With dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and the real possibility of spotting dolphins off the shore, this stretch of the Ceredigion Coast Path is an absolute gem.
What makes it even better? It’s quieter than many of the big-name Pembrokeshire walks, it’s wildly beautiful, and it’s perfectly suited to dogs who like a bit of freedom, some manageable climbs, and lots of sea air.
Whether you’re staying in the area or just passing through, this one’s worth making time for.
The Walk at a Glance
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Distance: ~4.5 miles one way (9 miles return)
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Difficulty: Moderate – a few climbs, narrow sections
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Start Point: Cwmtydu Beach Car Park
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End Point: New Quay Harbour (or vice versa)
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Highlights: Coastal views, wildlife, quiet beaches, dolphin spotting
First Impressions: Wild Coast, Hidden Bays, and Zero Stress
Cwmtydu (pronounced “coom-tid-ee”) is the kind of place that makes you exhale. Tucked into a peaceful bay, this former smugglers’ cove feels untouched by time. There’s a small beach, a river tumbling into the sea, and high cliffs on either side. It’s quiet, beautiful, and instantly calming.
It’s also dog heaven. Even before you hit the coast path, your dog will be nose-down in the pebbles and rock pools. This isn’t just a walk—it’s a proper little adventure.
The Route: Cwmtydu to New Quay (and Back If You Fancy)
From the Cwmtydu car park, cross the little bridge and follow the well-marked Ceredigion Coast Path north toward New Quay. You’ll climb up the cliffside pretty quickly—don’t worry, the views make the effort worth it. From here, the path rolls along the top of the cliffs with constant sea views.
Highlights Along the Way:
Clifftop Paths
The coast path here is glorious—rugged, wild, and filled with flowers in spring and early summer. The terrain varies from wide grassy tracks to narrower cliff-edge paths. Dogs will need to be on lead or under close control, especially on exposed sections. A sudden squirrel sighting here could end badly.
Still, there are long stretches of safer ground where you can let your dog roam and enjoy the salt-laced wind.
Seal and Dolphin Spotting
Keep your eyes on the water—this area is part of Cardigan Bay’s Special Area of Conservation, and it’s one of the best places in the UK to spot bottlenose dolphins. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch them surfing waves or leaping from the water. Seals often haul out on the rocks below, too.
Most dogs are fascinated. Just keep a safe distance from cliff edges and don’t let your dog get too interested in wildlife.
Birdlife and Quiet Coves
This route is a hotspot for seabirds—look out for choughs, kestrels, and the occasional peregrine falcon. If your dog is prone to chasing birds, you’ll need to be alert. There are also occasional detours down to quiet coves—perfect for a paddle or a water break if the tide allows.
New Quay
Arriving into New Quay feels like a reward. It’s a small, colourful town with a working harbour, dog-friendly pubs, and an easygoing, beachy vibe. There are cafés with outdoor seating, plenty of ice cream options, and even dolphin-watching boat trips (though not for dogs, sadly).
You can loop back the way you came or grab a taxi or local bus back to Cwmtydu—just check times in advance.
Off-Lead Potential?
Yes, with care.
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Cliff edges: Keep your dog on lead or close by when walking near drop-offs. The path hugs the edge in places.
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Open fields: Some sections inland open out into grazing areas. Watch for sheep and always leash up near livestock.
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New Quay beaches: Check seasonal dog restrictions. The main beach has restrictions in summer, but there are dog-friendly spots nearby like Dolau Beach.
There’s lots of freedom along this route—but the terrain demands responsible walking. This isn’t the place to zone out with a podcast and forget your dog’s 50 metres ahead.
Facilities and Local Info
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Parking: Cwmtydu has a small car park (pay and display) with public toilets. New Quay has larger car parks if you want to reverse the walk.
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Food & Drink: New Quay has several dog-friendly pubs and cafés, including The Black Lion and The Blue Bell Deli. Cwmtydu has a seasonal café kiosk.
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Water: Bring plenty, especially in summer. There are limited water refill spots on the walk itself.
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Dog Waste: Bins are available at both ends, but not along the trail—bag it and carry it.
When to Go
This walk is great all year round, but conditions can make a big difference.
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Spring: Wildflowers, active wildlife, and mild weather—an ideal combo.
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Summer: Beautiful, but more foot traffic in New Quay. Go early or late to avoid the heat and the crowds.
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Autumn: Crisp air, changing colours, and quieter paths. A brilliant time for this route.
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Winter: Wild and moody. Beautiful in a stormy way, but paths can be slippery—good boots essential.
Try to pick a clear day if you want the full effect. The views are everything.
So is Cwmtydu to New Quay a good place to walk your dog?
The Cwmtydu to New Quay walk is the kind of dog walk that leaves a mark. It’s not just the scenery—though the scenery is spectacular. It’s the feeling of walking somewhere a little off the beaten track, where the wild still feels close and the sea is always by your side.
Your dog will love the variety—climbs, swims, sniffs, and the chance to run in the sea air. You’ll love the sense of escape, the quiet magic of the Welsh coast, and maybe a cold pint at the end.
Whether you’re in the area for a weekend or a longer stay, this is one to put near the top of your list. It’s what dog walking should be: free, beautiful, and unforgettable.
