Tag: Coastal Path

Anglesey Stepping Stones

Anglesey Stepping stones is another of this great little island hidden gems. They are often referred to as the Giant’s Stepping Stones or the Rhuddgaer Stepping Stones.

The stepping stones are hidden away and are easy to miss unless you are walking the Anglesey Coastal Path. This means that the area is usually quite quiet when you visit.

The Anglesey Stepping Stones provides a bridge of sorts over the River, Afon Braint. It allows walkers to continue on the Anglesey coastal path. Afon Braint is a tidal river which means whenever you visit the area it may look different. During low tides the water is low and travelling down stream, as the tide rises the water flows upstream and it’s depth increases. If you are crossing the stones bear in mind they can be covered in water at high tide. No good if you are parked on the opposite side! You will have to wait for the tide to recede to cross again, high tides occur around every 12.5 hours.

The Giants Stepping Stones

28 stone blocks make up this impromtu river crossing and each one weighs a couple of tons. It’s one of Angleseys best man made structures, why is that? The scenery around the area is stunning with mountains to the east. Moreover the flowing river just adds to the general ambience of the area. As an adult close to my forties I couldn’t wait to try out the giant’s stepping stones. I was like a kid in a toy shop!

Speaking of children, I was fine crossing the stones but some of the gaps. However some may be a little wide for lone smaller children, they will love it anyway.

The Stepping stones are quite close the the Anglesey Model village. If you are visiting there you can use the car park. If not the closest park is on the free one at Llyn Rhos Ddu Google maps link.

If you see this you are in the right place

It’s around a mile or so walk from here, head back up the A4080 until you see the sign for the coastal path. Head down this lane, the walk is flat and pleasant enough. You will find the Anglesey Stepping stones at the end of the pathway.

The lane down to the stepping Stones

The exact location is HERE, click to link and Google maps will help you find them if you get lost.

The closest toilets are not public and are at the Anglesey Model Village why not call in for a brew.
Cemlyn Bay

Cemlyn Bay is a stunningly special location on the north west coast of Anglesey. The bay consists of a steep shingle beach stretching over 600 metres round with rocky outcrops to the right. Cemlyn Bay has a little bit for everyone, sea fishing, bird watching or just taking in the beautiful scenery.

The bay is a favourite spot of many anglers but they don’t get on well the resident grey seals! Behind the shingle beach is a man made brackish Lagoon. Cemlyn Bay is home to hundreds of sea birds and has the only breeding Sandwich Terns in Wales. These both make up part of the Cemlyn Bay nature reserve.

The Cemlyn estate is owned by the National Trust and is a designated area of outstanding natural beauty. It is also an area of special scientific interest and part of Angleseys heritage coast. I told you it was special!

The bay is definitely a place to visit if you particularly enjoy watching various bird species. Plenty of native species are here year round with some migratory ones stopping over.

Parking is plentiful on both sides of the bay and it is currently free. The carpark to the west (Bryn Aber) will put you closer to the birds, its a lot more of an interesting area to explore. The one to the east will leave you with a bit of a walk but its also better for anglers.

You can find Bryn Aber carpark by clicking this link Bryn Aber

Cemlyn Bay car park directions are available HERE

The closest toilets are in Cemaes on the main road LL67 0HH or the beach car park LL67 0ND
Penrhos Coastal Park

Penrhos coastal park is located just outside of Holyhead and has a bit of everything. The park is a jack of all trades but actually comes close to mastering them all. History, sea, and wildlife are blended into one fantastic park to visit. The park covers an area of around 200 acres too so there’s plenty of room.

First off there is ample parking and its free too which is an added bonus. Moreover its super easy to find as it’s just off the Cob. That’s the A5 Stanley Embankment which is the original road to Holy island before the A55 was built.

We were not sure where to start with this one as it has plenty of things to take in so here we go.

Red Squirrels

What’s not to love? There are enough of these rarer squirrels to makes the trip alone. You may see them as you walk through the wooded paths. Better still there are a few “feeding stations” where they have become used to getting easy food. The squirrels have become a little more used to people watching them. No sudden movements or barking dogs and they will happily let you watch them.

Walking and Cycling

Penrhos Coastal park is a great place for walking, jogging and Cycling. There are loads of paths around the site. Further more it’s part of the Anglesey coastal path and national cycle route 8 to Holyhead. At low tide there are sections of the beach which you can also use.

