Roadtrip around the Llyn Penisular

The Llŷn Peninsula, also known as Llyn Peninsula, is a stunning area in North Wales known for its beautiful coastline and pristine beaches. I have complied this little guide of everything you need to know if you are planning to take a road trip over there this summer. The Llŷn Peninsula has a rich and diverse culture and history, shaped by its geographical location and the communities that have called it home for centuries.

The Llŷn Peninsula is part of Gwynedd, a region in North Wales where the Welsh language is still widely spoken and celebrated. Historically, the Llŷn Peninsula has been an agricultural region, with farming and sheep rearing being the mainstays of the local economy. The peninsula’s coastal communities have a deep connection to the sea. Fishing has been an important part of the local economy and culture for centuries. You can still see traces of this maritime heritage in fishing harbors and old boatyards.

If you fancy absorbing some local culture check out these sites:

1. Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli): This small island, located off the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula, holds spiritual and historical importance. It has been a site of pilgrimage and religious retreat for centuries and is associated with the legend of the “Island of 20,000 Saints.”
2. Iron Age Hillforts: The Llŷn Peninsula boasts several well-preserved Iron Age hillforts, such as Tre’r Ceiri, Dinas Dinlle, and Castell Odo. These ancient sites offer insights into the area’s prehistoric past and provide stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
3. Folklore and Legends: Like many areas in Wales, the Llŷn Peninsula is rich in folklore and legends. Tales of mythical creatures, like the “Afanc” (a Welsh water monster), and stories of saints and heroes have been passed down through generations, adding to the cultural fabric of the region.

Attractions

The Llŷn Peninsula offers a range of attractions for things to see and do for all ages. So I’ve listed some family friendly attractions which are suitable across all weathers, especially this summer which has been pretty soggy so far.

1. Greenwood Family Park: Located near Caernarfon, this adventure park offers an array of activities for kids, including treetop adventures, a giant slide, and a people-powered roller coaster. There are also play areas, a maze, and a forest-themed indoor play center.
2. Dwyfor Rabbit Farm and Animal Park: Situated near Pwllheli, this animal park is perfect for animal lovers. Kids can pet and feed various farm animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, and lambs. There’s also an indoor soft play area for rainy days.
3. Llanystumdwy Miniature Railway: Take a ride on this charming miniature railway in Llanystumdwy. Kids will love the train journey through the countryside, passing by streams and fields.
4. Pili Palas Nature World: Located in Menai Bridge, Anglesey (within a short drive from the Llŷn Peninsula), this indoor attraction features tropical butterflies, reptiles, meerkats, and more. It’s a great option for a fun and educational day out.
5. Abersoch Beach: With its sandy shores and shallow waters, Abersoch Beach is an excellent spot for families. Kids can build sandcastles, play in the waves, and enjoy ice creams from nearby vendors.
6. Llyn Coastal Path: The coastal path offers gentle walks suitable for families, providing opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and spot wildlife. Choose shorter sections suitable for little legs.
7. Porthmadog Maritime Museum: Located in Porthmadog, this small museum showcases the area’s maritime history and features interactive displays that engage young visitors.
8. Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw: In addition to its art exhibitions, Plas Glyn y Weddw offers family-friendly workshops and events during school holidays.
9. Pwllheli Hafan Beach: This Blue Flag beach in Pwllheli is perfect for families with its calm waters and clean sands. It’s an excellent spot for paddling, swimming, and picnics.
10. Porth Oer (Whistling Sands): With its unique sound underfoot, Whistling Sands is fascinating for kids. They can run along the beach and explore the surrounding rock pools.

