“Because there’s nothing more beautiful than the way the ocean refuses to stop kissing the shoreline, no matter how many times it’s sent away.” – Sarah Kay
Recentaly I had been recommend a trip to Trefor Beach, always eager to explore somewhere near in Wales I couldn’t resist a little day to the Llyn Peninsula. Trefor Beach is situated on the north coast of the picturesque Llyn Peninsula. Set in front of the little fishing village of Trefor the beach here has a spectacular backdrop of the mountains of Snowdonia.
The beach and harbour here are an extremely important part of the history of the area as this was one of the major granite producing regions of Wales with a large local quarry. In days gone by this would have been transported to Europe from Trefor which is how the harbour developed.
The beach here is a mixture of small pebbles and sand and is well protected by the encircling headlands, although strong winds still blow from the North West side. Trefor Beach backs onto land that dates from the last glaciations and is made up of boulder clay which periodically crumbles into the sea. There is also a pier here which stretches for nearly 200 meters into the sea and is often used by local fisherman.
Offshore from Trefor Beach on the outside of the harbour wall sits a sharp reef which means that the surfing conditions here can be excellent when there is a swell running. If you want to walk down to the beach then there is a rambling trail that goes from the village to Trefor Beach and skirts past the local playground.
The harbour is a great sheltered piece of water thanks to the pier with lots of families paddle boarding and swimming! With the added bonus of being able to see the sea bed! There is no privacy with this beach so if you visit expect lots of families enjoying the shoreline.
Naturally I couldn’t be so close to Criccieth without stopping for an ice cream, OK so it was about 20 minutes out of my way but I never need a reason to visit one of my favourite North Wales towns. Criccieth is a beautiful seaside resort town on Cardigan Bay, on the Southern side of the Llyn Peninsula. Known as the ‘Pearl of Wales on the Shores of Snowdonia’
Totally worth it!!
The beach is separated into two different areas, both with incredible views of the surrounding Snowdonia Mountains. Overlooking the town on its headland stands the remains of the 13th century Criccieth Castle. The origin of the name ‘Criccieth’ has been disputed over the years, but many believe it is a reference to welsh words ‘crug caeth’. These words translate to ‘hill captives’ – the hill on which the castle was built upon was once used as a jail. Criccieth unlike other “tourist” based towns in North Wales does not have all the loud, colourful amusements instead it is a much more understated place to visit. Also the tourists haven’t overfeed the seagulls so its still safe to sit outside with your fish and chips, safe in the knowledge that you aren’t going to be mugged by a bird for them! I highly recommend visiting this lovely little seaside town.