Private Beach

What a cracker, Private beach is also known as the hidden or secret beach. It can only be reached by walking through Penrhos Coastal Park. It’s backed soft sand and is quite extensive at low tide. Moreover the views are decent too with views of the breakwater and Anglesey. You may also spot the ferrys as they come and go from Holyhead Port.

Pet Cemetery

This one might not be for everyone but its in the woods and you will probably stumble upon it. It’s Penrhos most quirkier feature with some stones dating back to the 70’s. It’s definitely pretty enough with Bluebells growing among the stones and it’s still in use to date.

Fishing

Sea anglers will target the fish that come in with the flowing tide. Some will use lures and fish around the Stanley Embankment others bottom fish. Different species caught in this area including more elusive Garfish and smoothhounds. This is as well as Bass, Dabs, Whiting and dogfish that are numerous in the area.

If your feeling peckish or fancy a drink there is a burger van on the carpark. You also have the option of a sit down meal at the cafe next to the entrance.

The address for the coastal park is:

42 Stanley Avenue, Valley, Holyhead LL65 2JE

There are toilets on the main car park.
Newborough Beach

Newborough Beach is vast expanse of sand from Llanddwyn Island down to the start of the Menai Strait.

Dare I say it has the most stunning scenery on Anglesey, backed by Newborough pine forest and vast sandy dunes of Newborough Warren. To the east are the mountains of Snowdonia, South the rolling Llyn Peninsula hills. Last but far from least, west is the tranquil and beautiful Llandwyn Island.

Look at those stunning views

Soft sand nestles to the rear of the beach, there is also plenty to the east among the sand dunes. Moreover, if its a bit breezy you can head into the dunes to the east Literally miles of pathways with various entry points back on to the beach. Keep your eyes out for the lizards that call the dunes home. To the west are the pine forests complete with rare Red Squirrels.

Dog friendly area

Newborough Beach is favored not just by beach lovers, walkers, fishermen but waters sports enthusiasts too. The general wind direct is from the south west making it perfect for wind kites etc. It is also a great place to launch Kayaks from, check out the area around Llanddwyn Island if you launch here.

The beach itself is quite shallow, leaving a vast expanse of beach as the tide recedes. This makes it generally safe for bathing and swimming, weather permitting. There is no lifeguard presence here which is something to be aware of.

Dogs are allowed year round which is different from many other beach’s on Anglesey. This only applies to the section east of the carpark. To the west of the carpark to Llanddwyn Island there are restrictions between 1st May to the end of September. This also applies to Llanddwyn Island, there are no restrictions covering Newborough Forest.

A vast expanse of blue sky and ocean

There is large car park complete with toilets that has plenty of space and in summer an ice cream van. To the rear of the beach behind the dunes is a great place for a picnic or to get out of any wind. This area is referred to as the Newborough Warren and its great trying to spot the local lizards here.

If you need any essentials there is a shop (Premier) not too far away in the village of Newborough. You should see it before the last road turning for Newbourgh Beach in the village.

Close by there are a couple of caravan and camping places where you can walk through the forest down to the beach. It is a bit of a trek if you have the kids with you though.

If this beach had a money back guarantee nothing would be paid back, ever. Its absolutely stunning. Most definitely in the top 10 beaches in Anglesey without a doubt. Do not miss out on this gem of a beach, even if your not planning on staying for the day. You will be amazed by the views and scenery with so much to explore.

If you visit Newborough beach and fancy a nice walk, pay a visit to Llanddwyn island. You will kick yourself if you miss this other local gem. You have the option of walking down the beach or through the woods. You can often see a seal or two and if you are lucky Porpoise frequent the area.

You can find it here, Newborough Beach, Traeth Llanddwyn, Newborough, LL61 6SG

Newborough Beach Post Code LL61 6SG, it is often referred to as Llanddwyn beach. The closest toilets are on the main car park.
Anglesey Outdoors

Anglesey Outdoors is on the South West coast of Anglesey, just off the road from Holyhead to Porth Dafarch. A Fantastic location sat within its own 14 acres of ground and only 5 minutes walk from the closest beach.

Choose your level of comfort by staying in the onsite accommodation or bring your own, its your call. Anglesey Outdoors really does have all options covered, a lot more besides too (tried and tested).

The main building can accommodate various group sizes from 1,2,3,5 up to 10 if needed. There are dorm style rooms complete with en suites, if you’re travelling alone there’s an open dorm with bunk beds at minimal cost. Just bring your own sleeping bag and you are sorted.