Camping

Wild camping is illegal in Wales and there has been a crackdown on camping on beach fronts. However there are still some non scenic laybys and overnight car parks, which can be found on the Park For The Night App. The Llŷn Peninsula in North Wales offers a range of beautiful campsites where you can immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the stunning coastal landscapes. Here are some of the best campsites on the Llŷn Peninsula:

1. Tyddyn Llwyn Camping: Located near Pwllheli, this family-friendly campsite offers spacious pitches and modern facilities. It provides easy access to nearby beaches and the popular town of Abersoch.
2. Nant-y-Big Camping & Caravan Park: Situated near Morfa Nefyn, this campsite offers stunning views of the coastline and is close to the picturesque Porthdinllaen Beach. It’s an excellent base for exploring the northern coast of the peninsula.
3. Hirdre Fawr Farm Campsite: This peaceful campsite near Aberdaron offers a relaxed and rural setting. With basic facilities and spacious pitches, it’s perfect for those seeking a quiet and remote camping experience.
4. Tudweiliog Camping & Caravan Site: Located in the village of Tudweiliog, this campsite is close to some of the peninsula’s most beautiful beaches, including Porth Oer (Whistling Sands) and Porth Ysgo.
5. Glan Gwna Holiday Park: While not directly on the peninsula, this holiday park near Caernarfon offers camping and caravan facilities in a beautiful woodland setting with a river running through it. It’s a short drive from the Llŷn Peninsula’s attractions.
6. Rhos Y Foel Camping & Caravan Park: Nestled in the countryside near Abersoch, this campsite offers stunning views of Cardigan Bay. It’s close to Abersoch’s beaches and watersports facilities.
7. Tŷ Newydd Farm Caravan & Camping Site: Located near Aberdaron, this campsite is within walking distance of the village and is an excellent starting point for exploring the peninsula’s western coast.

Remember to book in advance, especially during the peak summer months, as these campsites can get busy. Topping up water is available at petrol stations, campsites and there are public toilets available in most villages and basic bin facilities, however it is important to note this is a rural community. So if you’re after a Macdonalds or a superstore there aren’t any, and supplies can be found at local stores and small markets.

Best Beaches

Here are some of the best beaches you can explore on the Llŷn Peninsula:

1. Abersoch Beach: A popular beach with golden sands and clear waters, Abersoch Beach is a favorite among families and water sports enthusiasts. It’s great for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, and the nearby village offers a lively atmosphere with cafes and shops.
2. Whistling Sands (Porth Oer): This unique beach gets its name from the sound the sands make underfoot. Whistling Sands is a National Trust-managed beach with a crescent-shaped bay, stunning cliffs, and clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
3. Porth Neigwl (Hell’s Mouth): Renowned for its excellent surf conditions, Porth Neigwl, or Hell’s Mouth, attracts surfers and beach lovers alike. The beach is vast and often less crowded, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
4. Porthdinllaen: A picturesque beach located near the village of Morfa Nefyn, Porthdinllaen offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and the Ty Coch Inn, a popular beachfront pub known for its stunning location.
5. Porthor (Whistling Sands): Another beach with the name “Whistling Sands,” Porthor is located on the northern coast of the peninsula. This peaceful spot is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic with views of the nearby headlands.
6. Traeth Penllech: This hidden gem is a secluded and unspoiled beach that offers tranquility and natural beauty. It’s perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience away from the crowds.
7. Porth Ceiriad: Situated between Abersoch and Hell’s Mouth, Porth Ceiriad is a beautiful cove with golden sand and turquoise waters. The beach is sheltered by rocky cliffs, making it an idyllic spot for swimming and sunbathing.

These are just a few of the many delightful beaches you can find on the Llŷn Peninsula. Each one offers its own charm and scenic beauty, making the area a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Summer Bucket List Experiences

Over the past few weeks travelling around I have had more time to think about what I would like to achieve now the van conversion is over. I decided to make a list about what Top 5 things I would like to experience this summer.

1. Have a wildcamp in a tent and a multiday hike
2. Paddleboard across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
3. Take the van around the Welsh Coast
4. Take a Roadtrip with a Friend
5. Wild Swim in a new and exciting place.

To help me achieve this list I filled up the van with fuel and drove over to Wales and asked Maddy my friend to join me for the leg of the tour from North Wales to the LLyn Peninsula on her weekend off. I also successful managed to convince her to paddleboarding across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct with me, where there is no barrier and a 126ft drop!

