Pembrokeshire Coast (South) - 8 Days & 7 Nights
- Walk the South section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path
- Hidden bays and sleepy fishing villages
- The city of St David's, surprisingly the smallest in Britain
- Spot seals and puffins in their natural habitat
- Follow trails atop cliff’s, with the crashing Atlantic waves below
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Saundersfoot and overnightAlthough Amroth is the starting point of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, your first night will be spent in Saundersfoot as there is a lack of accommodation in Amroth. Saundersfoot is a nice quiet seaside village.
You can catch the train from Swansea (1 hour 30 mins) or Cardiff (3 hours) to Saundersfoot.
Harbourlight Guest House is a 3-star guesthouse in an ideal location in Pembrokeshire. It is a family run accommodation with licensed bar and on-site parking. Situated in the heart of the coastal village of Saundersfoot. It is located just 2-minute walk from beautiful seaside beaches, harbour, restaurants and shops.
This is a family run guest house situated in the heart of Pembrokeshire. They have over 15 years’ experience in running the 'Claremont' and look forward to looking after their guests many of which come back time and time again.
This is the ideal place to escape the crowds for a touch of peace and quiet, allowing you to relax, unwind and enjoy. Comfort and quality are the key notes of the decor, a theme which extends to each of the 20 en-suite rooms, some of which enjoy views across the bay.
A short transfer (15 mins) brings you to Amroth, a small village located in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and the start of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path. The first section of the walk from Amroth follows undulating paths through a mix of woodland cliff-top walking, sandy coves onto the colourful village of Tenby.
Ascent: +415m / Descent: -415m
A short walk from North Beach, this hotel is ideally located in the centre of Tenby.
Osnok is a Family-run guesthouse rooms where a warm welcome from Connie awaits you.
All the rooms are tastefully decorated and have Flat Screen Televisions with Freeview, radio alarm, hairdryer and hospitality tray which is replenished daily. Iron & Ironing Board available on request. Free security-encrypted WI-FI Access.
Today's walk is one of the most popular sections of the path. You will enjoy beaches, sheltered bays and great picnic spots. There are a few steep sections, as to be expected and paths are cleverly chosen to skirt around MoD areas.
As you approach Manorbier you will spot Manorbier Castle. It is located just off the path and you may want to explore before approaching the town. (Opening times can be found online.)
Ascent: +135m / Descent: -105m
As there is currently only one accommodation that we use in Manorbier, you may be overnighting in nearby Freshwater East with an included return taxi transfer or in some cases, depending on availability you may also be staying in Tenby where you can catch a local bus from Manobier back to Tenby in the afternoon.
Nestled on mature grounds Castlemead is in a wooded valley overlooking Manorbier Bay, each room features an en-suite bathroom, a flat-screen TV, and tea/coffee making facilities. Some rooms also boast far-reaching views of the sea. The family-run restaurant offers 4-star food made with locally sourced produce and a daily changing menu. You can relax in the elegant guest lounge and a cosy sun room with views of the countryside and they also have sheltered garden where you can enjoy alfresco dining in the summer.
Hosted by Theresa and James, this boutique B&B boasts 4 cozy bedrooms, a great room with wood-burning fireplace, expansive outdoor patio, spectacular views, and western country design. Fuel up on a hearty, healthy two-course breakfast before you head out for the day.
Portclew House is a grand Georgian Country Guesthouse set in three acres of ground. They have seven bedrooms consisting of family, double, twin and single rooms. All have en suite facilities, colour TV, hairdryers and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities. On more pleasant days you may wish to eat al fresco on the balcony which adjoins the dining room. With two balconies on either side of the house you can sit and relax and are sure to catch the sun at any time of the day.
The beautiful coastline scenery will continue today as you make your way around the green cliffs. As you pass Stackpole Quay the cliffs progress to limestone, dropping dramatically to the sea, offering a different perspective to today's walk. Why not visit the National Trust Boathouse Tearoom offering a selection of sandwiches and cakes?
Ascent: +335m / Descent: -310m
1. If you stayed in Freshwater East (due to a lack of availability in Manorbier) an included return transfer will take you back to Manorbier to continue your walk in the morning. Alternatively, if you spent the night in Tenby, you can catch the local bus back to Manorbier.
