Holidays in Solva
This little seaside village is our home and over the years we’ve spent many wonderful hours exploring the harbour, walking the coastal path, eating in the little cafes and restaurants and learning new outdoor sports. We’re sure you will enjoy exploring too but we wanted to give you a bit of a head start! Here are a few of our favourite places to visit and things to do in and around Solva.
What type of holiday are you looking for?
Things to do
A few of our favourite things to do in Solva whatever the weather.
GO CRABBING ON THE QUAY WALL
Everyone has those favourite childhood memories and crabbing at the seaside is one of ours. Solva harbour wall is the perfect spot and it’s only a short walk from our properties.
EXPLORE SHOPS & ART GALLERIES
Wander down Solva’s colourful high street and take a look at some of the wonderful shops and galleries along the way. Window on Wales is great for gifts and there are several wonderful art galleries.
ENJOY A HOLIDAY ICE CREAM
We all know a holiday is not complete without ice cream and Solva doesn’t disapoint. Head to Pointz Castle Ice Cream
VISIT SOLVA WOOLLEN MILL
This lovely mill is one of the oldest in Wales and only a short drive from Solva. It’s definatly worth a visit and they have a lovely little cafe too. Solva Woollen Mill
Walks & Beaches
Both of our cottages are within walking distance of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, Solva harbour and Solva beach.
The Coastal Path & other walks
Step straignt out and explore some of Pembrokeshire’s most beautiful scenery. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is just minutes from both cottages, with spectacular coastal walks in either direction. There are also lovely inland routes to discover, including St Daivds Airfield – perfect for a peaceful walk with the dog.
Solva Harbour
Solva’s picturesque harbour is made for wandering. Stroll along the waterfront, watch the boats come and go or stop for tea and cake at the cafe. At low tide, walk across the sand between the boats and right out towards the mouth of the harbour – one of our favoutite Solva walks.
Solva Beach
Tucked beyond the harbour, Solva’s sheltered little beach is a wonderful spot to explore. At low tide you can walk along the sand from the harbour, while at high tide a pretty coastal path takes you there instead. With beautiful views across St Brides Bay, it’s well worth discovering.
Other Local Beaches
Some of Pembrokeshire’s most beautifuil beaches are within easy reach. Whitesands and Newgale are perfect for big beach days, while countless smaller coves and hidden gems are waiting to be discovered along the coast. Pack your walking shoes, follow the coast path and find your own favourite.
Outdoor Activities
Are looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adrenaline fueled adventure?
SAILING
It’s hard not to think about sailing when you come to Solva and see all the boats bobbing away in the harbour. You can launch your own dinghy from the slipway or book a boat trip with Solva Sail Boats.
STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING (SUP)
Solva Harbour and St Brides Bay on a calm day are perfect for paddleboarding. Bring your own board or hire one from one of the local outdoor sports centres at Newgale or St Davids.
SURFING
There are lots of good surf spots nearby but Whitesands beach in St Davids is a good place to start. Bring your own board or hire one from one of the local outdoor sports centres at Newgale or St Davids.
Kitesurfing
Newgale beach is fantastic for kitesurfing and if your looking for lessons or kit hire then head over to The Big Blue Experience.
Kayaking
Solva Harbour and St Brides Bay are great for kayaking. Bring your own or hire one from one of the local outdoor sports centres at Newgale or St Davids.
Boat Trips
See Pembrokeshire from a different perspective and take a boat trip out to the Islands. If you’re lucky you will see dolphins and other wonderful wildlife. There are several companies running tours in St Davids.
Coasteering
This unique way to see the coastline is great for all ages and there are several local companies running guided trips. Head to one of the local outdoor sports centres at Newgale or St Davids to find out more.
WILD SWIMMING
Solva Harbour and Sr Brides Bay are great for wild swimming. The water is warmest at the end of the summer but you can always wear a wetsuit if you get really cold!
Places to eat
You will be hungry after all that exploring, here are a few recommendations to get you started.
The Harbour Inn
Set within the harbour overlooking the picturesque countryside and ideal for families and dog friendly.Cosy bar area, family restaurant, garden and outside seating overlooking the harbour.
THE CAMBIRAN
This locally owned and operated restaurant offers a welcome haven for foodies, open for lunch and dinner 364 days of the year. With the talented Head Chef Matt Cox leading a young and enthusiastic kitchen brigade using the best local produce to provide a range of delicious dishes, accompanied by an extensive wine list and a choice of local ales.
The Royal George
35 Main Street
Mamgu Welshcakes
The Old Pharmacy Tearooms
Lavender Cafe
Light and airy cafe serving home made cakes with gluten free options, hot and cold drinks, soup with roll and cheese and tapas boards with cheeses, meats and olives. Child and dog friendly. There is a full licence and a series of events which run throughout the year but especially in the Summer months.
Cafe on the quay
Shops & other essentials
Our holiday cottages are right in the middle of Solva so everything is close at hand.
Bayview Stores, Upper Solva
“The little shop that sells a lot! Semi famous for our shop signs!”
Stocking fresh bread, fresh fruit and veg, home cooked hot food and on site prepared cold, there isn’t much you won’t find here. Bayview Stores is also Solva’s Post Office and Newsagent.
SOLVA SEAFOOD
“The Food Award Wales 2017 Winner for Seafood Supplier of the Year”
Offering freshly caught seafood right here in Solva including Crab, Lobster and fish. Sell ingeither freshly caught ready for the pot or fully prepared. Contact them on 07773 846560.
Would you like to stay?
Take a look at our availability page and plan your next holiday in Solva.