The All-Wales Coast Path opened a year ago this month (May 2012 for all you time travellers reading this), and stretches for almost 900 miles across a wide range of gorgeous landscapes and lush habitats. It has already gained thousands of fans; enthusiastic walkers who have been able to see a new side of Wales.
Along the trail are a number of B&Bs, country pubs and rest stops with good grub, so you won’t be short of things to see or places to rest your tired legs. It’s an easy walk, designed so you won’t struggle at any point, though we wouldn’t recommend doing it all in just one go!
Looking for some inspiration? Some of the best bits are listed below. Enjoy!
Anglesey
Just off the north west of the Welsh coastline, Anglesey is actually an island in itself, only connected to the mainland by two bridges. It’s got those great beaches you’ve heard so much about, and is surrounded by beautiful blue waters.
Whilst you’re in the area, take in the views from the top of Parys Mountain, and the Four Mile Bridge is worth a trek, as it covers all sorts of different terrain.
Ceredigion
In Ceredigion, you have a selection of stunning beaches and seaside towns, but the real stars of the show come from the local wildlife – seals, porpoises and dolphins are very frequently sighted off the coast here!
This is one of the more challenging routes on the Coastal Path, but the views are more than worth the effort.
Snowdonia
No walking tour of Wales would be complete without a visit to the sheer magnificence that is the Snowdonia National Park. It is, of course, home to Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales; but if you don’t fancy the 4.7 mile climb to the top you can simply take the train!
From that snow-covered tip, you can walk to a number of tiny fishing villages, as well as some beautifully clear estuaries and deep, dark forests. Snowdonia has such variety, you could get lost there for days.
The Dee Estuary
Right at the very northernmost tip of the Welsh Coast, the Dee Estuary offers what are arguably the best beaches in all of that hallowed green country. If you head a little inland you will find some gorgeous locations for hiking, like the spectacular Conwy Castle and Conwy Mountain, which changes colour during the summer thanks to masses of purple bell heather.
Llandudno and its famous pier are also nearby, and we would definitely recommend a day out at Talacre beach while you’re there!
The South Wales Coast
Right down at the southern end of the All-Wales Coast Path you’ll find the South Wales coast and the Severn Estuary. The latter of the two is worth a visit for the local fauna alone – it is home to more than 100,000 different wading birds, so you’ll want to bring your binocs!
Cardiff is nearby, so pay a visit to the Welsh capital; then, take-in the miles of ocean and sky from one of the coastal cliffs for a majestic end to your journey.