2. Due to there only being one accommodation in Bosherston, you may be overnighting in the nearby village of Stackpole. This will add 1.3 miles (2km) to your walking day.
3. Full Pembrokeshire Coast Path Itinerary Only (not possible for the Pembrokeshire South) - on the rare occasions when both accommodations are full in Bosherston and Stackpole and you have no flexibility on changing dates - we can offer return transfers to Manorbier, Angle or Pembroke (extra supplement required and cost will vary depending on location).
A warm welcome awaits you from Alex, Mallika and the rest of the team at this quiet country retreat where you can enjoy a restful stay or a good meal. All rooms are welcoming and comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and come with excellent facilities including Freeview TV, independently controlled central heating, tea and coffee making facilities & complimentary biscuits.
Gary and Becky would like to welcome you to the award winning Stackpole Inn; with a restaurant and rooms. The four fabulous, newly renovated high quality king size en-suite rooms are on two levels. Breakfast is served in the restaurant with various options that can include full Welsh breakfast or smoked salmon, scrambled eggs using fresh farm eggs, fresh fruit and cereal and homemade marmalade. The chefs will cater for all special diets.
The section between Bosherton to Merrion sees you pass historic St Govan's Chapel and the opportunity to see the dramatic bays and inlets of the wonderful rock formations of Stack Rocks and the stunning Bullslaughter Bay.
Ascent: +75m / Descent: -75m
If you are staying in Stackpole instead of Bosherston you will need to add 2.5 miles (4km) to the walk today.
IMPORTANT: The UK's Ministry of Defence carries out regular military training drills on a section of this walk (known as the Castlemartin Firing Ranges). If your dates clash with a firing range drill, you will not be able to access the Wales Green Bridge/Stacks Rock sections of this loop walk. If your dates clash with a firing drill, we offer an alternative loop walk around the Stackpole nature reserve instead.
Background information: These drills were rare before 2022 but since 2023 (likely due to current world affairs) they have started taking place more regularly throughout the summer months - in some cases, it is every weekday of the month (Monday to Friday) - you can see their schedule here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/castlemartin-firing-notice--2 - it should be noted that the timetables generally do not get announced till around 2-3 weeks before so we cannot guarantee this section will be open for the dates of your trip. To give yourself the best chance of this section being accessible we recommend trying to time your trip, that this particular walk lands on a Saturday or Sunday. That said it can never be guaranteed.
A warm welcome awaits you from Alex, Mallika and the rest of the team at this quiet country retreat where you can enjoy a restful stay or a good meal. All rooms are welcoming and comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and come with excellent facilities including Freeview TV, independently controlled central heating, tea and coffee making facilities & complimentary biscuits.
Gary and Becky would like to welcome you to the award winning Stackpole Inn; with a restaurant and rooms. The four fabulous, newly renovated high quality king size en-suite rooms are on two levels. Breakfast is served in the restaurant with various options that can include full Welsh breakfast or smoked salmon, scrambled eggs using fresh farm eggs, fresh fruit and cereal and homemade marmalade. The chefs will cater for all special diets.
A transfer will take you back to Merrion for today's walk where you will pass Freshwater West, known locally as "fresh-west." This is one of the coast's best-known surfing areas. Depending on the time of year you may have the chance to taste some of the fantastic seafood from the quirky local food van (made from an old fishing boat). The scenery from here is spectacular, passing wonderful sea cliffs with some steep ups and downs.
Ascent: +115m / Descent: -150m
As there is currently only one accommodation that we use in Angle, you may be overnighting in nearby Pembroke with an included return taxi transfer.
Built in 1904, this Grade II listed country mansion has renovated and upgraded to provide luxury comfort, technology and style with original art and both modern and traditional touches to all its rooms. A mansion in the purest sense, the cast iron staircase has been stripped back to its original metal, new slate flagstones have been laid on the floor, luxury ensuite bathrooms fitted, solar boosted heating installed, and wi-fi throughout, making it a luxurious spacious and comfortable place to stay.
