Wales’ Year of the Sea 2018 – A Celebration of Our Coastline and Shores

This month we’re celebrating the SEA! Situated just a couple of miles from the Cardigan Bay coast and the world-renowned Pembrokeshire Coast National Park (the only coastal National Park in the UK)…the sea plays a big part for us and our holidaying guests.

As part of the Welsh Government’s ongoing campaign of themed years to promote Wales’ tourism to a global audience, 2018 has been designated ‘The Year of the Sea’, hot on the heels of The Year of Adventure and The Year of Legends in 2016 and 2017.

So whether you want to explore our stunning coast from the coastal path and numerous sandy beaches dotted along the coast, get aboard a boat, or have a more immersive experience in the water with all the sea-based activities on our doorstep, there truly is something for everyone.

Strolls and Scrambles

If walking is your thing you’re in luck. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path covers 187 miles from St Dogmaels in the North to Amroth in the South of the County, with a photo-worthy view around every corner. The variety of terrain and views means every section has its own character, from long sandy Blue Flag beaches, to hidden pebbly coves, volcanic headlands, steeply striated cliffs, caves, estuary marshlands and more.

It also means whatever your age or ability we have something you can enjoy – from challenging climbs to get the heart pumping, to leisurely strolls which are family, toddler, pushchair and wheelchair friendly. And the sea will accompany you at every section of your walk.

Make the most of the vast sweeping views of the glittering sea, see what wildlife you can spot, and be sure to pause and enjoy the tumbling streams and tiniest of wildflowers along the way too.

The opportunity to enjoy some wildlife-spotting is extensive, with the resident Cardigan Bay dolphin population, Porpoises, Seals, Jellyfish, the native Welsh Mountain Ponies, plus a huge array of native and migratory sea and marshland birds. Be sure to take your binoculars and allow plenty of time to sit and soak up the sights, sounds and smells of our stunning coastal walks.

Watersports

Our coast is increasingly being enjoyed as a sporting and adventure destination and this is a great opportunity to try something new on your holiday!

If you fancy an adrenalin fuelled activity how about Coasteering? Rocketing in popularity this sport combines scrambling over rocks, jumping into the sea, and safely enjoying the rough and tumble of the power of the sea.

For speed and skill how about trying your hand at surfing or kite-surfing? Or take your time with the more leisurely stand up paddle-boarding which has become very popular in the last couple of years.

Sea-kayaking offers a great way to explore the coast and coves and quietly get up close to lots of the wildlife in the coastal zone. Who knows what marine life you might spot swimming in the clear green waters below you on a calm day. Keep your eyes peeled for inquisitive seals who like to pop up and see what you’re doing!

(Coasteering photo credit: Celtic Quest Coasteering )

Boat Trips and Islands

For an other-worldly adventure take a boat trip to beautiful Skomer Island between late Spring through to the Summer. From the moment you pull into the landing bay harbour teeming with birdlife, you’ll be enchanted. With thousands of the iconic Puffins making their homes and raising their pufflings there, plus the glorious sweep of the bluebells followed by the pink campion flowers it’s a day you’ll never forget.

Another activity which is always popular with our guests is a Bay To Remember Wildlife Watching Boat Trip. On their powerful fixed-rib boats you can choose trips of different lengths, around Cardigan Island, up to Mwnt, across to Cemaes Head and further. Their expert wildlife guides will show you the hidden gems of our coast, and there’s a high chance you’ll be able to get close to the Cardigan Bay dolphins (although not guaranteed of course, as they’re wild animals).

We also have a plethora of sea-fishing opportunities locally – whether it’s fishing from the beach or the rocks, or taking a chartered fishing trip out on one of the local boats. If you’ve got the fish, we’ve got the BBQ – you’ll have great holiday tales to tell of what you caught for dinner…or perhaps the one that got away!

(Wildlife watching boat trips in Cardigan Bay, photo credit: A Bay To Remember )

If you like the idea of taking a break from the hustle and demands of everyday life, with a family-friendly holiday here in beautiful West Wales to enjoy everything our stunning coastal location can offer, please do get in touch to find out more about our cottages, availability, and any special offers we might be running.

Alternatively check out our dates and prices on our Look and Book page here 

We look forward to welcoming you here during Wales’ Year of the Sea!