Posted on 31/01/2017 by David
This is a brand new walking series dedicated to you and your pooch, as we pick our favourite dog-friendly North Wales walks. This week we're off to the beach!
North Wales boasts some of the most breathtakingly beautiful coastline in the UK. Whether you prefer to look out over golden sands that stretch for miles, discover secluded bays and hidden rocky coves teeming with wildlife, or like to enjoy dramatic mountain views - one of these coastal walks is bound to make a wonderful day out for you and your pooch.
Remember, that though many of the beaches and coastal paths in the area are dog-friendly, it is worth checking for any dog restrictions before visiting – they tend to vary depending on the season. Also, please bear in mind the Countryside Code while you and your dogs are out enjoying the scenery.
If you love finding new places for walkies with you fur babies - why not take a look at other blogs in the series? We've visited the woods, the riversides and the mountains in winter to find the best dog walks in North Wales for you.
1. Newborough Warren – Anglesey
Newborough Warren is an ideal walking spot at any time of year. Boasting a remote sandy beach, incredible views of the Menai Straight, Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula, plus salt marshes, a glorious pine forest, picturesque Llanddwyn Island and even a lighthouse. Phew! It’s certainly got a whole lot going for it!
For a gentle 30 min walk try this simple route:
(From the South of the Island) Follow the main road through the village of Newborough until you reach the roundabout. Turn right and continue on the road until sculpture below and a small car park for the Nature Reserve and Bird Hide.
A sandy path through the local countryside, will bring you quickly to a broad forest track. Here, you can join the Anglesey Coastal Path, which will join the track from your right hand side. The path soon takes you deeper into the forest; listen out for Skylarks nesting in the trees above.
*Dogs aren't allowed on the stretch of beach from the car-park to the island in the summer (May to September) - but there is an equally delightful forest path behind the beach you can use instead.
2. The Great Orme – Llandudno
This famous limestone peninsula which dominates the landscape around the seaside town of Llandudno is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Heritage Coastline.
Rich in industrial heritage, with many sites of archaeological interest and some rather curious Kashmiri goats (they like picnics very much), the Great Orme has lots to offer. The walk around the peninsula is about 6 miles long, but there are many tracks and trails that allow you to explore the beauty of this local landmark and enjoy incredible views from the summit.
Dog-friendly pie, chips and a pint: The Kings Head
3. Anglesey Coastal Path - Amlwch to Moelfre
Perhaps the loveliest spot on this stretch of coastline is Traeth yr Ora. A secluded sand and shingle beach separated from Lligwy beach by a line of rocks jutting out into the water.
There are many interesting tales associated with this stretch of coastline, as well as the islands which sit just out from the bay. Prisoners Island is visible at low tide between Dulas Island and the shore. Legend states that convicted criminals would be tied to these rocks and left to drown at the tide came in.
If you want a shorter walk, try the reverse route from Lligwy Beach car park.
Walking a mile North of Lligwy beach along the Wales coastal path, which has delightful views of grassy headlands, as well as the beautiful expanse of sea and horizon. You’ll soon reach Traeth yr Ora, which is arguably the best beach in this area of Anglesey.
Dog friendly pub lunch: Kinmel Arms
4. The Edge of Wales Walk - Llyn Peninsula
This 95 mile stretch of coastal path runs right the way around the Llyn Peninsula from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. It combines elements of the Wales Coastal Path and the historic Pilgrims Way which dates back to the pre-Christian era.
With ancient standing stones, Pilgrim Churches, Holy Wells and of course Bardsey Island, this is a rare and unspoilt coastline where wildlife thrives. Expect to see seals, dolphins, sea birds and wild plants abound.
Fear not, if your feet ache just at the thought of such a long hike, the path has been split into sections, so you can enjoy as little or as much as you want to.
For a wonderful coastline ramble with your dog, we’d recommend either the Morfa Nefyn to Tudweiliog stretch or Aberdaron to Mynydd Mawr stretch.
Dog-friendly beachfront beers: Ty Coch Inn
5. Taith Ardudwy - North West Snowdonia
The Ardudwy Way takes in some of the best coastal and mountain views in Wales. It includes a range of prehistoric sites, varied terrain and gives plenty of opportunities to observe rare birds and plant life.
The whole path stretches for 24 miles, but is split across 3 main sections which are all clearly waymarked and easy to access.
The 12 mile section heading north from Harlech to Llandecwyn is our favourite, as the view across the estuary is quite simply, outstanding. Once known as the Kingdom of Merionydd, the region is steeped in ancient history, legend and mythology which makes it an immersive and inspiring hike.
Pack up some essential supplies and get a good meal inside you before you set off, as there are no places to get a drink or food once you are on the path.
Dog-friendly full Welsh breakfast (with views!): Plas Restaurant Harlech
We'd love to hear about your favourite North Wales dog walks - share pictures of your four-legged friends enjoying their day out on Twitter or Facebook and we will feature the best walks and pictures in a future blog.