Positioned overlooking the sea at glorious East Angle Bay, you will find The Old Point House, a historic and charming 16th Century Coastal Inn. The Old Point House has three lovely generous bedrooms Heron, Turnstone and Plover.
The Woodbine B&B offers cosy accommodation in the village of Pembroke which is steeped in history. Their aim is to provide you with a warm, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. All rooms have central heating, colour TV/DVD, Radio, Alarm clock, Hair dryer and Tea/Coffee making facilities. They can also cater for special dietary requirements with prior notice.
Wonderful award-winning beaches and sheltered bays make for great picnic spots in this section. Pembroke is located close to the river, steeped in history there are several interesting structures including a 900-year-old Norman castle and other historical ruins.
Ascent: +170m / Descent: -145m
If you spent the night in Pembroke (due to lack of availability in Angle), a return transfer will take you back to Angle to continue your walk in the morning.
The Woodbine B&B offers cosy accommodation in the village of Pembroke which is steeped in history. Their aim is to provide you with a warm, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. All rooms have central heating, colour TV/DVD, Radio, Alarm clock, Hair dryer and Tea/Coffee making facilities. They can also cater for special dietary requirements with prior notice.
Where old meets new is probably the best way to describe the Coach House Hotel. A truly medieval feeling in a fully modern hotel. In fact, the Coach House Hotel has all the mod cons, including wireless internet, satellite TV and many other extras available for our guests.
This is a 4-star B&B within walking distance of the town center and castle.
All rooms have tea and coffee making facilities, freeview tv and hair driers.
You can catch a train from Pembroke to Swansea (2 hours) or Cardiff (3 hours).
This trip has a carbon score of 12kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 12kg is equivalent to 5 bunches of flowers (grown in the Netherlands). Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?If you enjoy coastal walking with endless sandy beaches, cliff top views and plenty of wildlife then this could be the walk for you. Take the challenge and walk the full length in a fortnight or split the walking into the beaches of the South, the varied central section or the rugged and remote North.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&Bs, inns, and guesthouses.
Solo Travellers, Families with Teens
The minimum age for this tour is: 12 Years
This tour is graded moderate to strenuous depending on which itinerary you choose. For those wishing to complete the entire walk, it is advisable that you have some previous long-distance walking experience.
The route is a mixture of paths, beach walking and clifftop paths. Some of the sections can be rocky and steep as you traverse the cliffs. You will often encounter steps as you ascend and descend between the coves.
You will stay in a mixture of carefully chosen hotels, country inns, B&B’s, small hotels and guest houses.
Since not all the accommodations are directly on the path, you may be walking extra distances to reach your accommodation, so you will need to take this into consideration when calculating your daily distances as our GPS tracks and distances noted in your document and on our website do not normally include these additional mileages.
If, in order to confirm your booking, we need to use an accommodation for you that is too far from the trail, or in an alternate location, or it is not possible to reach by public transportation, we will include the transfers for you as part of the cost of the tour and these are outlined in your travel documents. (Whitesands Bay is the exception - see below)
There is no accommodation in Whitesands Bay, therefore if your itinerary involves walking to Whitesands Bay you will spend 2 nights in St David's. You can use a short public bus ride in order to get to and from this location. This bus only runs in season (starts in early May). If you choose to walk in April we can organise taxi transfers for you but it will be at your own cost.
Additional Nights
Many of our clients choose to add extra nights along the walk to sample more of the wonderful walking and attractions available on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. St David’s, Pembroke and Tenby are great for recovery days or simply sightseeing opportunities. Solva is a magical village tucked into the hillside and there are plenty of circular walks over the cliffs that can demand an extra day. The naturalists amongst you will not want to miss the chance to take a boat trip out from St David’s to see the RSPB reserve and seals at Ramsay Island.Accommodation Location
We will always try and accommodate you at the locations detailed in the tour itinerary. Occasionally, because of limited availability, we may have to accommodate you into alternative accommodations which are not listed in the description. If those listed are unavailable the alternative accommodation will be of the same or better standard than those described.Single Rooms
If you require single rooms within your party we will always try and accommodate you, subject to availability. A single supplement is payable.Solo Walkers
This walking holiday is available to solo walkers but as we incur additional baggage transfer costs there is a solo walker supplement payable.Meals
A hearty breakfast is included each morning. Lunch and dinner are not included. Most of your accommodation will be more than happy to provide a packed lunch on request. Dinner is available either at your accommodation or at nearby pubs or restaurants.The route is way marked extensively with finger posts and acorn symbols. Navigation is straightforward as you can use the Macs Adventure app which has maps, tracks, and daily route info. Simply download the GPS tracks for offline use and follow the route on your phone.
