Walking the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path: A Welsh Island Adventure

What I discovered was one of Britain’s most rewarding coastal walks, with all the adventure and magic that comes with exploring somewhere truly special. Having walked it myself, I can genuinely say it’s one of those rare experiences that stays with you long after you’ve hung up your boots.

From the moment I set foot on the trail, I was captivated by the island’s stunning coastline, charming villages, and the gentle rhythm of a life shaped by the sea. I’m excited to share everything I discovered and loved about it with you.

• Why choose the Anglesey Coastal Path?
• How long is the Anglesey Coastal Path?
• How challenging is the walk?
• How many days does it take to walk the whole path?
• What are the highlights of the route?
• Is this the most beautiful part of the Wales Coast Path?
• Where are the best places to add an additional day?
• When is the best time to walk the path?
• Are there accommodation options along the route?
• What is the food like on Anglesey?
• Travel tips: How do I get there?
• How can I book a walking holiday on the Anglesey Coastal Path?

 

Why choose the Anglesey Coastal Path?

If you get a map out and study the coastline of the British Isles, it becomes clear that we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to spectacular coastal walking. The rocky outline, sweeping bays, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves reveal a landscape carved by the sea. Look closely enough and you’ll spot the island of Anglesey, nestled off the north-west coast of Wales.

Anglesey is famous for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, rich Welsh heritage and diverse wildlife. The path clings to the rugged coastline following the contours of the island, winding through the charming villages that call it home.

This is Wales in miniature, showcasing everything that makes the country so special with an added punch of coastal drama. So why pack your bags and go? Because Anglesey is a breath of fresh air, and after two weeks of walking, you’ll have discovered the very best of Wales.

 

How long is the Anglesey Coastal Path?

The trail stretches for 140 miles (225 km), forming a complete loop around the island. Beginning in the charming town of Menai Bridge, the route traces the attractive coastline northward and includes a scenic detour around Holy Island.

Covering 140 miles is no small feat, but the island is well connected by local buses if you ever need a break or wish to shorten a stage, and I can personally vouch for how friendly and helpful the local drivers are. When I accidentally left my bag on one of the buses, it sparked a small rescue mission involving multiple drivers, and what I can only describe as a heroic relay to get it back to me.

 

How challenging is the walk?

As I packed my bag, I couldn’t help but wonder how challenging the terrain would be. In reality, it consisted of a varied but manageable mix of grassy clifftop paths, quiet country lanes, and the occasional sandy beach. There are also a few rocky, uneven stretches in more remote areas.

You’ll encounter a few short, steep climbs – particularly around Holyhead Mountain, which is the highest point on the route. The path is well waymarked throughout, which definitely helps.

While there are some tidal sections that may require brief inland detours, the map we provide clearly shows where the water reaches and the safest place to rejoin the trail.

Anglesey’s landscape is shaped by the tides, adding to the adventure, and we supply all the guidance you’ll need to make your walk a success.

 

How many days does it take to walk the whole path?

Most walkers complete the full Anglesey Coastal Path in around 12 days, often adding a rest day or two to make the most of the experience. It’s a great choice for a two-week break, though you can also walk it in shorter sections if you prefer.

We offer a few different itinerary options on our website, and we’re always happy to tailor the distances and overnight stops to suit your schedule and preferred daily mileage. Just get in touch and we’ll be delighted to craft your own bespoke adventure.

 

What are the highlights of the route?

For me, the standout highlight was the scenery, especially the breathtaking beaches, but Anglesey has plenty to offer beyond the views.

Here are just a few favourites to look forward to along the way:

• South Stack Lighthouse is perched dramatically on the cliffs, with sweeping sea views and seabirds galore. You reach it by descending 400 steep steps carved into the mainland cliffs.
• Ynys Llanddwyn, a picturesque tidal island steeped in legend, featuring the romantic ruins of St Dwynwen’s Church, the Welsh patron saint of lovers.
• Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an unfinished masterpiece built by Edward I in the 13th century. Renowned for its perfect concentric design, the castle is one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Britain.
• Trwyn Penmon Point offers stunning views of Puffin Island, a famous seabird sanctuary perfect for spotting puffins, guillemots, and other coastal birds.
• Menai Suspension Bridge was designed by Thomas Telford and completed in 1826, making it the world’s first major suspension bridge. It remains an iconic gateway to Anglesey over the Menai Strait.

 

 

Is this the most beautiful part of the Wales Coast Path?

The Wales Coast Path is a remarkable accomplishment, tracing the entire 870-mile length of the Welsh coastline. Many consider the Anglesey Coastal Path and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path to be the most scenic sections of the trail, and at Absolute Escapes, we’re proud to offer walking holidays on both.