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The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a remarkable feat of 18th-century engineering, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and a symbol of industrial heritage. Spanning the scenic River Dee and the stunning Llangollen Canal in northeastern Wales, this aqueduct is an awe-inspiring structure that marries form and function. Designed by engineer Thomas Telford and completed in 1805, the aqueduct stretches 1,007 feet (307 meters) across and stands 126 feet (38 meters) above the river, making it one of the longest and highest navigable aqueducts in the world. The cast iron trough, supported by stone pillars and elegant arches, carries canal boats gracefully across the river, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque Dee Valley and the lush Welsh countryside. As visitors venture along the aqueduct, they are treated to a thrilling and immersive experience, connecting with history and nature simultaneously, as they marvel at the audacious engineering and the breathtaking panorama that surrounds them. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a true marvel and a must-see destination for travelers seeking to be inspired by human innovation and the beauty of the natural world.

SAFETY NOTICE- as you can see in all my photos I am sitting down as we cross the aqueduct. That’s because the cross wind makes it to difficult and dangerous to stand in the middle. You can walk across, use a boat or kayack. Paddleboards are usually not recommended to cross due to safety, however we asked for permission from the canal and river trust folks on site on the day on the agreement we would cross whilst sitting.

Here is our aquatic adventure it was quite a thrilling aquatic escapade! I’m excited to share my latest adventure, where I take on the challenge of paddleboarding across the awe-inspiring Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Join me as I navigate these historic waters, capturing the beauty of the landscape and embracing the adrenaline rush of paddling at great heights.

Before setting out on my paddleboarding expedition, I spent the morning double-checking my gear, making sure everything was securely packed. The board, paddle, safety equipment, and camera gear all passed the inspection. I couldn’t help but feel a mix of nerves and exhilaration as I anticipated the journey ahead.

Approaching the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was an experience in itself. The sheer height and architectural marvel of this UNESCO World Heritage Site left me in awe. The aqueduct spans 1,007 feet (307 meters) and stands 126 feet (38 meters) above the River Dee – a breathtaking sight from my vantage point on the paddleboard.

As I began paddling across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a mix of excitement and trepidation coursed through me. The narrow cast iron trough with no barriers meant that every stroke demanded my utmost focus. But the panoramic views of the Dee Valley below were absolutely worth it.

Midway across the aqueduct, I found myself entranced by the stillness of the water, mirroring the clouds above. The peace and quiet were unlike anything I’d experienced before. It was an incredible moment of connection with nature, reminding me why I seek out these adventures.

The viaduct is one way, so canal boats were waiting for us to cross as we were somewhat slower than a deiseal engine! We hurried to the end and decided to take a rest for a coffee and a piece of cake at Dina’s Kitchen Garden (Just before the drawbridge). The owner was exceptionally accommodating and kind and made Maddy a special sandwich due to her intolerances and allergies. I had a doorstop portion size piece of cake, and with a full bellies with crossed back across the viaduct and back towards the Campervans.

My heart felt heavy as I bid farewell to this mesmerizing journey. I couldn’t help but think paddleboarding across this marvel was an unforgettable experience, allowing me to connect with history, conquer heights, and find solace in the serenity of the moment. I have been busy planing and achieving my next thrilling escapade, and start to plan to tick off my other summer bucketlist activities. Check my blog and instagram to keep up to date with my next adventures.

Top things to see and do in and around Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park and it’s surrounding areas offer a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. I enjoyed spending a week cruising around the heart of the national park in July. I choose it as my first destination to visit and break myself into living and working in the van full time.

Growing up in the Midlands, I often came to North Wales as a child. However, I didn’t start visiting Snowdonia until I was an adult and had discovered my passion for hiking. I first climbed Mt Snowdon in 2012 with my geologist friend from Cardiff. This steadfast outdoors Welshman took a chance on dragging me up the moutain in nothing more than a pair of trainers and a pair of jeans armed with a bag of haribo. My outlook on the outdoors was very different back then, my active wear was no more than a pair of trackies and a snickers bar for extra protein. I was very much inexperienced with mountaineering and looking back quite comically under experienced. In the following years I have developed a passion for hiking, wild swimming, and moutain biking through the great outdoors and hopefully learnt how to dress myself a little better now.

Therefore as an acumination of my experience of this region, if you would like to explore landscapes of rolling mountains, dramatic coastlines, forests that elves would envy to tread trough and crystal clear soft water lakes, go ahead and make a note of these places to visit on your journey.