Spread across the site there are other forms of accommodation such as Cabans, Eco Dens, Yurts and Pods. Moreover there is also room for caravans and tents too, the natural landscape helps offer a bit of seclusion by separating the different parts.

The entire place can be hired out if needed, it happens quite regular by group’s and schools. For a good reason too, Anglesey Outdoors offers a selection of outdoor courses which are available to all.

Coasteering, paddleboarding, rock climbing are all available to anyone one staying or not (for a charge of course). The guides who lead the courses are great, most of which live on the centre year round. Moreover this helps them know the local area like the back of their hands, which makes them safe hands to be in.

Porth Dafarch is only 5 mins walk away, a safely tucked in cove offering shelter from the wind. Ideal for learning to paddleboard, this also make the area a popular launching spot with Kayakers.

Literally everything you need is onsite to make your stay as comfortable. Drying rooms and showers are right outside to main building should you need them.

After a hard day scouring the sea by kayak or doing a bit of adventurous coastering it’s time to relax. Where better than “The Paddlers Return” a great little onsite bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Beer and generous meals are available at reasonable prices too, a pool table too if you fancy it. The boating theme helps add to the ambiance of the building, you can also learn a lot about the local history from the walls.

There are plenty of things that make Anglesey Outdoors stand out, the staff are definitely the first. From meet and great to general interaction they are amazing, coupled with a fantastic location with everything you need to have a memorable trip. Check them out.

Oh, and if you fancy a dip after all your adventures there is a wood fired hot tub available at £25 per hour. Seating up to 12 there is plenty of room for all the family or group.

Close to Trearddur Bay, South Stack, Holyhead and the only retail park on the island. Yet it still feels your are far from civilisation. Tried and tested

Anglesey Outdoors can be found here

Porthdafarch Rd, Holyhead LL65 2LP

For further information and bookings please visit https://www.angleseyoutdoors.com/
Dolphins

Anglesey Dolphins – there are two main types of Porpoise that regularly visit the islands coast. These are the Harbour Porpoise and the Bottlenose Dolphin.

Harbour Porpoise are true to their name, they stick to shallower waters closer to the shore. They prefer coolers water, often inhabiting harbours and outer estuary areas. These are the smallest porpoise in European waters, only reaching about up to around 1.5 metres in length. They do not breach from the sea on a regular basis like other species and often stay clear of boats. You will however spot them easily enough as their backs and small triangular dorsal fins clear the water.

Bottlenose Dolphins are very different from their Harbouse Porpoise cousins. They will often fully breach the water giving great displays. They are a very curious and intelligent mammals. Moreover they will often approach boats to check them and their occupants and will, when playful travel in the boats wake. The Bottlenose Dolphin grow up to around 4 metres in length and are identifiable by there more sickle shaped dorsal fin. The UK biggest pod of these dolphins lives to the south of Anglesey in Cardigan Bay.

As well as porpoise there are other marine animal that regularly visit the coasts of Anglesey such the Minke Whale, these can grow up to 10 metres in length. Though these are usually seen further out from shore by the boats.

Several species of turtle visit the coastline in search food like jellyfish in summer. Seals also have colonies around the island and are commonly seen around the coastal path. Oh and last but not least, two killer Whales were spotted off South Stack in June 2018, part of a pod that live around the Hebrides in Scotland.

What will you see?
Porth Dafarch

Porth Dafarch is located between Trearrdur Bay and South Stack on the coastal road. It is a national Trust owned beach with both on and off road parking. Moreover it has toilets which always a bonus on such a remote beach.

A cracking little beach which is very popular in the summer months with tourists and people using kayaks. Due to its sheltered nature it is very often used by kayak as a safe launching and landing point though out the entire year, with suitable weather of course. Just further out into the bay divers also frequent these sheltered waters as the area is full of marine life, there are also several wrecks just off the coast.

Anglers can also be seen on occasion from the rocky outcrops. Just around the bay is an area known as mackerel rock, made famous by its regular catches of Mackerel

The beach itself offers nice soft sand to the rear with plenty of rock pools around for the kids to explore. Fish, crabs, prawns, anemone can all be found here. It’s not too far from Trearddur bay which has shops and restaurants should you need them.

The headlands around the beach are often used by coasteering groups, there are several companies offering this activity. Anglesey outdoors is perfectly placed just around the corner, they offers others courses too. Great for active familys or as an experience in itself, however jumping from cliffs into the sea wont suit everyones tastes!

Further west is South Stack, Holyhead mountain and the visible remains of Neolithic round houses. So plenty to see and do in the area.

