2014-08-19

Britain’s only coastal National Park, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales, covers 612 square kilometres from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south and includes The Daugleddau Estuary and the Preseli Hills. There is much to explore in, what National Geographic voted as, the second best coastal destination in the world, whether you are planning a relaxing getaway or an active holiday.

Discover the breath-taking scenery and the animals, birds and plants in this protected habitat by walking along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path (part of the Wales Coast Path). The path was opened in 1970 and stretches out 186 miles. To complete the trail in one go, it would take ten to fifteen days; most visitors walk a short section at a time and make use of the Coastal Bus Service, which covers the entire path. The trail covers various landscapes, such as volcanic headlands, beaches, limestone cliffs, glacial valleys and red sandstone bays as well as charming towns and villages including Newport, Tenby, St, Davids and Solva.

There are plenty of activities to enjoy at the National Park from cycling, fishing and golfing to paragliding, rock climbing and sailing. In addition, there is much to do and see in Pembrokeshire as well, including boat trips, dining, visiting gardens, castles, museums and galleries or getting crafty at workshops. As there is so much going on, we will list a few of the highlights:

Golfing in Pembrokeshire - Pembrokeshire is the perfect location to golf with its 8 courses with its parkland and breath-taking panoramic views. Find your golf provider, here.

Horse Riding in Pembrokeshire - What better way to discover the coastal fields and woodland than by horse riding? Take in the beautiful scenery by saddling up on a suitable pony or horse (depending on your ability). All rides are accompanied by helpful staff.

Sailing in Pembrokeshire - Explore the stunning coastline and broad sandy beaches from a different perspective by sailing the coast of Pembrokeshire! You could charter one locally and learn how to sail, or visit the coast in your own yacht (if you are lucky enough to own one!) Find your suitable sailing provider, here.

Gardens in Pembrokeshire - There are various outstanding gardens in Pembrokeshire for you to enjoy, including The National Trust’s Colby Woodland garden near Amroth, the woodland garden at Picton Castle, Upton Castle and Gardens, Hilton Court Gardens and the hidden gems Bro Meigan and Penlan Uchaf gardens. You will find crocuses, and daffodils, carpets of bluebells, wildlife and mountain streams and ponds.

Castles in Pembrokeshire - For a prefect family day out, visit Castell Henllys Iron Age Fort in Newport. Castell Henllys is a reconstructed Iron Age hill fort set in the rugged north Pembrokeshire landscape. There are different children’s activities as well as guided tours for you and your family to enjoy while there.

Make the most out of your visit to Pembrokeshire by staying at the St Brides Spa Hotel in Saundersfoot. Located in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and surrounded by history, St. Brides Spa Hotel is a quite stunning contemporary destination spa hotel, located high up on the cliffs overlooking the village of Saundersfoot’s harbour. At the heart of the hotel lies the fabulous Marine Spa, where you can relax in the double treatment room and wet relaxation lounge overlooking the Bay. Also, The Cliff Restaurant, with its dramatic views and inventive menu, features the best of local Pembrokeshire produce, cooked to bring out the natural flavours. You would be seriously forgiven for not wanting to leave the hotel during your stay!

Coast path sign image courtesy of glynniqua Green Bridge of Wales image courtesy of David Evans Coast and horses image courtesy of Peter Collins Castell Henllys image courtesy of Henry Burrows

The post Britain’s Best Getaways: Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, Wales appeared first on Carpe Noctem.

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