Harbourmaster Hotel

The Harbourmaster is a real one of a kind. Its vibrant interiors offer plenty of character to this historic hotel, set in a unique location overlooking the tiny port of Aberaeron.

This tranquil port town along Cardigan Bay is one of Wales ' hidden gems. A cluster of 19th Century buildings, painted all the colours of the rainbow, line the harbourside while the leisure boats, which have gradually replaced the fishing boats, lay in the tidal harbour.

Prominently set in this picturesque sight is the strikingly coloured Harbourmaster Hotel. Built in 1811, the Harbourmaster is now a Grade II listed building and the owners, a local couple, have clearly put a lot of time, effort, care and attention into getting the hotel, if you'll excuse the pun, shipshape.

What they have created is a mix of hip hotel, with contemporary chic and modern styled furnishings while maintaining the original character of the hotel with vivid, seaboard colours and nautical themes. The spacious bedrooms, are all named after boats that once visited the harbour, the décor incorporates stripped wooden floorboards and exposed slate walls and are equipped with all the modern home comforts, king-sized doubles and roomy modernly appointed bathrooms. The best is the top floor suite with lavish space, exposed roof beams, views across both the harbour and the sea and a luxurious roll top bath.

One of the most characteristic original features is the excellent spiral staircase leading down to the stylish bar and restaurant. These make up an equal portion of the hotel's charm. Old pictures line the walls, adding to the sense of local character that can be heard in the Welsh being spoken at the bar. The bistro style restaurant also offers a local taste, mixing Cardigan Bay crab or Welsh Black Beef with contemporary flavours.