The Locale
Discovering the Llyn Peninsula - by Paula Bardel
Stretching
from the peak of Snowdon to Bardsey Island (or Ynys Enlli, the 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 wide, it 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 region. An 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 Sands, one 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.