The Anglesey Walking Festival provides us with a unique
opportunity to get to know all sorts of things about this fantastic
Island. The huge range of walks and other events are absolutely
free of charge!
The festival offers everyone and anyone the chance to benefit from
the amazing range of expertise present locally. Knowledgeable and
experienced people lead the walks and events and their knowledge
and enthusiasm brings all the unusual and interesting things about
Anglesey alive. It really is a brilliant chance to discover and
enjoy the coast, the interior, geology, history, legends and
extremely diverse wildlife of Anglesey.
Walking, cycling, climbing and more
The title 'Walking Festival' conceals the fact that in addition to
a variety of fabulous walks, you can also take part in other
activities such as cycling, rock climbing and rock pooling. Not
only are there day time walks, but some fascinating sounding
evening events to enable you to discover nocturnal creatures such
as bats and moths. I also spotted some star-gazing in this year's
schedule; there is really anything you can think of in terms of
discovering Anglesey.
My Recommendations
Just a few things that jumped out at me from the brochure:
- Creative writing in Beaumaris Gaol;
- A walk to the beautiful Llanddwyn island to hear local stories
of Welsh folklore;
- A seafaring history walk at Moelfre;
- A chance to discover how Anglesey Sea Salt is made;
- Learn how to forage for wild foods and about medicinal
plants;
- Walk with a talented landscape photographer
- Go mountain biking in the rainbow landscape of Parys
mountain
- Take part in a 100km cycle challenge!
I have personally led several walks for the Festival and really
enjoyed the experience of sharing parts of Anglesey with people
that they might not otherwise have discovered. I particularly love
showing off the amazing local wildlife and witnessing the pleasure
people have in gaining a first-hand experience of spotting a seal,
recognising the rare chough, seeing a puffin for the first time and
learning the names of the wonderful variety of wildflowers. It is
great to share enjoyment with like-minded people and I think taking
part in the festival is wonderful opportunity to do just that!
One year I led the Holy Island Challenge walk to complete the
full 26 miles around the dramatic and varied coast of Holy Island
over two days. Some of the best wildlife and most spectacular
scenery is found on this extreme north west tip of Anglesey. Every
different walk or event this year offers a unique take on the
special features of Anglesey, and each guide will give you an
authentic island experience. I would highly recommend it!
Find out more
This year the Anglesey Walking Festival runs from May
21st until June 4th. The PDF version of
the Walking Festival brochure can be downloaded from www.angleseywalkingfestival.com
and further information obtained from Menter Mon on 01248 725700 or
01248 725719.
Please make sure you do book in advance and come suitably equipped
for your chosen activity. You are asked to arrive 15 minutes
beforehand to allow the walk/event to start on time.
Where to Stay
We have plenty of holiday cottages to choose from all across
Anglesey - of base yourself in the heart of the island so you
are only a short hop from everything. We also have plenty of
dog friendly accommodation; some
of our cottages will also accept more than one pet - please just
ask.