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Discover the Llyn Peninsula
by Paula Bardell
|
...visitors are always delighted to discover the never-ending sandy beach
at Blackrock Sands. |
Stretching
from the peak of Snowdon to Bardsey Island (or Ynys Enllithe
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
wideit 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 regionan excellent
example is St. Mary's at Bryncroes, where St. Mary's Well was
an important stop on the pilgrim's route.
Former Quarry
Village
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.
Remote Fishing
Village
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.
Sailing and
Water Sports
For the more
adventurous, the areas magnificent coastline is ideal for sailing
and other water sports. It is known as the 'Cowes of the North'.
There are also plenty of facilities for golf, tennis, walking,
fishing and horse riding.
There is an
attractive sailing harbor 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
Sandsone of Britain's finest!
Adventure
Park
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.
Museum and
Exploring
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 copper mines at
Beddgelert.
When you visit
the Llyn Peninsula, 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.
__________________________
Paula is
a freelance writer who has contributed pieces to numerous publications
on subjects such as literature, travel, culture, history and humanitarian
issues. She is a staff writer for Apsaras Review and the editor
of two popular online guides.
Related
Resources:
Exploring the Llyn Peninsula - Take a walk down the coast with video, stunning photos, and related travel resources.
Welcome
to Porthmadog - Where to stay and what to see in the villages
near Blackrock Beach.
also
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