Llŷn Peninsula

Llŷn is unmistakeable in so many ways. You can’t miss it on the map – it’s that crooked finger of land that points forcefully into the Irish Sea. It also has a distinct identity as a bastion of Celtic history and heritage and stronghold of Welsh culture and language. Then there’s the look of the place – it’s stunning. Llŷn is a protected ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’ on the strength of its exceptional coastline of coves, headlands, beaches and bays rich in wildlife. They’re all interlinked by the Llŷn Coastal Path (now part of the all-Wales Coast Path).

Aberdaron

Land’s end at its most idyllic. This fishing village was the last stop for pilgrims on the way to Ynys Enlli, a National Nature Reserve renowned internationally for its birdlife. Celebrated poet RS Thomas lived in a cottage within the beautiful grounds of Plas yn Rhiw, a small National Trust manor house. Be prepared to get blown away by the awesome coastal views from Mynydd Mawr headland. 

Abersoch

Popular – and very fashionable – seaside resort and sailing/watersports centre, with fine beaches and sheltered harbour. Busy programme of sailing events plus Wakestock, Europe’s largest wakeboard music festival (held in July). Busy bistro life too, plus a good choice of accommodation and attractions including pony trekking, boat trips and crafts centre. Abersoch is also a base for six circular walks ranging from under a mile to over nine miles.

Llanbedrog

Charming little seaside village with superb beach and possibly the most famous – certainly the most photogenic – line of beach huts in Wales. Home to Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, a leading arts centre and gallery. Well located for walking.

Llithfaen

Village set in a landscape full of interest. On Yr Eifl mountains there’s Tre’r Ceiri, an astonishingly well-preserved prehistoric village occupied until about 2,000 years ago. Nant Gwrtheyrn, the Welsh Language and Heritage Centre, is nearby.

Nefyn

Popular north coast seaside village with harbour, Maritime Museum and graceful crescent of sand leading to picturesque Porthdinllaen. Its headland golf course is not for the faint hearted – it’s like playing off the deck of an aircraft carrier. 

Porthdinllaen

How perfect can you get? Not much more than Porthdinllaen, a much-photographed coastal hamlet with quaint houses and waterfront inn set above a beautiful half-moon of sands. Village and beach are owned by the National Trust - access on foot only. 

Pwllheli

Llŷn’s ‘capital’ fills many roles - seaside resort with fine beach, busy market town with art galleries and very popular sailing and watersports centre with one of the best modern marinas in the UK. Hafan Pwllheli gives access to the inviting sailing waters of Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea. See the wildlife – seals, seabirds and dolphins – on coastal cruises (contact the Information Centre for details). Excellent leisure centre to keep the kids entertained, along with activity-packed Glasfryn Parc. Penarth Fawr medieval house nearby.