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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.
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.
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.
For the more adventurous, the areas
magnificent coastline is ideal for sailing (it is known as the 'Cowes of the
North') and other water sports. There are also plenty of facilities for
golf, tennis, walking, fishing and horseriding.
There is an attractive sailing harbour 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!
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.
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 Bardell is a freelance writer who
has contributed features to numerous publications on subjects such as
literature, culture, history and humanitarian issues. She lives in North
Wales and is currently the editor of two popular online guides:
All Info About
Poetry and
All Info
About English Culture. You can reach Paula at
paula-bardell@freelance-worker.com.
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