Just around the corner is Anglesey Outdoors, you can stay on site in the various accommodation on offer. Dorms, camping or glamping it caters for all styles and budgets. Moreover they offer various activities with trained guides for schools, groups or individuals.

Porth Dafarch is a very popular beach in all seasons, well worth checking out. A real memory maker, moreover like a lot of beaches around Anglesey it is simply stunning when the sun shines.

Porth Dafarch beach can be found here Porthdafarch Rd, Holyhead LL65 2LS

Closest Toilets are directly behind the beach 15 March – 30 September only.

Dog are not allowed on the beach from the 1st May until 30th September.
Holyhead Mountain

Holyhead Mountain is the highest mountain on Holy Island and Anglesey, its peak reaches 220 metres or 720 feet. Moreover it has a diverse ecology as well as several sites of historical significance. Though officially its not classed a mountain.

An ideal location for a ramble! Numerous paths navigate around or over the mountain taking in different abilities, each one has its own merits. There are several parking areas on different sides of the mountain for you to choose, allowing to get closer to the areas you would like to see.

Given its size there really is so much to see around the mountain. Central paths towards the summit have a broad range of wildlife, including snakes and lizards! The coastal paths offer fantastic views out to sea, chances of seeing seals are high. Dolphins and Harbour Porpoise are also seen around this section of coast. As the weather warms up you may even see a basking sharks in the area.

Historical sites or feature points are dotted around the mountain too, North Stack and its cove full of seals are great to watch, further more South Stack is a haven for sea birds. The nest sites dot the cliffs from April to July with thousand of birds. Puffins nest in the area and the rare Chough is found in its highest numbers across Wales.

I suppose the bucket list item is to walk up to the summit. From here you can almost see across the entire island, Ireland is visible on clearer days.

There are climbers that regularly attempt to sheer south facing side of the mountain, it looks fun but its not to every ones tastes! The mountain is also a great place to bring your dogs, there is tons of space and miles of path ways. Just be careful on the summit as they like to run around, dog forget to bag it and bin it too.

Close to the summit are the remains of an old roman watchtower known as
Caer y Twr, beleived to sit within the remains of an Iron Age hillfort. There are also remains of stone circle huts in the vacinity. It is believed these date from around the 3rd century.

On the South West coast of the mountain is South Stack and its RSPB visitors centre complete with cafe and toilets. Home to huge colonies of birds, moreover, you can watch these from Ellins Tower. You may even get a glimpse of the resident Peregrine falcons. On the approach to the visistors centre you will see a small carpark on your left. Park here and just across the road you will find Ty Mawr, a collection of stone hut circles around 2000 years old.

Parking can be found at RSPB Visitor centre, Holyhead LL65 1YH (here is best)

Or

Breakwater Country Park, Holyhead, LL65 1YG LL65 1YG

Whats on your list? Get out and find it!

The closest toilets are at the Holyhead Breakwater Country Park LL65 1YG or the RSPB building at South Stack.
Peregrine Falcon

Peregrine Falcons are just one of the special bird species that call Anglesey home. These fantastic birds are amazing in every way, bold, beautiful and have a special skill.

The Peregrine Falcon is the king when it comes to speed, they are the fastest bird on the planet. Tucking their wings in they able to reach speeds of up to 240mph in a dive. 40mph faster than the second fastest bird on the speed list. It is also the largest Falcon in the UK reaching a wing span of 74cm – 120cm, which is quite a formidable size.

These fabulous birds of prey call Anglesey home year round, they nest in high structures whether man made or natural. We were lucky enough to see one diving down past us on the Britannia Bridge during summer.

A great place to try and spot one are the high sea cliffs of South Stack, an RSPB managed area. There is a Cafe, toilets and viewing area at the site too.

Parking charges have been recently introduced at the site but they are fairly reasonable. Not only home to the Peregrine Falcon but also rare choughs call the area home. In the summer months you can also see Puffins nesting on South Stack cliffs.
Breakwater Country Park

Holyhead Breakwater Park sits at the foot of Holy Mountain, walking, history and wildlife.

The breakwater Park highlights the industrial heritage of the area. The remain of the chimney clearly visible, up close the Kilns from the old brick works are in decent condition given their age. The mountain to the rear shows sign of its quarrying past. There were 11 active quarries at one point, the stone of which was used to build Holyhead Breakwater.