- Overnights in B&B's, small hotels, guest houses and country inns
- Daily breakfasts
- Luggage transfers
- A detailed info pack and guidebook
- Access to maps, GPX tracks with the Macs Adventure smartphone navigation app
- Transfers as described in your departure documents (as necessary)
- Emergency telephone support from our office in the event of a problem
- Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
- Entrance fees (where applicable)
- Transport should you need to skip a stage (public or taxis)
- Travel Insurance
- Additional nights
Castlemarting Firing Ranges
IMPORTANT: The UK's Ministry of Defence uses a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast to carry out military drills. These drills take place throughout the summer months and can lead to the Wales Green Bridge/Bosherton to St Govan's sections being closed on the Bosherton to Angle walk (complete itineraries) or Bosherton Loop Walk (South Itinerary). A shorter detour needs to be taken that goes away from the coast if you happen to be walking on a day that it's closed off due to the drills.
Background information: These drills were rare before 2022 but since 2023 (likely due to current world affairs) they have started taking place more regularly throughout the summer months - in some cases, it is every weekday of the month (Monday to Friday) - you can see their schedule here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/castlemartin-firing-notice--2 - it should be noted that the timetables generally do not get announced till around 2-3 weeks before so we cannot guarantee this section will be open for the dates of your trip. To give yourself the best chance of this section being accessible we recommend trying to time your trip, that this particular walk lands on a Saturday or Sunday. That said it can never be guaranteed.
Time of Year
You can enjoy this walk in spring, summer or autumn/fall. In the springtime, you will encounter spring flowers, for example, woods that may be full of bluebells. The summer should be slightly warmer, but perhaps a little busier. The autumn/fall will be quieter and a lovely time to walk this coast path.
By Train/Bus - You can catch the train from Swansea (1H30) or Cardiff (3H) to Saundersfoot. More information on trains is available on the Trainline website. For general public transportation information please visit the Traveline.
By Car—Please note that there are limited spaces available in Saundersfoot and Tenby and we always advise that you use public transport wherever possible.
By Air - Swansea is the closest airport, Bristol is also an option as are the London airports.
You can catch a train from Pembroke to Swansea 2H) or to Cardiff (3H).
At Macs Adventure, we work in partnership with many luggage transfer providers who set a limit on how many bags/suitcases they will transfer per person, and also the weight of the bag/suitcase. Your booking includes transfer of 1 bag per person up to 18 kg. It is very important that you read the luggage information specific to your tour before departure. If you do not adhere to these limits, there is a great possibility that you will be charged locally both for extra bags or if they are too heavy. This limitation can be a challenge, especially as airlines generally have limits that are higher. However, our luggage providers have reasons for these limits (usually due to the Health and Safety of their employees), which we must respect.
If you are travelling from far afield and do have more than one bag it is possible to arrange for the extra luggage to be stored whilst you are on the tour. (There may be a small charge for this). These additional bags would be picked up at your accommodation at the start point and dropped off wherever you finish depending on the itinerary you choose to do. Please contact us if you are interested in this option.
Daily Distances
Since not all the accommodations are directly on the path, you may be walking extra distances to reach your accommodation, so you will need to take this into consideration when calculating your daily distances as our GPS tracks and distances noted in your document and on our website do not normally include these additional mileages. Also, please be aware that we have calculated the daily distances on our Macs Adventure Smartphone App so they may not necessarily be the same as listed in the guidebook.
