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Dyfed is a historic county in south-west Wales, known for its scenic landscapes, coastal beauty, and rich history. Although Dyfed no longer exists as an administrative region (it was replaced by the unitary authorities of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion in 1996), it remains a significant cultural and historical area. The region is characterized by rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and lush countryside, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and historical significance.

Towns and cities

Carmarthen:

The county town of Carmarthenshire and one of the oldest towns in Wales, dating back to Roman times. Carmarthen is known for its historical market and Carmarthen Castle.

New Quay:

New Quay boasts sandy beaches like Harbour Beach, Traeth Gwyn, and Dolau Beach. These are popular for swimming, sunbathing, and various water activities, including kayaking and paddleboarding. The town has a significant literary heritage, with Dylan Thomas once living here in the 1940s. It's thought that New Quay inspired the setting for his play Under Milk Wood. New Quay was historically a fishing and shipbuilding town, and while fishing remains part of its heritage, tourism is now its mainstay. The town’s maritime past is evident in the harbour and traditional buildings, and there are several sites and museums that celebrate its coastal culture.

Aberystwyth:

The largest town in Ceredigion, it is a vibrant university town with a long promenade, a historic castle, and a cultural hub for Welsh language and heritage.

Haverfordwest:

The county town of Pembrokeshire, Haverfordwest is known for its Norman castle and proximity to the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

Tenby:

A picturesque seaside town in Pembrokeshire, known for its medieval walls, sandy beaches, and colourful houses. It's one of Wales' most popular holiday destinations.

St Davids:

The smallest city in the UK, located in Pembrokeshire. St Davids is home to St Davids Cathedral, a major pilgrimage site and a historic religious centre dedicated to the patron saint of Wales, Saint David. Built on the site where Saint David founded a monastic community in the 6th century, the cathedral has been a place of pilgrimage for centuries. The current structure dates largely from the 12th century and is a stunning example of medieval architecture. It contains the shrine of Saint David, and it remains an active site of worship and pilgrimage today. Adjacent to St. Davids Cathedral is the Bishop’s Palace, a grand medieval ruin that once served as the residence of the Bishops of St. Davids. Built in the 13th and 14th centuries, the palace was once a symbol of the power and influence of the church. Today, visitors can explore its impressive ruins and get a glimpse into the lives of the medieval bishops who resided there.

Area

5,771 sq. km / 2,228sq. miles.

Population

385,090 (2022)

Topography

Dyfed encompasses the modern counties of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion. It stretches from the Cambrian Mountains in the north to the Pembrokeshire Coast in the west, with the Brecon Beacons in the south-east. The region is bordered by Cardigan Bay to the north and the Bristol Channel to the south.

Commerce

Dyfed has a long agricultural tradition, with farming playing a key role in its economy. The area is known for its dairy farming, and visitors can experience rural life through farm stays, local produce markets, and agricultural shows.

Famous people

The home of Dylan Thomas is situated in the village of Laugharne, 6 km/3.7 mi south-east of St Clears.

Attractions

History

Carreg Cennen Castle:

A dramatic ruined castle perched on a limestone hilltop near Llandeilo in Carmarthenshire. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is one of the most romantic and iconic castles in Wales.

Kidwelly Castle:

A well-preserved Norman castle overlooking the River Gwendraeth in Carmarthenshire, known for its impressive architecture and strategic location.

Pembroke Castle:

The birthplace of Henry VII, the first Tudor king of England, Pembroke Castle is a massive and well-preserved fortress located in the town of Pembroke. The castle has a rich history, dating back to Norman times.

Strata Florida Abbey:

Located in Ceredigion, this Cistercian abbey was founded in the 12th century and is closely associated with Welsh culture and history. It is also the burial place of several medieval princes of Wales.

Llansteffan Castle:

Overlooking the mouth of the River Towy, Llansteffan Castle offers stunning views of Carmarthen Bay and the surrounding countryside. The castle has a long history, with origins dating back to the Iron Age. Culture

Welsh Language:

Dyfed, particularly in Carmarthenshire and Ceredigion, is a stronghold of the Welsh language, with many of its residents being Welsh speakers. The region is known for its commitment to preserving and promoting Welsh culture and traditions.

National Eisteddfod:

This annual celebration of Welsh language and culture often takes place in various locations across Dyfed. It’s the largest festival of competitive music and poetry in Europe.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park:

The only coastal national park in the UK, this area is known for its dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and wildlife. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers walkers stunning views of the rugged coastline.

Brecon Beacons National Park:

While part of this park extends into Powys, its western edge reaches Dyfed, offering hiking, cycling, and outdoor adventures in a stunning mountain landscape.

Barafundle Bay:

Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay is a secluded, golden sand beach backed by dunes and pine trees in Pembrokeshire.

Cenarth Falls:

A picturesque set of waterfalls on the River Teifi, located near the village of Cenarth. The falls are famous for salmon leaping during the spawning season and are a popular spot for walking and picnicking.

Cardigan Bay:

Known for its stunning coastal scenery and wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, seals, and seabirds. The bay is dotted with charming seaside towns like New Quay and Aberaeron. Dyfed is home to some of Wales' most beautiful beaches, many of which are found in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion. These beaches are popular for swimming, surfing, and water sports.

Solva:

Picturesque village located on the south-west coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales, nestled along the banks of the River Solva as it flows into St Brides Bay. Known for its natural beauty, colourful houses, and rich maritime history, Solva is a popular destination for visitors to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. The most distinctive feature of Solva is its tidal harbour, which fills with fishing boats and pleasure crafts during high tide and reveals its sandy, rocky floor at low tide. The harbour is surrounded by the village’s colourful cottages and offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and hills. Visitors can walk along the harbour or relax at one of the nearby cafes while enjoying the coastal scenery. Established in 1907, Solva Woollen Mill is the oldest working woollen mill in Pembrokeshire. It continues to produce traditional Welsh wool products, including blankets and rugs, using vintage looms. Visitors can tour the mill to learn about the weaving process, explore the mill shop for locally made goods, and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe.

Walking and Hiking:

Dyfed offers a variety of scenic walking routes, including the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, which spans 186 miles (300 km) along the coastline, and the Ceredigion Coast Path.

Kayaking and Sailing:

The region’s coastline is ideal for water-based activities. Cardigan Bay and the Teifi Estuary are popular spots for kayaking, sailing, and boat tours.

Cycling:

The quiet country lanes and coastal routes of Dyfed make it a great place for cycling. The Lôn Teifi cycle route connects Carmarthen to Aberystwyth, passing through scenic rural areas.

Merlin:

According to legend, the famous wizard Merlin was born in Carmarthenshire, near Carmarthen, which is sometimes associated with the name Myrddin in Welsh mythology.

Cantre'r Gwaelod:

Dyfed is also connected to the legend of Cantre'r Gwaelod, a mythical sunken kingdom said to have existed in what is now Cardigan Bay. The legend tells of a prosperous land lost to the sea due to the negligence of its rulers. Dyfed's coastal areas, especially Cardigan Bay, are known for their rich marine life, including bottlenose dolphins, porpoises, and grey seals. The region is also home to diverse birdlife, particularly along the Pembrokeshire coast, where puffins, gannets, and razorbills can be seen.

Skomer Island:

Located off the Pembrokeshire coast, Skomer is a bird sanctuary known for its puffin colonies and as a haven for other seabirds. Boat trips to the island are a popular tourist activity.

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