Pembrokeshire Coast Path - 7 Days & 6 Nights (North)

Pembrokeshire Coast (North) - 7 Days & 6 Nights

7 Days & 6 Nights 4.5 Read 51 reviews

Walk the North 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

The northern section of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path presents the walker with challenging but rewarding days along wilder and more remote terrain. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path follows the rugged coastline along the westerly peninsula of Wales. Secluded beaches, castle ruins and sleepy fishing villages are a few of the sights you will see on this walk which skirts the Pembrokeshire National Park. Breathe in the scent of wild herbs and flowers as you follow undulating cliff tops trails, listening to waves crashing in the sea caves below. Watch for puffins and seals who enjoy the coastal habitat and take a well deserved rest in one of the many secluded coves en route. This walk will leave you energised, revived and will inspire the senses.

What To Expect

Travel restrictions and resources, to and from any destination

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.

Tour Type:

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!

Activity:

Inn to Inn Walking | Walk from place-to-place changing accommodations each night. Generally staying in B&B’s, inns, and guesthouses.

This trip is suitable for:

Solo Travellers

Ideal if you have an interest in:

Long-Distance Trails
Coastal Walking

Activity Level & Terrain

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.

Navigation

The route is way marked extensively with finger posts and acorn symbols. Navigation skills may be required if you intend to venture off the trail. We provide a guide book and map to help you find your way.

Accommodations

You will stay in a mixture of carefully chosen hotels, country inns, B&B’s, small hotels and guest houses.

At times, due to limited accommodation in Amroth (when you begin walking from Amroth) we may have to book you into a property in Tenby. If this is the case, the transfer will need to be paid as an extra cost. In this case, you will also need to arrive in Tenby at the beginning of the tour (see travel information).

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.

Included

Overnights in B&B's, small hotels, guest houses and country inns
Daily breakfasts
Luggage transfers
A detailed information 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

Excluded

Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Entrance fees (where applicable)
Transport should you need to skip a stage (public and taxis)
Travel Insurance

Extras

Additional nights

When To Go

You can start your Pembrokeshire Coast Path Walk anytime between March and the beginning of October.

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.

Getting to the Start

By Bus—St David’s doesn't have a train station but you can reach the city by bus. From Swansea, it takes approx 3H. From Cardiff, approximately 4H.

By Air - Cardiff is the closest airport, Bristol is also an option as are the London airports.

Getting from the End

By Rail/Bus—From St Dogmaels the best way to travel is to catch the bus back to Fishguard (35mins) and then the train to Cardiff (1H30). We can also provide a telephone number for a taxi firm who will take you all the way back to Amroth for a reasonable cost.

Luggage Transfer

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.

General Information

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.

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

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.

Equipment

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.

Travel Insurance

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.

How fit do I need to be?

How far in advance do I need to book?

What personal equipment do I need?

When is the best time of year?

Am I able to take my dog?

What happens if I can’t walk a stage?

How do the baggage transfers work?

What’s the largest group size that can walk on this route?

Why do our group have to lodge in separate accommodations?

Is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path suitable for those with vertigo?

Is there alternative walking further away from the cliff edge?

Are there any sections effected by the tide?

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive St David's and overnight

St David's is the smallest city in Britain and no visit to this area would be complete without a visit to St David's Cathedral. There is no train station but you can reach the city by bus, from Swansea it takes around 3 hours.

Overnight St David's

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Ty-boia | Bed and breakfast

Centrally located, we are just a short walk to the historic St. David’s Cathedral, Bishops Palace, local restaurants, cafe’s and pubs, shops and galleries. The renowned Pembrokeshire Coast Path is minutes away, as are the many beautiful beaches and coves this special place has to offer – whether you are walking, cycling, busing or driving. Tŷ Boia offers private parking, bike facilities and the bus stop is about 50 yards up the street. The B&B has its own separate access, hallway and stairs, so there’s no need for tiptoeing around, equally as beneficial to us as to you with our two young children!

Ty Helyg | Bed and breakfast

Tŷ Helyg is a newly refurbished family run quality Bed and Breakfast set within the UK’s smallest city, St Davids, Pembrokeshire. They are proud to present a B&B with ample parking just minutes walk from city centre and the most visited heritage site in Wales, St Davids Cathedral, along with its shops, restaurants and public houses. They have 3 modern bedrooms, each with en-suite shower or private bathroom, flat-screen Freeview TV and full tea and coffee making facilities. WiFi access is also available throughout.

The Waterings | Bed and breakfast

The Waterings derives its name from a sheltered cove on Ramsey Island, the only deep water safe haven of the St David’s Peninsula, where in days gone by sailing ships anchored overnight and took on fresh water. Situated in a quiet relaxing location close to the National Park Visitor Centre, the Waterings is a short walk from the city centre and its 800 year old Cathedral.

