The Travel Guide
The Book of Travel guides were published almost yearly and generally followed a pattern of containing a paragraph or two on most locations in the UK, Europe, Eastern Mediterranean, Africa and Russia, along with travel tips, maps, illustrations, helpful contacts and advertisements.
For information about the book “The Queen” Newspaper Book of Travel: 1907 see the separate article below
Aberdovey: 1907 entry
A quiet bathing place at the mouth of the Dovey, in Merioreth, with good scenery, fishing (river and sea), and golf links. The course, of 18 holes (circuit, 5700 yards), is close to the sea, and within 50 yards of the station (Cambrian Railway). For lodgings apply W.V. Thomas, Medical Hall, Aberdovey. Green charges 2s 6d a day, 10s a week. £1 5s a month: ladies, 2s, 7s 6d, and 31. The winter climate is mild
HOTELS: Trefeddian
Aberdovey: 21st Century edition
Aberdovey, or Aberdyfi as it is known in Welsh, remains a serene coastal village at the mouth of the River Dyfi in Gwynedd, Wales. Its timeless appeal is rooted in its picturesque setting, nestled within the Snowdonia National Park, offering breathtaking views, an abundance of natural beauty, and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
The village is renowned for its beautiful sandy beaches, stretching along the Dyfi Estuary to the Irish Sea. These beaches continue to provide a peaceful haven for bathing and leisurely walks, where the scenic beauty of the area can truly be appreciated. The mild winter climate mentioned from the past still characterizes Aberdovey today, making it an appealing destination year-round, with softer winters compared to much of the UK.
Fishing remains a popular activity, with opportunities for both river and sea fishing. Anglers can enjoy the tranquility of river fishing in the Dyfi Estuary or embark on sea fishing adventures, with the chance to catch a variety of species.
Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to find that the Aberdovey Golf Club continues to offer a premier golfing experience. The 18-hole links course, praised for its natural beauty and challenging layout, is indeed as close to the sea as ever, providing golfers with stunning views and a refreshing breeze from the Irish Sea. The club maintains its reputation for a warm welcome to visitors, offering green fees that allow guests to enjoy this historic course, which has evolved and improved over the years while respecting its heritage.
While specific services and contacts for lodgings have evolved, Aberdovey today boasts a range of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to self-catering cottages and the notable Trefeddian Hotel. The Trefeddian, overlooking the Cambrian coast and mountains of Snowdonia, continues to provide guests with comfortable lodging and exceptional service, making it a perfect base for exploring Aberdovey and its surroundings.
Aberdovey’s connection to the Cambrian Railway remains a key aspect of its charm, offering visitors an enjoyable journey through some of Wales’ most scenic landscapes to reach this idyllic destination.
In revisiting Aberdovey with guidance from a 1907 travel guide, one discovers a village that has retained its peaceful charm and natural beauty, while gracefully adapting to the needs of modern visitors. It invites travellers to step back in time, slow down, and savour the simple pleasures of seaside life, making it a timeless escape on the Welsh coast.
