A weekend itinerary in coastal Mid Wales

Base yourself in the pretty seaside town of Aberaeron, where colourful Georgian-style architecture is in fashion. Spend the morning exploring the harbour and its bobbing boats, then head to the beach for a walk along the coast path. Later, head into town and discover Aberaeron's independent shops and delicatessens.

Feeling hungry? You can't visit Aberaeron without trying some local seafood. Or, enjoy one of Aberaeron's famous honey ice creams from The Hive, located by the harbourside.

Owned by the National Trust, Llanerchaeron is a rare example of a self-sufficient gentry estate. There's lots to explore there – a beautiful house, pleasure grounds, an ornamental lake and vast parkland with lots of walks. The estate also has a wonderful walled garden and working home farm with Welsh black cattle, Llanwenog sheep and rare breed Welsh pigs. All produce from the farm and walled garden are used in the National Trust cafe and are available to buy in the shop.

Feeling hungry? The Harbourmaster serves a great selection of locally sourced fish. Treat yourself to a Cardigan Bay lobster dinner while enjoying the vista over the harbour.

Take a scenic drive up the coast to the larger seaside town of Aberystwyth. Walk from the ruined 13th century castle along the promenade, past the Victorian architecture, until you reach Constitution Hill. There, you can take the unusual cliff railway to the summit and one of the world's largest camera obscuras (it has a massive 14-inch lens). From the top, there are impressive views. Sometimes, you can even count porpoises and dolphins in the bay from up there.

Feeling hungry? Try Medina, a fab Mediterranean-meets-middle-eastern café specialising in home-made, fresh and local produce. There's plenty for vegetarians and vegans to eat here too. Think nibbles, dips and mezze style meals, unique salads and hearty mains. 

Jump aboard the historic narrow gauge train route of the Vale of Rheidol Railway in Aberystwyth and travel to Devil's Bridge. There, dramatic waterfalls are in abundance, as well as the unusual feature of three separate bridges all built one on top of the other. Listen to the tale of why the bridges are called 'Devil's Bridge', then follow the trail to take in the fabulous views. Stop off at the cafe for a cuppa before boarding the train back to Aberystwyth.

Feeling hungry? Round your day off with dinner at Y Ffarmers in Llanfihangel y Creuddyn, seven miles south of Aberystwyth. The dog-friendly countryside eatery has a small but varied menu including local produce, vegetarian and vegan options. There's also an extensive range of local craft beers, real ales, wine and gins to work through.