat - but these are my favourite.
Don't forget to...
Walk the long beach journey from Tywyn to Aberdyfi on a fine day (or in reverse)
Book a lesson on a paddleboard Let's SUP.
The coastal walk around Aberdyfi near the Penhelig (check tide times for safety)
Dolgoch Falls is worth visiting. You just pay for parking and can see the waterfalls not far from there - but there is also a longer walk for those who enjoy a hike
Tyn Cornel for the best lake view and a pint and also some delicious food
'Mach Loop' where you can park up and sit on the famous hill where you might see some military aircraft - it might be a long wait!
Cader Idris for a life-changing walk - even if you only walk up to the first lake
The secret waterall, not in Aberdyfi but a village near-by. I am just going to leave that clue here, as the identity of the area should not be shared - researching it is part of the fun, but it really is worth the effort
Train ride to Barmouth for a day out
Visit Tywyn, it's a lovely town, just five miles from Aberdyfi
Go for a drink at the The Slipway and watch the sea views
There is a wonderful cinema in Tywyn that's well worth a visit
From the people you meet to the waves you watch - visit this seaside town come Winter or Summer - it's divine....