Castlemartin firing ranges
IMPORTANT: The UK's Ministry of Defence uses a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast to carry out military drills. These drills take place throughout the summer months and can lead to the Wales Green Bridge/Bosherton to St Govan's sections being closed on the Bosherton to Angle walk (complete itineraries) or Bosherton Loop Walk (South Itinerary). A shorter detour needs to be taken that goes away from the coast if you happen to be walking on a day that it's closed off due to the drills.
Background information: These drills were rare before 2022 but since 2023 (likely due to current world affairs) they have started taking place more regularly throughout the summer months - in some cases, it is every weekday of the month (Monday to Friday) - you can see their schedule here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/castlemartin-firing-notice--2 - it should be noted that the timetables generally do not get announced till around 2-3 weeks before so we cannot guarantee this section will be open for the dates of your trip. To give yourself the best chance of this section being accessible we recommend trying to time your trip, that this particular walk lands on a Saturday or Sunday. That said it can never be guaranteed.
Tidal Information
Please be aware that certain sections will be affected by tides which may have an impact on the daily walking distance and your ability to undertake certain sections at specific times of the day. These sections included:
- Between Iron Bridge, Newport, and Newport Sands
- West of Monkton, Pembroke
- Bullwell Bay at Popton, near Angle
- Point Lane, Angle.
Your included guidebook and the following link to the Pembrokeshire coast path trail website give the necessary information about passing these sections. For more information on tide times in the UK you can also visit: https://www.tidetimes.org.uk/
Onward Travel Day - No Bus Service on a Sunday
Please be aware that there are no buses running from St Dogmaels or Cardigan to adjoining towns on a Sunday, we, therefore, recommend that you avoid having your onward travel day land on a Sunday if possible. Alternatively, we provide a telephone number for a taxi firm who will take you all the way back to Amroth for a reasonable cost.
Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes and a day pack.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
We offer a range of itineraries with differing daily distances so you can find an itinerary that suits your preferred level of activity. If you currently don’t enjoy an active lifestyle, we suggest regular walking in hilly terrain supplemented by cardiovascular exercise before your walk. A good gym or personal trainer will be able to draw up a personalised training programme.
We suggest you book as soon as you know your plans as Pembrokeshire is extremely popular especially over April/May and July/August.
You will need good walking shoes/boots (ideally waterproof), comfortable walking clothes, waterproof jacket and trousers, a day pack and hats/gloves etc. A full equipment list is included in your information pack.
This walking holiday is best enjoyed between March and mid-October. Springtime weather can be changeable but usually is the driest time of year, from March to June.
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate walkers with dogs as many of the accommodation providers we use do not accept pets.
You can use public transport or local taxis to continue to your next overnight stop. Our office can assist with helpful advice should you need to arrange transport for yourself or anyone in your party.
There are sections on the full, north and south itineraries (the "Best Of" and central sections do not have any) which may have an impact on the daily walking distance and your ability to undertake certain sections at specific times of the day. These sections included:
North Section
- Between Iron Bridge, Newport, and Newport Sands
- West of Monkton, Pembroke
Central Section
- None
South Section
- Bullwell Bay at Popton, near Angle
- Point Lane, Angle.
Your included guidebook and the following link to the Pembrokeshire coast path trail website give the necessary information about passing them. For more information on tide times in the UK you can also visit: https://www.tidetimes.org.uk/
IMPORTANT: The UK's Ministry of Defence uses a section of the Pembrokeshire Coast to carry out military drills. These drills take place throughout the summer months and can lead to the Wales Green Bridge/Bosherton to St Govan's sections being closed on the Bosherton to Angle walk (complete itineraries) or Bosherton Loop Walk (South Itinerary). A shorter detour needs to be taken that goes away from the coast if you happen to be walking on a day that it's closed off due to the drills.
Background information: These drills were rare before 2022 but since 2023 (likely due to current world affairs) they have started taking place more regularly throughout the summer months - in some cases, it is every weekday of the month (Monday to Friday) - you can see their schedule here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/castlemartin-firing-notice--2 - it should be noted that the timetables generally do not get announced till around 2-3 weeks before so we cannot guarantee this section will be open for the dates of your trip. To give yourself the best chance of this section being accessible we recommend trying to time your trip, that this particular walk lands on a Saturday or Sunday. That said it can never be guaranteed.
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