Today the park is suited for leisurely walks with access to the mountain and surrounding countryside. There is plenty of wildlife around on whichever paths you choose to take, rabbits, butterfly’s, rare Chough’s or even the fastest bird in the world, the Peregrine Falcon call this place home.

Stick to the coastal path for even more stunning scenery with all of the above but with a chance to see marine animals too. Seals call this section of rocky coastline home and are seen quite regular, Bottlenose Dolphins and Harbour Porpoise can be seen at times passing by. They truly are a magical sight and awe inspiring for all that see them.

Closer to the parking area which is pay and display there is a good cafe, with a childrens play park. I have tried and tested the £4.99 breakfast which was spot on. There is a good size fishing pond if you fancy relaxing the day away, it is well looked after. The cafe is close and toilets are a 2 minute walk away. There is also a water fountain you can drink from or fill up your water bottles. A rarity these days.

The Breakwater Park has a bit of something for everyone.

You can find it here, Breakwater Country Park, Holyhead, LL65 1YG

For further information on Parc Gwledig Morglawdd Caergybi, Breakwater Country Park, please visit https://www.anglesey.gov.uk/en/Residents/Countryside/Holyhead-Breakwater-Country-Park.aspx

The closest toilets are at the country park and are open year round LL65 1YG.
Holyhead Breakwater

Holyhead Breakwater is located on Holy island which is part of Anglesey in Wales. The Breakwater is the longest in the UK, its 1.7 miles in length. The breakwater protects the harbour and the docking ferries from the prevailing westerly winds.

There are two paths along the Holyhead breakwater, the upper and lower. Moreover there are steps at sections should you wish the have a closer look at either. The upper section is solid stone and pretty much flat, there is no hand / safety rail on the inside along the entire length. The outer side has a wall for safety, the views out to sea are spectacular. You can see the Skerries in the distance and the ferries coming in and out of the bay. It also ideal for cycling and should speed up your journey to the end, its quite a wide path so has plenty of room.

The lower section is loose and compacted gravel it is still fine to walk and cycle on. It is also considerably wider than the upper path, again there is no fencing on the water side. Something to be aware of if you have younger children with you.

Holyhead Breakwater is also a Mecca for fisherman, there are loads of species, big and small. Charter boats also run from the marina, these go out fishing over the numerous wrecks and reefs in the area.

The walk back is just as stunning with great views of the sea front and in particular, Holyhead Mountain making a great backdrop.

If you take a look down the inward side of the breakwater during summer you can sometimes see fish. Moreover seals are often seen swimming in the marina.

There is ample free parking at the start of the breakwater as access to cars is no longer allowed.

It’s definitely worth the walk, exercise, fresh air a stunning views. Why not?

Holyhead Breakwater can be found here,

https://goo.gl/maps/8jg4ShmhEm72

Holyhead LL65 1YF
Cable Bay

Cable Bay or Porth Trecastell is located between the town of Rhosneigr and Anglesey Circuit. Soft sandy beach to the rear and quite large when the tide is out, it is bordered by cliffs on either side so is relatively sheltered for bathing.

Popular with families due to its sheltered nature, on summer days it can feel like a sun trap. It is also a favorite among the Kayaking fraternity with its calm waters. There is also a section used by divers on the right hand side, the location is perfect for divers. Crystal clear waters and an abundance of marine wildlife. Moreover the rocks on the end of the cove is a venue often fished by sea anglers.

On a personal note I have seen dolphins here on several occasions, passing the end of the bay. There are videos created by divers showing the diverse marine life, blue Lobsters are seen regular in this area.

As the tide retreats sections of the beach open up to reveal rockpools which are always a family favorite. The amount of creatures you can find is amazing, Prawns, Fish and Sea Anemone are numerous.

Parking is directly behind the beach and is now pay and display but not expensive at £4 for the day. In summer there is usually an ice cream van or catering van parked up. No toilets though, there are some at the rear of Tyn Tywyn Beach towards Rhosneigr. I would advise walking as your parking spot will be taken in seconds!

Cable Bay Anglesey is definitely in the top 10 of beaches on the island.

You can find Cable Bay, Anglesey at LL64 5JR

Cable bay is so called due to the cable laid down in 1902. This was a link to Ireland that then went on to America though it’s no longer in use.

Closest toilets are on the car park behind the beach at Tyn Tywyn but they are not always open. Rhosneigr library car park does have public toilets with a 20p charge. LL64 5YJ

Tag: Coastal Path

Red Squirrels

Walking and Cycling

Private Beach

Pet Cemetery

Fishing