A guide to Aberdyfi (Aberdovey)

Escape the hustle and bustle, and discover the joy of coastal holidaymaking in Aberdyfi. Set at the southern edge of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, along the River Dyfi estuary, this charming village boasts stunning scenery, delicious food and a relaxed pace. It’s the perfect location for a rejuvenating getaway.

The main draw to this picturesque location is its stunning stretch of coastline; Aberdyfi (also known as Aberdovey) is a harbour resort with a spectacular stretch of sand and sparkling sea, where many take to the waves to enjoy water sports - sailboarding, sailing and paddle boarding are just a few examples of the water-based activities you can participate in. An adventure playground for the whole family, Aberdyfi is also incredibly dog-friendly, with miles of coastline and coastal trails to embark on together. 

Looking for a place to stay? Whether you’re a large family looking for a big cottage, or somewhere you can bring your canine companion too. Or perhaps it’s a romantic retreat by the coast that you and your beloved are in search of, we’ve got you covered. 

Skip to:

• Things to do in Aberdyfi
• Places to eat and drink in Aberdyfi
• Aberdyfi walks
• Dog-friendly Aberdyfi
• Shopping in Aberdyfi

Things to do in Aberdyfi

Aberdyfi Beach

The town’s award-winning beach stretches out along Cardigan Bay, offering a haven for families and dog owners alike; you can build sandcastles, play beach games, or share a picnic on the golden sands with stunning estuary views. Thrill-seekers can take to the waves for surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or even kite-surfing - and don't forget your furry friend because the beach is also dog-friendly (with seasonal restrictions), allowing your beloved hound to join in on the seaside fun.

Let’s SUP

Take to the crystal-clear waters of southern Snowdonia (Eryri) with Let’s SUP paddleboarding lessons, offering the perfect way to explore the stunning coastline. Led by a qualified and experienced instructor, you'll learn the basics of paddling, balance, and safety in a fun and supportive environment against the backdrop of the spectacular scenery of the Aberdyfi coast. Choose from taster lessons, progression sessions, or scenic estuary tours. 

King Arthur’s Labyrinth

For a day out with the family, enjoy a visit to King Arthur’s Labyrinth, where this exciting storytelling experience brings the myths and legends of King Arthur to life with dramatic scenes, captivating light shows and immersive sound effects. Your hooded Dark Age Boatman will guide you through a labyrinth of chambers, where tales of dragons, colossal giants and fierce battles unfold. The labyrinth tour is a suitable activity for all ages and offers the perfect escape, rain or shine.  

Places to eat and drink in Aberdyfi

The Dovey Inn

Set alongside the picturesque estuary, The Dovey Inn is an ideal spot for a post-walk pint or a hearty meal, with the traditional pub grub menu serving up family favourites such as steak, scampi and sausages. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere extends outside into the pretty pub garden, the perfect place to sit back and soak up the sunshine.

The Bear of Amsterdam

For homemade comfort food, a visit to The Bear of Amsterdam is a must. The atmosphere is homely and welcoming, whilst the meals are sublime; fresh fish and chips, homemade pies and soup served with a doorstop slice and butter - what more could you ask for after a busy morning of activities? It’s always busy, so best to book a table in advance.

Coast Deli Dining

A lovely deli cafe with fabulous views and an extensive and tasty menu to boot, Coast Deli Dining is a great place to enjoy a meal at any time of the day. Serving up hearty breakfasts with the finest locally sourced ingredients, you can tuck into salmon, laverbread, eggs and more until 11.30am when the equally appealing lunch menu featuring pizza and sourdough squares kicks in. Tapas style small plates and pizzas are also available until 9pm.

Aberdyfi walks

Rhydyronen Loop in Pendre

The Rhydyronen Loop isn't for the fainthearted - it winds up the rugged Nant Braich-y-rhiw valley, offering breathtaking panoramas across Eryri (Snowdonia). Tackle streams, stiles, and rugged terrain on this loop which starts and ends at Rhydyronen Station. Feeling even more ambitious? If you’ve brought your car or bike along, extend the adventure further and explore part of Happy Valley.

Aberdyfi Circular Walk (off Coast Path)

Start off the Aberdyfi Circular Walk by setting off from the seafront car park head westward, leaving the town behind as you pass beneath the railway bridge. Keep an eye out for a signpost marking the trail's beginning; the path will take you on an initial climb above the town. Continue your journey westward, until you reach Trefeddian Farm and from there, follow the path alongside a river, skirting the southern edge of Crychnant farmyard. The trail features sections with manageable inclines and the return leg offers a pleasant descent. As you make your way back to Aberdyfi, take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring vistas of the Dyfi estuary and the Cambrian coastline along the way.

Coed y Brenin Forest Park - Visitors Centre

For a day within the wilderness, embark on a walking adventure in Coed y Brenin Forest Park, where you can let Rover off his lead and let the kids take the lead on one of the various trails within lush woodland. Start at the visitors centre where you can then pick one of many routes, depending on your needs - there’s waymarked walking routes and cycling trails - so be careful of speeding bikes. For the kids, you’ll also find plenty of picnic spots and play areas to enjoy.

Dog-friendly Aberdyfi

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more ideal location to bring your canine companion to. Aberdyfi offers mile upon mile of coastal walks and mountainous trails to explore with your pooch in tow. And once you’re done wondering, there are lots of welcoming inns and cafes, perfect for a pit stop that also allows dogs.

For doggies (and owners) with a sense of adventure, explore the magnificent waterfalls and wooded ravine of Dolgoch Falls. You can hop on a train at Dolgoch Railway Station (dogs permitted) and enjoy a doggie paddle in the fresh, cool waters of the gorge.

After a tiring day of exploring the waterfalls - or perhaps you’ve visited the Aberdyfi Beach and dug for treasure - there are plenty of dog friendly eateries to enjoy a meal. Both The Dovey Inn and Coast Deli Dining welcome bow-wows and the Penhelig Arms Hotel is another popular place for dog owners to frequent, for tasty meals like hunter's chicken and chorizo mac and cheese.

Shopping in Aberdyfi

For a quiet and relaxing way to spend a few hours, a peruse of the attractive shops of Aberdyfi is on most visitors' to-do list and there are an array of independent stores and quaint boutiques to peruse in.

If you’ve brought your furry friend along for the holiday then a trip to Dyfi Dogs is definitely in order, treating your pup and getting that tail wagging. 

Etta's Nest and Samphire are lovely women’s clothing shops. Etta’s sells one-off pieces whilst Samphire stocks the latest lines from Seasalt, Adini and Crew.

At the end of a peaceful jaunt, reward yourselves with a sweet treat and head to Aberdyfi Ice Cream which is not only brimming with tasty delights like homemade sorbet, ice cream and waffles, but is a feast for your eyes too; every single pud is artfully presented.

Stay in a self-catering holiday cottage in Aberdyfi

Beyond the activities and scenery, the charm of Aberdyfi lies in its relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere and once you’re done exploring, you’ll want a welcoming home-away-from-home to relax in. Choose from our diverse range of self-catering cottages in Aberdyfi to suit your needs; spacious family-friendly options with enclosed gardens and romantic retreats with stunning coastal vistas. Many cottages are also dog-friendly, allowing your furry companion to join in the seaside adventures too.