From the wild coast of Snowdonia, to the Pembrokeshire coastal walks, there are few places that offer such dramatic and beautiful scenery as the largely untouched Welsh coastline. So, whether it’s a family weekend away or a trip to capture these places of beauty forever on camera, there is something for everyone when visiting the arfordir Cymru (Welsh coastline).

• Where to go walking
• Finding those fossils
• Hot spots for the family
• Favourites for photographers
• Having the best Welsh hotel

Where To Go Walking

Walkers visiting the Welsh coastline are unlikely to leave without checking out the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – and for this there is good reason.

Of course, the main attraction for walkers will be the Pembrokeshire Coast Path - regarded as one of the world’s best long-distance paths. Running for 186 miles, passing 58 beaches and 14 harbours, it can be enjoyed repeatedly, whilst never encountering the same section twice.

Within the park there are more than 200 circular walks to choose from, including some that are easily accessible.

Highlights among these walks include:

• The Green Bridge of Wales, an arch way formed in the limestone rocks by years or erosion, which can be found near Castlemartin.
• The Cemaes Head walk is a great place for animal lovers, with seals enjoying the area as well as birds, from Kestrels to buzzards. Keen eyed visitors may even catch sight of a bottlenose dolphin in the bay.
• The Porthgain to Whitesands 10 mile walk is one that captures picturesque scenes, to rugged cliffs, through to a ruined settlement at Abereiddy beach.

Along all these walks are many breath-taking views that can only be found in the wilds of Wales, so be sure to take some time during your trip to visit this area.

Finding those fossils

Known as the Jurassic coast the Glamorgan Heritage Coast in Wales is the perfect site for anyone wanting to find some fossils.

The location is an excellent place to uncover special finds due to the age of the rocks, which date back to the Jurassic period around 300 million years ago. In the past, finds have included some lesser known dinosaur bones as well as regularly found fossilised giant seashells.

Aside from the wonders of the past that can be found here, the Glamorgan Heritage Coast is also home to some picturesque towns and villages, as well as boasting miles of walking paths offering visitors the chance to explore this remote coastline on foot.  

Another great spot for explorers is the nearby Lavernock Point, near Cardiff, regarded as the best place on the Welsh coastline to find dinosaurs. In the past, at this location the meat eating Dracoraptor hanigani was found at the base of a collapsed coastal cliff at Lavernock Point in March 2014.

There are also bone beds in this area, where teeth, scales and bones can be found alongside fossilised dung and dinosaur footprints!

Hot spots for the family

Whilst Wales is a great place for the whole family, there are, of course, particular hotspots perfect for families along the coastline.

The area of Snowdonia holds many adventures for the family, especially those looking for some exhilarating fun. For the family of walkers is the Snowdonia peak, which can be tackled on foot via various routes, or alternatively reach Clogwyn by train.

Zip World is a must visit for families looking for a thrill, located in Penrhyn Quarry, near Bethesda. Home to the longest zip line in the northern hemisphere, Zip World Velocity is one mile long and reaches a great speed. If you’re a lover of adventure this is one not to be missed.

Another area that is a popular family destination is the area of Pembrokeshire. Caldey Island can be found just a few miles off the Pembrokeshire Welsh coastline. The island is one of the British Holy Islands and traditions started in the 6^th century by Celtic monks are still to this day observed by the Cistercian order on the island.

Families visiting the island can take the ferry trip from Monday to Saturday from Tenby harbour – being sure to keep an eye out for seals! On arrival enjoy the architecture of the monastery, walks in the woods and of course, a small chocolate factory.

Favourites for photographers

For anyone who enjoys capturing more than just beautiful scenery, Borth Sands on the Welsh Ceredigion coast is a must visit. The location is part of the Dyfi Biosphere, which is the only UNESCO Biosphere reserve in Wales, and can be visited by all – including walkers rambling along the Ceredigion Coast Path.

But the coastal beach has more to offer than beauty. At low tide on the beach between Borth and Ynslas the remains of a 4,000-year-old forest, preserved by a nearby peat bog, can be seen. When the tree stumps become visible, they create striking structures jutting from the sand and are a perfect picture moment.

This coastal area of Cardigan Bay holds more mystery as it is often told the ancient kingdom of Cantre’r Gwaelod, or the Lost Hundred, can be found sunken under the sea here.

Finding the best Welsh welcome

A traditional Welsh welcome is what you need after a long day exploring the coastline so be sure to have a plan to stay booked before you head off on your adventure. If you’re planning to be based in north Wales during your stay try the Talardy Hotel, in St Asaph. With breakfast included you’ll be sent on your way in the morning raring to go for the day!

For a seaside location visit Starling Cloud in Aberystwyth. Just a short walk from the main promenade and landmark pier in the centre of the historic town there are few hotels as well situated. And with free parking there’s no reason this hotel can’t be a great place to enjoy your time in Wales.

Located close to the coastline and near Swansea is Sessile Oak in Llanelli. Start your journey of exploration around Wales from here, jump on the nearby M4 and arrive for fossil finding on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast in no time at all!

But wherever you lay your head we can be sure you won’t run out of things to do on the Welsh coastline.