1. Climb Mount Snowdon: Scaling the highest peak in Wales is a must-do activity for many visitors. Choose from several routes, including the Llanberis Path, Pyg Track, Miner’s Track, or more challenging options like the Snowdon Horseshoe. The views from the summit are simply spectacular.

1. Ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway: If you prefer a more leisurely ascent of Mount Snowdon, hop on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. This historic narrow-gauge steam train takes you to the summit, allowing you to admire the scenery without the physical exertion.

A taste of the Amalfi with the multi coloured homes of Portmeirion

Visit Portmeirion: Explore the whimsical Italian-style village of Portmeirion, located on the coast of Snowdonia. The village is known for its colorful buildings, beautiful gardens, and unique architecture. It’s a fantastic place to wander and discover hidden corners.

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Kayack at Llyn Padarn, with toilets multiple car park and the Lone Tree Cafe nearby the lakeside has lots of amities. You can take a leisurely stroll along the shores of Llyn Padarn. There is a footpath that follows the lake, providing an opportunity to take in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the natural beauty of the area and the local forest and panoramic views of the mountains. Try kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding on the lake. There are rental facilities available in Llanberis where you can hire equipment.

Step back in time at Conwy Castle: Just outside Snowdonia National Park, the medieval Conwy Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an architectural masterpiece. Explore its impressive walls, towers, and interior to get a glimpse into Wales’ rich history.

Get your adrenaline fix at Zip World: Thrill-seekers should head to Zip World, an adventure park offering exhilarating experiences. Try the fastest zip line in the world at Zip World Velocity, soar through the forests on Zip World Fforest Coaster, or challenge yourself with the treetop nets and mazes at Zip World Nets Adventure.

Take a tea break in Betws-y-Coed: Known as the gateway to Snowdonia, Betws-y-Coed is a charming village nestled in the heart of the national park. Visit Swallow Falls, explore the enchanting Fairy Glen, and take in the picturesque surroundings. The village also offers quaint shops, cafes, and the interesting Conwy Valley Railway Museum.

Beach Hop around Anglesey: A picturesque island just off the coast of North Wales, Anglesey offers stunning landscapes and historic sites. Visit the magnificent Beaumaris Castle, explore the beautiful beaches, and enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and watersports. Don’t miss the enchanting South Stack Lighthouse and the historic village of Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch (Llanfair PG for short).

Bala and Llyn Tegid: The market town of Bala is a gateway to Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), the largest natural lake in Wales. Enjoy water activities such as sailing, canoeing, and fishing on the lake. Bala also offers scenic walks, historic sites, and the Bala Lake Railway

Paddleboard over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Visit the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a remarkable feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a boat trip along the Llangollen Canal, crossing the aqueduct for stunning views over the Dee Valley.

Places to stay, camp and wild camp.

There are numerous fantastic campsites in North Wales. I choose to wild camp and to use Park for the Night App and my knowledge of the area. In the past I have stayed at lots of campsites in North Wales here are my favourite ten top campsites in the region for location and scenery.

1. Tyddyn Isaf Camping and Caravan Park (Dulas): This family-friendly campsite near Anglesey offers stunning sea views, spacious pitches, modern facilities, and a convenient location close to sandy beaches.
2. Beddgelert Campsite (Beddgelert): Nestled in Snowdonia National Park, this campsite provides a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by mountains and forests. It offers well-maintained facilities and is an ideal base for exploring the park.
3. Shell Island (Llanbedr): Known as one of the largest campsites in Europe, Shell Island is located on a stunning peninsula with golden beaches. It offers various pitch options, on-site amenities, and beautiful views of the Cardigan Bay.
4. Rynys Farm Camping Site (Betws-y-Coed): Situated in a tranquil countryside setting near Betws-y-Coed, Rynys Farm offers a relaxed camping experience with spacious pitches, excellent facilities, and access to scenic walks and hiking trails.
5. Tyn Cornel Camping (Bala): This campsite, located on the banks of the River Tryweryn, is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. It provides riverside pitches, opportunities for water activities such as kayaking and rafting, and access to the surrounding Snowdonia landscapes.
6. Llyn Gwynant Campsite (Nant Gwynant): Positioned beside a picturesque lake in Snowdonia, Llyn Gwynant offers a tranquil camping experience. It features stunning mountain views, easy access to hiking trails, and basic facilities that blend with the natural surroundings.
7. Dinarth Hall Camping and Caravan Site (Rhos-on-Sea): Situated on the North Wales coast, Dinarth Hall offers a peaceful camping experience with sea views and direct access to a sandy beach. It provides modern facilities and is within reach of popular attractions in the area.
8. Hendre Mynach Touring Caravan & Camping Park (Barmouth): Located near the seaside town of Barmouth, this campsite offers scenic views of Cardigan Bay, well-maintained pitches, and easy access to the beach and coastal walks.
9. Cae Du Campsite (Tywyn): Set on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, Cae Du Campsite offers a peaceful setting with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Cardigan Bay. It provides basic facilities and is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat.
10. Graig Wen (Dolgellau): Situated on the Mawddach Estuary, Graig Wen is an eco-friendly campsite offering stunning views, spacious pitches, and access to nature trails. It is a great choice for nature lovers and is within reach of popular attractions in Snowdonia.

