Discover the Llyn Peninsula
Stretching from the peak of Snowdon to Bardsey Island (or Ynys
Enlli - the Island of the Tides), the Llyn Peninsula is a unique
and beautiful part of North Wales, renown for its natural charm
and mild climate.
So spectacular is its coastline that many thousands of acres
have been protected by the National Trust, and vast tracts of
land have been designated Areas of Special Scientific Interest.
It is a haven for wild flowers and its indigenous wildlife
attracts naturalists from far and wide - it even boasts its very
own breed of sheep (Llyn Sheep).
>From the 5th century until the Middle Ages, numerous saints and
pilgrims followed the holy route along the Llyn's north coast,
and it is steeped in early Celtic Christian history (according
to legend there are 20,000 saints buried on Bardsey). Quaint
country churches can be found dotted throughout the region - an
excellent example is St Mary's at Bryncroes, where St Mary's
Well was an important stop on the pilgrim's route.
Nant Gwrtheyrn, a once deserted quarrying village, now houses
the National Centre for Welsh Language & Culture. It is also
here that you can take a pleasant amble through an area teeming
with Mabinogion folklore and natural history.
The remote fishing village of Aberdaron can be found towards the
tip of the Peninsula. Traditionally, it was the last stopping
place for pilgrims on their way to Bardsey. Its delightful beach
has won awards and is always highly popular with families.
For the more adventurous, the areas magnificent coastline is
ideal for sailing (it is known as the 'Cowes of the North') and
other water sports. There are also plenty of facilities for
golf, tennis, walking, fishing and horseriding.
There is an attractive sailing harbour at Porthmadog, which was
a lively shipping port for the Welsh slate industry until the
early twentieth century. While just outside the town is Morfa
Bychan, where visitors are always delighted to discover the
never-ending sandy beach at Blackrock Sands - one of Britain's
finest!
For families who fancy a spot of fun, Bodvel Hall Adventure Park
at Boduan (near Pwllheli) lets the kids burn up some energy
while the adults are able to relax in its wonderful grounds. On
the other hand, Criccieth is the ideal coastal resort for
visitors who prefer to sit back and relax.
In the village of Llanystumdwy is an excellent museum which
celebrates the life of Lloyd George, the areas most famous son
and one time Prime Minister of Great Britain.
Inland Llyn is well worth exploring for its lush valleys,
crystal clear lakes and imposing mountains. The region is rich
in mineral deposits and tourists can enjoy a visit to the
Victorian Sygun Copper Mine at Beddgelert.
When you visit the Llyn Peninsuala, you would be forgiven for
thinking that you had stepped through a time warp and had
drifted back to a far less stressful period in history. Its
tranquil beauty, its thriving use of the ancient Welsh language
and its stupendous scenery make it a unique and fascinating part
of Wales.
The timeless Llyn has to be seen to be believed.