Pembrokeshire Coast Path – a captivating trail

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a hidden gem in the southwest of Wales, with breathtaking coastal views, picturesque villages, and a rich history.

On a recent visit, we walked part of the trail, along the stretch from Whitesands Bay to Little Haven. This scenic journey took us through St Justinian’s, with an added boat trip out to Ramsey Island. We stayed in the historic cathedral town, of St David’s, and also walked from St Non’s Chapel to Solva. Another trip took us to the tranquil beachside havens of Little Haven and Broad Haven.

St David’s Way

Whitesands Bay to the RNLI station at St Justinian’s is part of the longer St David’s Way from Fishguard to St David’s. Whitesands Bay is a popular beach known for its golden sands and fantastic surf. From here, we walked 3.5km south towards St Justinian’s, a charming hamlet with a historic lifeboat station. Dramatic views of Ramsey Island emerge around one of the headlands. Ramsey Island, a wildlife sanctuary, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

On another evening, a boat trip around the island took us close to towering cliffs, sea caves, gorges, grey seals, guillemots and other birds. The puffins were hiding – but if it’s puffins you’re looking for, head to the Saltee Islands off the Wexford coast!

Another Wexford connection is that St David’s Way is part of a joint Ireland-Wales initiative, the Wexford-Pembrokeshire Pilgrim Way. This Pilgrim Way follows in the footsteps of St Aidan’s 6th century journey from Ferns to meet his teacher and mentor, St David, in Wales.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path

St David’s is the smallest city in the United Kingdom. This ancient city is home to St David’s Cathedral, a majestic structure steeped in history and religious significance. St David’s is a mix of quaint streets, pubs, coffee shops, arts and crafts outlets. Walkers – and dogs – are welcome and visible everywhere!

A short distance from St David’s is St Non’s Chapel, a tranquil and spiritual site. Legend has it that St Non, the mother of St David, gave birth to him here. From this serene chapel to the fishing village is hop and a skip at 9.6km – but with magnificent panoramic views of the coastline. Reader, we availed of food and sustenance in the charming fishing village of Solva and got the bus back to St David’s.

As with St David’s, Solva’s narrow streets are lined with art galleries, cafes, and pubs. It’s also got a great Window on Wales shop, where we availed of the bargains on outdoor wear! When in Rome …

Little Haven and Broad Haven

Between Pembroke and Solva lie two idyllic villages: Little Haven and Broad Haven. Little Haven offers a sheltered sandy cove, with traditional pubs, narrow streets, and a picturesque beach. Broad Haven, just a short distance away, boasts a vast sandy beach, ideal for more long walks – all the while notching up steps on Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path that we saw from Whitesands Bay to Little Haven is unforgettable, with some of the most picturesque landscapes you’ll see. From the stunning views of Ramsey Island and the historical significance of St David’s and St Non’s Chapel to the charming villages of Solva, Little Haven, and Broad Haven, every step is filled with wonder and tranquility.