Before planning your camping trip, be sure to check availability, facilities, and any specific regulations or booking requirements for each campsite.

Woolly Wagon Stay

Post sponsored by the Woolly Wagon at Abergwynant Farm

Fancy a cosy getaway, where you can have walks, dramatic mountain scenery and beautiful coastline on your doorstop? Abergynant Farm is the place for you. It is located 10 miles from traditional seaside town of Fairbourne and 8 miles from sandy shores of Barmouth Beach. The working farm is nestled in a woodland valley with stunning scenery surrounding the farm and alongside popular walking trails like the Snowdonia National Trail.

The family run farm hosts many self catered cottages, my favourite the Woolly Wagon is a traditional wooden wagon. This home from home overlooks rolling fields and paddocks of livestock. It is able to comfortably sleep 4 with hot water, heating, full kitchen amities and charming sheep decor throughout. With it’s excellent location, friendly farmstay atmosphere and complimentary Welsh cakes this is the perfect relaxing place to start your adventures whilst exploring West Wales. Check out their website and AirBnB 5 star reviews link here…

I took a few pictures of some of the spaces and homemade key features which have been loving handmade by Richard the owner and farmer.

After relaxing and settling into the Woolly Wagon, I decided to go off and explore the local surrounds on my weekend away. Feel free to use my itinerary on your travels if you’re heading to the area and remember to tag me on your adventures @vanlifewithluci on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

Day 1

Cregennan Lakes

I woke up to sheep and horses eating their breakfast and roaming the grounds of the farm. After soaking in these charming farm scenes. I grabbed my swimming costume and headed for the nearby Cregennan Lakes. This is a National Trust site, which is well maintained with parking, picnic benches, toilets and closed gates. After you take the turning off the main road you will snake a single road track through a thick ancient woodland. To me it resembles Lothlorien out of the Lord of The Rings, green thick moss covers the trees and rocks due to the rolling mist of the sea and mountains together. Passengers get ready to jump out and open the 3 gates up to the top of the plateau. At the last gate remember to breath as you’ll roll over into another mountainous world. The route up is narrow and motorhomes and large vans would struggle around the hairpins as there is only limited passing places. The landscape opens up to to a large lake surrounded by dramatic mountain cliffs with swaths of sea air billowing in from the the West. Take a walk around the lake itself or take a steep walk up one of the surrounding hills.

Click here for the address which is less than a ten minute drive from the Farm.

Arthog Waterfalls

Following the A493 southbound will take you the traditional hamlet of Arthog, with a smash of stone and slate traditional terrace houses and a manor house up on the hill. In the woodlands lies Arthog Falls, there are a few waterfalls. There is only on road parking and it is not well visited. There is a signpost near the church, which says public right of way and a path up the hill take it and walk a steep 1/4 of a mile until you hear the water and come to a stone bridge. There are several shallow pools on either side of the bridge, but please be careful dipping in colder temperatures if you are not used to it as this could lead to cold water shock.

Click here for the address which is less than a ten minute drive from the Farm.