Day 2: Walk Solva to Whitesands Bay 13 miles / 20 km

On today's walk you will experience a feeling of isolation as you wander along the windswept wild headlands. If you are lucky you may spot seals along the shoreline or perhaps a school of dolphins on a clear day.

Tonight you will be staying overnight in St David's. It is a short bus journey from Whitesand's Bay and details of this are in your accommodation list and information pack.

Overnight St David's

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Ty-boia | Bed and breakfast

Ty Helyg | Bed and breakfast

The Waterings | Bed and breakfast

Day 3: Walk to Trefin 11 miles / 18 km

After a short bus transfer to Whitesand's Bay, embark on your walk to Trefin. In some coves you will find the remains of old mining buildings and tram lines.

There is limited accommodation in Trefin. Therefore if the accommodation is full, you will be transferred back and forth to Goodwick or Fishguard and spend 2 nights here in either of these two places.

Overnight Trefin

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Manor Town House | Hotel

Manor Town is a 4-star guest house offering luxurious hotel accommodation. This hotel is 300 years old and is a Georgian listed townhouse. You can relax in your individually decorated room, many with original fireplaces and antique furniture. There is also a welcome tray offering complimentary spring water, fair trade tea and coffee and a wide range of toiletries, dressing gown and fluffy white towels in each room. Rooms are also all en-suite with free WIFI access.

Fern Villa | Bed and breakfast

Fern Villa is a spacious old Victorian house set in an acre of mature gardens. They provide lovely comfortable rooms which are centrally heated and carpeted. Equipped with Freeview TVs, hairdryers, extra blankets, clock radio alarms and a complimentary hospitality tray which includes tea, coffee and hot chocolate. Fresh milk and herbal teas are available on request. Towels and toiletries are provided. An iron and ironing board are available for guests use and free Wi-Fi. Their terraced gardens extend to 3/4 acres and the views from here are outstanding. Why not sit outside and relax on a summers evening and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Ferryboat Inn | Country Inn

They have 7 en-suite guestrooms which are comfortable, stylish, clean and fresh. They are furnished with solid oak furniture, hotel standard beds, Toshiba Flat screen LCD TVs, Sony clock radios and Mira Showers. Their hospitality tray includes tea, coffee, hot chocolate plus a bottle of Welsh spring water with fresh milk and herbal teas available on request. Toiletries are complimentary in each en-suite. Free wifi is available in all the rooms.

Day 4: Walk to Fishguard 20 miles / 32 km

Before reaching Pwll Deri be sure to keep an eye out for the stones of Carreg Sampson, marking a neolithic burial site. If the weather is favourable you may want to stop at Pwllcrochan, this sheltered cove is a great location to stop for a swim. A more challenging route follows as paths take a steep ascent upwards.

Abr-Felin offers a great opportunity for seal spotting.

Overnight Fishguard

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

Manor Town House | Hotel

Fern Villa | Bed and breakfast

Ferryboat Inn | Country Inn

Day 5: Walk Goodwick/Fishguard to Newport 13 miles / 21 km Day 6: Walk Newport to St Dogmaels/Cardigan 17 miles / 28 km

After stocking up on suppliers for the day you will start today's tough yet rewarding walk. Although it's not the furthest walking day today, it will likely be the most challenging section due to the higher cliff along the coast. On warm days you will be rewarded with stunning views but do keep in mind that with these views you will be exposed to the elements.

If you are staying in St Dogmaels the daily distance reduces by just over 2km.

Overnight St Dogmaels

Accommodations

A sample of our typical carefully chosen accommodation in this location. Where you stay will vary depending on availability, but will be a similar standard.

The Cliff Hotel and Spa | Hotel

With expansive, beautiful hotel grounds, the Cliff Hotel and Spa is located on the coast of Cardigan Bay overlooking Poppit Sands and Cardigan Island. With excellent spa facilities you can unwind and enjoy the facilities and treatments provided at the spa.

Ty-Parc Guest House | Guest House

Ty-Parc is a relaxed family run Guest House that offers full bed and Breakfast facilities in Cardigan, this impressive 5-bedroom detached Edwardian house, built circa 1904, offers unrivalled fully-furnished guest house accommodation. Each room has tea/coffee making facilities, flat screen TV with Freeview©, DVD and music CD playback. All en-suites have heating and extractor fans as well as sockets for electric shavers and hair dryers, including in-shower radios and complimentary soaps and shampoos. An alarm clock and complimentary wifi when available.

Penbontbren | Bed and breakfast

Penbontbren Luxury Bed and Breakfast in West Wales is nestled in 32 acres of grounds, surrounded by Welsh countryside with views towards the Preseli mountains and only 2 miles from wonderful national trust beaches. Indulge in the Luxury Bed & Breakfast experience at Penbontbren. With 5 luxury suites to a 5 star standard, each with a spacious sitting room, their own garden, King size bed and sumptuous décor and furnishings.

Day 7: Onward Travel from St Dogmaels or Cardigan

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