Tour Ref: CC4/1
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The Cardigan coast and its environs boast a rich railway heritage founded in Victorian industrial exploits. It is also highly scenic and quite simply a lovely part of the world. There aren’t many large. good quality, hotels locally and so in order to include the excellent attractions we have compromised a little on this occasion – hence the price!
We meet at Machynlleth Station early afternoon and drive up the Dulan Valley to Corris. Special arrangements enhance our visit to this scenic ex-slate line. At the original workshop building we hear the intriguing history of the area. Afterwards, we’ll show you Aberystwyth seafront so you can wander down later to see the legendary starling cloud over the pier should you wish, and finally check in at the Starling Cloud.
A big southern circular starts with a drive to Llandrindod Wells for a morning train to Llandeilo passing Sugar Mountain on the pleasant Central Wales Line. Back on the coach we drive across to Carmarthen for the Gwili Steam Railway. This is the only standard gauge steam railway in West Wales and has recently extended. Our route back to Aberystwyth includes a coastal drive up from Aberaeron but before that we must stop at the friendly Teifi Valley Railway.
We must take a train from Aberystwyth Station, just a short walk from the hotel, and so we will – to Fairbourne. A morning treat awaits at the Fairbourne Railway. This miniature line runs for two miles down to the beach and back with views of Barmouth to behold. We then retrace our coastal journey by road to Tywyn for more legendary steam. The Talyllyn Railway is the oldest preserved line in the world and has not only a scenic rail ride up the valley to offer, but an excellent museum as well.
We are signing off with our local steam line. So, with luggage stored on the coach we stroll along to the Vale of Rheidol Railway. There follows a stunning journey, ever climbing, and with wonderful views, to Devils Bridge. A little break at this Victorian tourist destination before we continue by road to Caersws or Newtown where homeward bound journeys commence.
Here’s different! Think of this as the equivalent of a Premier Inn perhaps. Accommodation is spacious and comfortable, though a little basic, and located in a purpose built block across the car park from the associated inn. The inn is where breakfast and evening meals are taken and is a Public House. There is little wrong with this place but it’s no 4 star. So, if you fancy the idea of a “pub based” holiday we think this will be lots and lots of fun.
