Watch Your Step: A Guide to Walking the Famous Wales Coast Path

What to Expect

The coast path, like the coast itself, is a winding route of hills and valleys. There are some particularly brutal ascents. You can double-check the accessibility of your hike on the official website. I have been passed by joggers going up what I would dub “Mordor stairs” (cut into the side of a cliff), so clearly some people manage just fine.

This is Wales, so weather will be changeable. Check the forecast before you go, but always treat it with a grain of salt. Raincoats will be more useful than umbrellas, because the wind is often strong enough to blow an umbrella inside-out.

Alyssa Hollingsworth / Own Work

In addition to rare birds and plants, you’ll also be passing plenty of sheep, and the occasional cow or pony. If you keep your eyes to the water, you can spot seals during certain times of the year. Sometimes you’ll even see the occasional puffin!

Mostly, expect to be amazed! I’m not just saying that to work in a catchy cliché. This coastline is truly awesome, in the old fashioned sense—it fills you with awe. On a stormy day, the power of Welsh weather will remind you who’s boss. On a clear, sunny day, the grass is so green and the water so blue, your eyes will almost hurt with the color.

Alyssa Hollingsworth / Own Work