If you want to explore one of the most remote corners of the principality from an authentic Welsh village, look no further than Aberdaron. Situated on the Llŷn Peninsula’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Aberdaron offers the perfect escape from today’s hustle and bustle.
You’ll be rewarded with a chance to experience the wilder, more spiritual side, of Wales.
Breathtaking coastal scenery
Aberdaron is perched on the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula – aptly known as the “Land’s End of Wales”, where you might well feel you’re standing on the very edge of the world.
Nestled among the wildly dramatic and rugged cliffs, though, are the inviting tranquil beaches of:
- Aberdaron Beach – Porth y Swnt, to give the Welsh name for this beautiful wide and sandy beach right alongside the village itself;
- Porth Oer – meaning Whistling Sands, for the very good reason that the quartz particles of the sand give a whistling or squeaking sound when scrunched underfoot; and
- Porth Meudwy is a tiny cove so secluded you’d best approach it by footpath before joining one of the several boats over to Bardsey Island.
As you explore one cove and its beaches after another, you can take bracing cliff-top walks with stunning views out to sea across the whole of Cardigan Bay or back towards the mountains of Snowdonia.
Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli)
A visit to Aberdaron would not be complete without hopping over to Bardsey Island or Ynys Enlli.
“Island of the Bards” in English or “Island in the Currents” in its native Welsh, this is a truly mystical place with the deep spiritual connections of a holy island said to be the final resting place of 20,000 saints – according to one legend, those burials include that of King Arthur’s Merlin.
The absolute peace and calm of the island is undisturbed by cars or the power of electricity, yet it is not only a nature reserve but also a working farm and fishing port. All 12 of the island’s buildings are Grade II listed.
The coastal paths are rich in marine and plant life and while you’re on the lookout for seals, and dolphins offshore, rare birds might be flying overhead. All this means that visitor numbers must be carefully controlled – so remember to book well in advance.
Mynydd Mawr
We said some of the views could be truly stunning. If you were left in any doubt, just take a hike up Mynydd Mawr.
It means “Big Mountain” in English. And that’s just as well since you’ll get some absolutely amazing views of the Welsh Giant of them all, Mount Snowdon, or Yr Wyddfa.
Park the car and join the National Trust walking trail at Uwchmynydd. Since you’ll be at the very western edge of the Llŷn Peninsula, you will have panoramic views across the water to Bardsey Island – and even as far as Ireland itself on a clear day. This makes for a great spot for stargazing or simply admiring the sunset.
Peaceful Plas yn Rhiw
When the rugged wilderness of the Llŷn Peninsula threatens to become too much, take in the quieter, altogether more peaceful setting of Plas yn Rhiw.
Laid out around a 17th-century manor house, the 11 acres of woodland and gardens paint a picture of forgotten times. As you soak up that atmosphere, you’ll also be rewarded with fine views across the whole of the Llŷn Peninsula and Hell’s Mouth Bay in particular.
The ornamental gardens were revived by the Keating sisters (Honora, Lorna, and Eileen – originally from Nottingham) in 1938.
Lending a sense of majesty to the whole tranquil scene is the backdrop of Mynydd Rhiw Mountain.
Amazing Aberdaron
Aberdaron offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Wales’ most captivating and remote coastal regions.
From the sweeping sands of Whistling Sands to the mystical solitude of Bardsey Island, this stretch of coastline invites visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature, heritage, and the spiritual essence of the land.
Whether you’re walking ancient cliff-top paths, discovering secret coves, or stargazing from Mynydd Mawr, every turn reveals a fresh sense of wonder. With its blend of dramatic scenery, rich history and peaceful retreats like Plas yn Rhiw,
Aberdaron is a truly remarkable destination for those seeking authenticity and quiet adventure.