There are more than a thousand islands around the United
Kingdom and some of the most beautiful are off the coast of North
Wales (not that we're biased!). They offer great opportunities for
those seeking adventure. Read on for the full run-down!
Ynys Llanddwyn
Ynys Llanddwyn is named after St. Dwynwen, the Welsh patron
saint of lovers. St. Dwynwen's day is celebrated on January 25th
rather than February 14th (that's right, the Welsh get Valentine's
Day, too). It is a magical and beautiful spot and many a proposal
has taken place here!
Insiders tip:Check the tide times before you cross the sand on to
the island to avoid getting stranded.
Anglesey
The largest island off the North Wales coast is the Isle of
Anglesey accessed via Menai Bridge over the Straits. With 125 miles
of beautiful coastline it offers a playground for those seeking
adventure in the great outdoors. The coast is dotted with blue flag
beaches, rolling dunes, hidden coves and cliffs that tower
overhead. Those wanting an adrenaline rush can take to the water
sailing, surfing, kayaking, gorge scrambling, sea paddlin, rock
climbing and coasteering. Dive beneath the waves to experience a
rich underwater world full of reefs and shipwrecks. Perhaps take it
in at a more leisurely pace, enjoying the scenery along the coastal
path.
There are a number of beautiful smaller islands off the coast of
Anglesey too, great for exploring on foot when the tide allows or
viewing from the water's edge.
Puffin Island / Ynys Seiriol
Enjoy one of the cruises on offer and see the birdlife, the
interesting geology and maybe Puffin! A cruise around the
island will allow you to soak up much of the ubiquitous wildlife.
Look out for a seal basking in the sunshine, maybe a porpoise and
if you are lucky a pod of dolphins. The ruins of a 12th century
church dedicated to St. Seiriol can still be seen on the island and
it is rumoured that St. Seiriol is buried there alongside King
Maelgwyn gwynedd, ruler of North Wales. The Trwyn Ddu Lighthouse
was build on the island to prevent more shipwrecks. Book a cruise
in Beaumaris and take in the sights or charter a dive boat for a
great nautical adventure.
www.ribride.co.uk
www.starida.co.uk
Seagull Islands
The two Seagull Islands site in the shadow of Bardsey, off the
coast of Aberdaron, and are best known for their large puffin
population. Their relative isolation allows wildlife to thrive.
This stretch of water is known for its strong currents; an
amazing underwater world exists around these islands and it is a
hugely popular dive site, where the sea of kelp and cold water
corals provide the perfect marine habitat. The islands shelter the
beach at Aberdaron allowing only the swell from the south west to
hit it, making it a popular surfing beach.
Bardsey Island
Bardsey Island is just a short boat trip west of the fishing
port of Aberdaron, the tiny island of Bardsey has been a place of
pilgrimage for thousands of years. Not only it is of great
historical significance, in 1985 the island was declared a National
Nature Reserve based on its incredible marine and bird life.
Hugely interesting and rewarding half day trips can be
booked.
www.enllicharter.co.uk
Shell Island
Shell Island started off as a farm dating back to the Doomsday
Book of 1086 and is now home to the largest campsite in the UK and
appeals to those wanting to get away from it al. have a wild
adventure and set up camp with a small fire on the beach. Collect
shells and catch your supper. Find a spot in the dunes with only a
few trees for shelter and escape from it all. A stay at Shell
Island also means that you are perfectly positioned to enjoy all
that Snowdonia has to offer by way of adventures.
Holy Island
The landing point between Britain and Ireland for over 4,000
years, Holy Island is a mix of lush fields and sparkling sandy bays
and the testing cliffs of North and South Stack. There are glorious
beaches at Trearddur Bay, Rhoscolyn, Porth Dafarch and lots of less
known hidden bays to tuck yourself away for the day with a picnic.
Look out for the Trearddur Bay Half Rater, the oldest one
designclass still sailing in Britain, watch them on a race
day...serious competition!! North and South Stack are great to
explore, walk down the steps to see the lighthouse, a perfect spot
to watch the sun go down.
St. Tudwal's Islands
Both St. Tudwal's East and West are privately owned, one of them
by famous modern adventurer Bear grylls and his family, however
they are fantastic to view fro the water and boats can be chartered
from either Pwllheli or Abersoch to view the wildlife up close. Pop
a snorkel on and see life under the waves.
The Skerries
Situated off the northwest coast of Anglesey, is a group of
rocky islets of national importance as a breeding site for
seabirds, in particular the Tern. It is an amazing and memorable
trip to see the wildlife and lighthouse, the Terns swooping
overhead, the Manx Shearwater whizzing over the sea and a Puffin
bobbing around.
