Llanon

Sheep wander roadside verges where ancient stones mark territories older than memory. This is proper Welsh countryside - the kind where you might drive for miles without meeting another soul, then stumble across a sculpture gallery tucked away in the hills.

Llanon sits quietly between the Cambrian Mountains and Cardigan Bay, a working village that hasn't bothered much with tourism frills. The surrounding landscape tells stories in stone circles and burial chambers. Llech Gron, an ancient archaeological site, reminds you this land was settled long before anyone thought to build holiday parks.

Mynydd Bach rises to the east, its summit offering views that stretch to the coast on clear days. The peak's name translates as 'little mountain', though there's nothing small about the sense of space up there. Nearby, Hafod Ithel provides another walking objective, complete with its own Cairn Cemetery for those fascinated by Bronze Age burial practices.

Fantasy Farm Park brings things back to the present with family-friendly attractions, while Llyn Fanod and Llyn Eiddwen offer peaceful spots for fishing or simply watching the light change across the water. The Poets of Mynydd Bach historic site celebrates the area's literary heritage - this is Wales, after all.

Getting here requires commitment. Aberystwyth lies about 15 miles north, the nearest proper town with rail connections. From there, it's a winding journey through farmland and forest.

Staying at one of the local holiday parks makes perfect sense if you want to explore this corner of Ceredigion properly. Woodlands Holiday Park and Aeron Coast Caravan Park provide bases for walking the hills or venturing to the coast without the daily drive back to town accommodation.