A short drive West from the farm will take you to Barmouth, there a wooden traditional shortcut bridge you can take imbetween 8-6pm to take across the water. You can also turn left at Dolgellau and stop off at Cymer Abbey to see the ruins. If you fancy more of a road trip into Snowdonia take the drive head North to Harlech to see the castle and the dunes you’ll also be treated to a drive through the Cody Bren Forest en route there.

Barmouth is a traditional quaint Welsh seaside town. It’s Georgian architecture and brightly coloured rendered houses make a pretty scene set against the hills. A nice family pit stop, the town comes complete with arcades, ice cream parlours and fish and chip shops so it made for the perfect afternoon stop off. I personally had a go at the 2p machines to try and bag myself a fun surprise, but to no avail! I went for a short stroll around the souvenir shops, then a long walk the beach followed by a sea dip. To warm up afterwards a welcome portion of fish and chips and hot coffee was needed before I scampered back to the Woolly Wagon for a hot shower.

Day 2

After a slow morning in the wagon, I opted for a hiking day as the weather was looking better than the Saturday. There was still a level of cloud sticking to the hills, but I decided to climb Cadair Idris. I have already completed this hike to the summit, so I thought even if the weather turned part way up even if I don’t get to the summit would be fun.

Penygader is located a few miles from the farm. The rocky, 2,930-ft top of Cadair Idris is popular with hikers for it’s dramatic lake & valley views. Cadair Idris is a mountain in the historic county of Meirionnydd. The peak, which is one of the most popular in Wales for walkers and hikers, is composed largely of Ordovician igneous rocks, with classic glacial erosion. The Pony Path is the quickest route up to the ridgeline and has been stepped in places to make for easier access. Unfortunately on the day I hiked, the clouds gave no views above 2500 ft however, the hike was still fun and gave some splendid views lower down in the valley. The parking point is called Ty Nant if you would like to find out more about the walk, click here.

If you fancy the hike, especially in the winter. Please ensure to take a path finding app or map with you and sensible walking boots and waterproof and thermal outdoor walking gear. There are lots in local guidebooks with trail guides. I personally prefer the OS Maps App or All Trails and download the map offline as there will little signal at the top of the mountain as I like to keep a gps track on where I am on the paths. For checking the weather I would also suggest using the Moutain Forecast, click here to check it out. I saw plenty of people hiking with children or over 50 and the Pony Path is a well walked welcome path for people of all ages and abilities. There are toilets and picnic benches in the car park and if you pay for 4 hours, you should be fine to head up and down to the summit in this time. It took me just over three hours to get up to nearly the top and back down and still have time for a sandwich and coffee break in the car park before heading home.

If you would like to follow more of my future adventures please give me a follow here by clicking the subscribe button below, or follow me at Vanlifewithluci on Instagram. If you would like to donate and contribute directly to my adventures please click here and buy me a coffee or send me some petrol money, all contributions are really appreciated.

Discover West Wales

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Why Wales?

If you like stunning scenery, great food, untouched landscapes, historical heritage, and the tongue twisting fun of the Welsh phonetical language. Then Wales has it all you can be at a coastline in an hour or the mountains, lakeside or forest. It’s diversity of urban and protected parks are beautiful. With only a week before the end of the summer holidays I took full advantage of the bank holiday by going on a micro adventure around Wales with no time to loose. With just 7 days to pack in as much adventure, as I could and savour the last taste of summer I packed out the van in the 30 degree heat of the bank holiday and headed down the M6 to Wales.

My route around Wales

walks

I started with my trip with a hike in the Brecon Beacons with a hike to the Llyn y Fan Fawr  at the foot of Fan Brycheiniog, the highest peak of the Black Mountain range. You are formally asked not to sleep next to the start of the trail as it is inside the national park. But there are plenty of stops outside the park where you can park up overnight to start the trail early in the morning. Under the recommendation of Welsh educator and general outdoor legend Hue James. I took the turning to the left onto the single track road north to the left of the A4067 after Glyntawe. Following the River Tawe I parked on the side of the road and hiked up the hill and crossed the river multiple times to take and took a grassy path up to the tarn. The trail is quite and I didn’t pass anybody all afternoon. It follows the river to the tarn and past numerous waterfalls. This time of year the beautiful Rowen trees where all shining with red berries framing the water filled crevice’s in the landscapes with bright ref flashes of colour. You can hike up and around the tarn in less than an hour and to then climb the mountain and ridgeline behind it I would give another hour as there are moderate to difficult sections of steep steps and scrambling slabbed sections. As it is also the highest peak it’s very windy up at the top, however on the day I went it was a warm and sunny day and I was fine treading the path at the top. But in the winter and snow I imagine it is a very different story up there.