What makes Anglesey stand out is its circular route, tracing the island’s entire coastline. Completing the full loop offers not just incredible variety and views, but also a satisfying sense of achievement that comes with walking all the way around an island.

Is it the most beautiful part of the Wales Coast Path? Beauty might be in the eye of the beholder, but with golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping sea views, Anglesey certainly makes a strong case.

 

Where are the best places to add an additional day?

Taking a rest day is a great way to make the most of your time on Anglesey. It gives you the chance to explore the charming spots along the route and relax without worrying about covering any miles. Here are some of my favourite places to unwind and discover:

Menai Bridge

• Stroll through the lovely streets of this delightful town, stopping to enjoy its cosy cafés and unique shops.
• Visit Plas Newydd House and Gardens with its vista over the Menai Strait and Eryri Snowdonia National Park.

Beaumaris

• Explore Beaumaris Castle, known as ‘the greatest castle never built,’ with its impressive symmetrical turrets and moat.
• Take a guided boat trip to Puffin Island to spot puffins, guillemots and razorbills.

Holyhead

• Visit the Holyhead Maritime Museum, located in the oldest lifeboat station in Wales.
• For a change of pace, hop on a ferry for a day trip (or longer) to Dublin. Just a short crossing away, the Irish capital awaits with its vibrant streets, historic landmarks, lively pubs, and warm hospitality

Trearddur Bay

• Try coasteering for an adventurous way to explore the coastline – climbing, swimming, and jumping into the crystal clear waters.
• Unwind on the golden sandy beaches, enjoy a swim, and savour the variety of nearby cafés and restaurants offering delicious local treats.

 

When is the best time to walk the path?

We recommend walking the Anglesey Coastal Path from March to October to avoid the darkest time of the year when nature is at its quietest.

Personally, I set off in early April to soak up the magic of spring, when the fields are alive with lambs and wildflowers, and the fresh, crisp air breathes new life into every step. Honestly, there’s really no bad season to explore the coastline of Anglesey.

Summer brings longer, brighter days and warmer waters perfect for swimming in the crystal-clear sea. It’s the time for shorts, sun cream, and enjoying ice creams on the many sandy beaches, with nature bursting into full bloom.

Early autumn offers a different kind of beauty with milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning golden hues across the landscape, making it a peaceful and rewarding time to walk the path.

 

Are there accommodation options along the route?

Anglesey offers a fantastic range of quality accommodation. There are a few locations where taxi transfers are necessary to break up longer days, so you can reach suitable accommodation, but most villages and towns along the path provide a small but good selection of cosy B&Bs, charming inns, and comfortable hotels.

Our Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path packages are carefully priced to reflect the excellent standard of accommodation and included taxi transfers. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

• Anglesey Arms, Menai Bridge
• Sea View Guest House, Benllech
• Trearddur Bay Hotel, Trearddur Bay

 

What is the food like on Anglesey?

One of the biggest surprises for me was just how phenomenal the food on Anglesey is, although I’m not sure why I expected any less. I may have anticipated the usual pub fare, but what I found were classic dishes bursting with flavour.

Anglesey offers a tasty mix of local seafood like lobster, cockles, crab, and oysters, along with traditional Welsh favourites such as Welsh Rarebit and Cawl. From cosy cafés to seaside pubs, I didn’t have a single bad meal. It might feel off the beaten track, but Anglesey’s food scene is far from ordinary.

Here are a couple of my favourite spots to get your taste buds dreaming:

• Pebbles Bistro, Benllech
• The Harbourfront Bistro, Holyhead
• The Oyster Catcher, Rhosneigr

 

Travel tips: How do I get there?

Ready to pack your bags? Be sure to book your walking holiday well in advance so we can secure the best possible accommodation. For the Anglesey Coastal Path, we recommend booking 6 – 9 months ahead.

You might be pleasantly surprised at how straightforward it is to reach the start point on Anglesey. The walk begins at Menai Bridge, which is just a short bus or taxi ride (around 25 minutes) from the nearby city of Bangor.

Bangor is well connected by train, with regular direct services from: London Euston (around 3 hours 15 minutes), Manchester (around 2 hours 15 minutes) and Birmingham via Crewe (around 2 hours 45 minutes).

 

How can I book a walking holiday on the Anglesey Coastal Path?

At Absolute Escapes, we create self-guided walking holidays that let you experience long-distance trails like this at your own pace, with all the logistics taken care of so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Anglesey is one of the UK’s hidden gems: a beautiful island full of character, dramatic coastline, fascinating history, and some of the best food I’ve had on a walking holiday.

If it’s calling your name, take a look at the itinerary options on our Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path holiday page and get in touch – our expert team would love to help you experience everything this incredible corner of Wales has to offer.

Sine Nielsen