The Pembrokeshire Coastal Path.

Running along the scenic and rugged coastline of Wales for 186 miles, most of the Pembroke Coast Path is within the borders of the Pembroke Coast National Park. This shoreline stretch has beaches, coves and cliffs. Along the way, people will find hiking for all levels of skill and ability.

While the entire route is quite an accomplishment for the serious hiker with the inclines and descents as intense as those known to mountain climbers, anyone can select a portion of the trail for day walks in the beauty of nature.

Fascinating things are seen all along the winding pathway. The trail is the place to find birds of many types, wildlife and native plants and trees. Many lovely wildflowers grow along the path. Historic sites are also found on the journey, different ones dating from the Neolithic period to recent times. Small towns dot the coast, offering welcome and a taste of authentic Welsh culture. The area provides much to see and do on and off the trail.

Path Overview

Located in Southwest Wales, the pathway begins near Cardigan. The spot where it starts is beside the boat ramp north of St Dogmaels, and the trail ends at the bridge on the east side of Amroth Castle. The small, historic walled town of Tenby is situated on the shore close to that bridge. Besides the Amroth Castle and Tenby, Manorbier and Pembroke are Norman towns with castles. The pathway has a total of about 70 different beaches, several intriguing industrial ruins and about 40 forts from Roman times. When walkers keep going, the entire path takes about 10 or 12 days.

Sections of the Path

Choosing one section of the pathway can help trip planners get an idea of what to expect from the trail. For instance in the distance between Fishguard and Newport, the distance could be one day of leisure walking covering about 12 miles of ground. Within that stretch is found sites like an old lifeboat station, Aberfforest Bay and Fishguard Fort. People can choose one and two mile lengths of trail such as walking from Aberfforest Bay to Soar Hill. Cwm-yr-Eglwys Wheelchair Path is paved and smooth, and it is in an attractive area of the coast. People can read about the different towns, areas and sites and decide what part of the path they will walk.

Another interesting section is between St. Justinian and Newgale Beach. The distance is 18 miles starting at a lifeboat station and shore where passenger boats take people out to Ramsey Island. Walking along the shore, the view of the distant Ramsey Island is stunning. The waters have rugged rock formations in them. At St. Noir's Bay are the ruins of a chapel dating from the mid-400s AD. Then, Newgale Beach is a popular place for water sports. The beach is stony. Visitors can go boating or enjoy the view from the beach-side pub.

Something for Everyone on Wales' Coast

The Pembroke Coast Path has something for everyone. Young and old can come out and walk the trail, explore ruins and take part in recreation at the beaches. The path embraces Wales' rugged and gorgeous southwestern shoreline where clean breezes and adventures are found. If you're looking for somewhere to stay while exploring the coastal path and the beauty that Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and West Wales has to offer, why not consider Penlan holiday village, which has a variety of lodges and luxury log cabins on their site.