On my way back down to the van I also snuck in a swim to cool my achy feet in one of the many waterfalls as it was so quite and beautiful!

My next walk was over in the Mumbles and the Worm over at Rhossili with their dramatic cliffs and super accessible car parks it was a great afternoon out. Rhossili beach is especially beautiful but if you time park at the national trust car park and buy a doughnut and head over on the cliff top walk to see the dramatic cliffs and the best of the peninsular islands ragged and jagged sticking out of the sea to the backdrop of sandy beaches. It’s a stunning place. Just be careful when your sitting down eating your lunch your are set upon by the Shaun the sheep’s terrorists companions…TICKS. Sheep roam the National Trusts land there. Lots of ticks in the headland there so check your legs before you leave!

Windswept and interesting with Rhossili beach in the background

views from the cliff looking out the islands

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Thanks @hygee for the awesome polarised sunglasses

My last walk was to stomp out onto the PCP or Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. I have walked sections of the path before and know about it’s tenacious ascents up and down and how sections can be steep but offering some of the best coastal scenery with wildlife, flora and fora that Wales has to offer. I walked the few km to the Witches Cauldron situated near Moylegrove in Cardigan. There cast against the cavernous coastline resides a lonely collapsed cave. The subsequent erosion and tidal pooling means this has now formed into a beautiful hole in the highcliff face. The natural pooling of water that makes this a popular attraction for the area as twice a day the sea rises and falls making travelling through the low hanging walls of the cave entrance scary, but beautiful as the light fills the water and creates the most amazing green coloured sea. You feel like your swimming through a potion!

Me and Andrew love to swim. This is at our local at Chasewater reservoir

This was hands down my favourite experience of the trip. I swam down from the cove and out to sea and came back on myself entering the cave by swimming through a small entrance in the cave, which was filled with speckled sunlight from the sunny day. I then reached the opening and was greeted by a small pool with a pebble scree beach and a waterfall at the west exit of the pool where there is a small hole where water can travel through to the other side.

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Head out at the bottom of the cover and out into the bay like we are here then turn right and double back on yourself to come through the cave in high tide.

The other side of the cave

SUP

I went for a walk, fish and chips to meet a van friend in Saundersfoot. Despite the busy pubs and bustling towns streets. The beach is beautiful and there are quite places to walk. Me and Homer blew up my paddleboard and headed out for a Sunset SUP in the bay and watched a perfect sunset sky change its colours as the stars began to come out.

Sunset on over the bay from the water

I had a great time exploring the bay making a new friend and a lovely paddle! I would definitely come back again, parking is super easy when parking east of the bay near the pub right on the sea front.

Parking on the seafront

Swim and SUP with new friends

On route up north I would also suggested in Pothmadog and Harlech beach and pretty town and if your passing Port Merion is a stunning afternoon out. A scenic place with you feel like your on a film set due to its neo classical architecture and colour Sicilian Italian contours. Set against the sea and welsh mountains. I really enjoyed the animal reserve and dunes are Harlech beach which if you walk from the top of the hill in the town about a half an hour down the sea steep walk past the iconic castle. Harlech is a stunning place and the beach on a summers day is a shallow light blue set against white sands.

Me and Sarah enjoying the best of the Welsh Summer weather! It was HOT HOT HOT! Thank you to Selkie for my beautiful swim suit, hoody and cap kitting me out with some the best British swim wear!

Walking the beach at Port Meirion

Hat selfie fail. When your sun hat is so big it blocks out your mate in the photo!

What an end to a wonderful solo trip in my last week of the holidays, meeting old friends and making new ones and seeing some beautiful places. West Wales is truly stunning and a must see place to tour in a van.