The Pembrokeshire Coast Path winds its way for 186 miles along the spectacular shoreline of Wales' westernmost peninsula. Designated as Britain's only coastal national park, this protected landscape offers some of the most dramatic and diverse walking in Europe—from towering sea cliffs and hidden coves to expansive beaches and charming harbor villages.

At Holodnaya Yaichnitsa Tours, we've spent years exploring these trails to create perfectly balanced walking itineraries that showcase the region's natural splendor, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here, we share some of our favorite sections and insider tips for experiencing this remarkable coastline on foot.

The Rugged North: Dramatic Seascapes

The northern stretch of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, from St. Dogmaels to Fishguard, offers the most challenging but rewarding walking, with steep ascents and descents revealing spectacular views.

Ceibwr Bay to Newport

This demanding 11-mile section features some of the path's most dramatic geological formations, including the famous "Witches' Cauldron" (Pwll-y-Wrach)—a collapsed sea cave that creates a natural blowhole during high tides. In spring, the clifftops burst with wildflowers, while autumn brings seal pups to the secluded coves below. The picturesque town of Newport, with its wide estuary beach and excellent dining options, makes an ideal overnight stop.

Insider Tip:

The Golden Lion pub in Newport offers rooms with stunning estuary views and serves exceptional locally-sourced food, including fresh-caught seafood.

The Central Section: Islands and History

The path's middle section encompasses the St. David's Peninsula, home to Britain's smallest city and several important historical sites.

Whitesands Bay to Solva

This 12-mile walk combines breathtaking coastal scenery with rich Celtic and medieval history. From the Blue Flag beach at Whitesands, the path climbs to offer views across to Ramsey Island (a renowned bird sanctuary) before passing the ruins of St. Non's Chapel, birthplace of Wales' patron saint. The route continues around the spectacular natural harbor at Porthclais before reaching the colorful fishing village of Solva, nestled in a deep, narrow inlet.

Insider Tip:

Allow time to explore St. David's Cathedral and the adjacent ruins of the Bishop's Palace. For a special experience, attend Evensong at the cathedral to hear its magnificent acoustics brought to life.

The Gentler South: Beaches and Limestone Cliffs

The southern section offers more moderate walking with longer beaches and limestone geology creating a different but equally captivating landscape.

Broad Haven to Marloes

This varied 10-mile walk takes you from the family-friendly beach at Broad Haven, along dramatic red sandstone cliffs to Little Haven (a perfect spot for a pub lunch), then across the vast expanse of Marloes Sands—frequently voted one of Britain's best beaches. From the Marloes peninsula, you can spot seabirds and occasionally dolphins, with views across to Skomer Island, famous for its puffin colonies from April to July.

Stackpole Estate and Barafundle Bay

Perhaps the most photographed section of the coast path, this National Trust estate encompasses woodland, lakes, and limestone cliffs leading to Barafundle Bay—often described as the "Jewel in the Crown" of Pembrokeshire beaches. Accessible only on foot, its golden sands and crystal-clear waters feel like a Mediterranean discovery rather than a Welsh hideaway. Continue to Stackpole Quay, a tiny harbor where the estate's limestone was once shipped out.

Insider Tip:

The Stackpole Inn provides luxurious accommodation and award-winning cuisine featuring local produce. Book well in advance during summer months.

Practical Considerations

When to Walk

The Pembrokeshire coastal climate is milder than much of Britain, making walking possible year-round. However, we recommend:

  • May and June: For wildflowers, nesting seabirds, and long daylight hours with fewer crowds
  • September and October: For warm sea temperatures, migrating birds, and spectacular autumn light

Difficulty and Preparation

While not mountainous, the coast path involves considerable accumulated ascent and descent, with some sections requiring good fitness and sturdy footwear. The path is well-marked with acorn symbols throughout, but carrying detailed maps is essential. Mobile reception can be patchy, so don't rely solely on digital navigation.

Transportation

The innovative Pembrokeshire Coastal Bus service operates several routes (with names like "Puffin Shuttle" and "Poppit Rocket") specifically designed to help walkers access different sections of the path. These allow for one-way walks without needing to retrace your steps.

Wildlife Encounters

The Pembrokeshire Coast offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities:

  • Atlantic Grey Seals: Pupping season (September-November) brings hundreds of seal pups to secluded beaches
  • Dolphins and Porpoises: Frequently spotted from headlands, particularly around Strumble Head and Cardigan Bay
  • Seabirds: Guillemots, razorbills, gannets, and the iconic puffins nest on offshore islands
  • Choughs: These rare members of the crow family with distinctive red bills and legs are emblematic of the Welsh coast

Cultural Connections

Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast isn't just about natural beauty—it's also an immersion in Welsh culture and heritage. The path passes ancient monuments including Iron Age promontory forts, Celtic crosses, and medieval churches. Many coastal communities still maintain fishing traditions centuries old, while the Welsh language remains widely spoken, particularly in northern Pembrokeshire.

Our Bespoke Walking Tours

At Holodnaya Yaichnitsa Tours, we offer carefully curated walking experiences along the Pembrokeshire Coast, from gentle day walks to challenging multi-day adventures. Our local guides provide cultural context and historical insights, while our partnerships with characterful accommodations and outstanding restaurants ensure comfortable rest and exceptional dining after your day's exertion.

Whether you're drawn to dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, or rich history, Wales' coastal paths offer walking experiences to treasure. We invite you to explore this extraordinary landscape with us, one step at a time.

Written by Rhiannon Jones, Walking Tour Specialist at Holodnaya Yaichnitsa Tours