Bardsey Island is a beautiful place, and a place that has held major religious importance over the centuries. Back in the medieval times, Bardsey Island was a popular destination for pilgrimages; it was believed that completing a pilgrimage would shorten the length of time you were stuck in purgatory before gaining access to Heaven. Bardsey Island was considered so holy to Catholics, in fact, that three pilgrimages to the island were believed to be equal to one to the Holy See of Rome.
Now there’s no need to complete a holy pilgrimage to enjoy its magnificence; you can enjoy a day trip there (leave around 3-4 hours to explore) via boat from either Porth Meudwy or Pwllheli. Boat fares are £45 for adults, and £25 for children; please note that dogs and pets are not allowed onto the island.
There are legions of birds living here, so you should take good advantage of the bird observatory to get a closer look at them, and the lighthouse is lovely.
This walk is about two miles long, allowing you to explore the island at your leisure. The island is kept as a nature reserve, meaning it is a truly beautiful and natural destination. You will climb the hill and take in the view of the mainland, then head down to the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, which marks the end of the pilgrimage.
A colony of seals lives just off the island; if you’re lucky you’ll be able to end your day watching them sleeping and sun-bathing.
Image Source: CC by-SA 2.0 by Zabdiel
Image Source: CC by-SA 2.0 by Stray Croc
Location
Bardsey Island is just off the North Wales coastline of the Llyn Peninsula. Enjoy a day trip by boat to explore the beautiful island.
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