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Wales Way:
Coastal Way Road Trip
The Coastal Way road trip runs the length of Cardigan Bay, an odyssey that threads between blue seas and big mountains. A seaside journey from the Llŷn coast, visiting pretty fishing villages, and the Pembrokeshire coast.
Enjoy stunning views of the rugged coastline, sandy beaches, water sports, a chance to see dolphins and charming seaside towns along the Coastal Way.
It's a perfect road trip for nature enthusiasts, beach lovers, and anyone seeking a relaxing coastal adventure, immersing themselves in the breathtaking scenery and rich Welsh heritage along the Coastal Way.
Visit the West Coast of Wales
On this scenic road trip, traversing the captivating west coast of Wales, you can enjoy walking parts of the Wales Coastal Path. From rugged cliffs to golden beaches, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and diverse landscapes of the coastline. Discover picturesque towns, hidden coves, and ancient ruins along the way, promising a truly immersive and rewarding experience amidst stunning scenery.
Explore the best beaches of Wales as you journey through coastal towns on your road trip. From Cardigan Bay's breathtaking scenery to the historic allure of Harlech Castle, each destination offers unique experiences and opportunities for adventure. Don't miss the chance to visit St. David's, a quaint city steeped in history, where the magnificent St. David's Cathedral awaits to enchant you with its architectural splendour.
☑ Wales Coastal Path:
Set off along parts of the Wales Coastal Path while exploring the captivating west coast of Wales on a scenic road trip. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and rolling hillsides as you traverse the coastal landscapes. Whether you're seeking exhilarating coastal hikes, relaxing beach strolls, or picturesque drives along the shoreline, walking the Wales Coastal Path promises a truly immersive and rewarding experience amidst the stunning scenery of the west coast.
☑ Best Beaches in Wales:
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a scenic spot to enjoy the coastal scenery, Wales' beaches are sure to impress during your road trip. Locate the best beaches by Llŷn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay and Pembrokeshire. Be sure to use the guide to locate the best beaches on your road trip through Wales, and be sure to include visits to some of the best beaches along the coastline.
☑ Pembrokeshire Coast:
Explore the rugged and captivating beauty of the Pembrokeshire Coast on your Wales coast road trip, where dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and picturesque villages await. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Pembrokeshire offers something for everyone. Discover coastal walks, hidden coves, wildlife-rich habitats, and ancient ruins as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
☑ Llŷn Peninsula:
Discover the enchanting allure of the Llŷn Peninsula, where breathtaking landscapes meet rich cultural heritage. Meander along its coastline, beaches and cliffs, offering a haven for coastal walks. Explore charming villages, and uncover ancient ruins and historic sites. And why not add a visit to Bardsey Island, also known as Ynys Enlli in Welsh, a small but historically significant island located off the western coast of the Llŷn Peninsula?
☑ Cardigan Bay:
Discover picturesque Cardigan Bay, where you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, charming seaside towns, and outdoor adventures on your Wales road trip. Explore the stunning coastline, dotted with golden sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and hidden coves perfect for beachcombing and water sports. Don't miss the chance to spot dolphins and seals in the bay.
☑ Harlech Castle: Edward I’s Coastal Fortress:
Experience history come to life by visiting Harlech Castle, Edward I's coastal fortress on your road trip. Harlech Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd". Perched majestically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, this iconic medieval stronghold offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Wales' rich past.
☑ Coastal Towns and Seaside Resorts:
As you trace the scenic west coast of Wales, you’ll encounter charming coastal towns, from the historic harbour town of Aberystwyth to the picturesque village of Aberdaron. Discover their charm and cultural heritage, as you enjoy bustling promenades lined with colourful Victorian buildings, sandy beaches, piers and promenades, mixed with historic buildings, monuments, museums, and landmarks that provide insight into the history of the town.
☑ St David’s:
Explore St. David's, a quaint and historic city with charming streets lined with ancient buildings. Visit the magnificent St. David's Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover its rich history and architectural splendour. With its blend of history, culture, and coastal scenery, St. David's promises an unforgettable adventure on your road trip through Wales.
☑ Wales Way’s “Coastal Way” Maps:
This Wales Way’s Coastal Way road trip is mapped out on 3 Wales’ coast maps, including a flexible driving route. Use the Overnight Stay to locate 180+ campsites, 25+ motorhome stops, pub stops & almost wild spots, 70+ West Coast hotels and 125+ B&Bs, guesthouses and lodges and the Uncover More map pinpoints to 40+ viewpoints, 100+ places of interest, 30+ hidden gems and 10 wild swim spots. This planner is suitable for motorhomes, campervans and caravans as sites are included. If you are travelling in a car, choose to camp or stay in a B&B or hotel.
☑ Wales’ Coast Road Trip Itinerary:
This itinerary is perfect for exploring the West Coast of Wales. The travel guide covers visitor information for 17 destinations along the way, plus loads of links and references. Check out iconic and historic sites, the dramatic coast, the best beaches on the Llyn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay and Pembrokeshire, and walks in the area, plus references and attractions. Browse things to do on the coast, including local experiences and activities available as bookable links. The route is a 190-mile journey, which takes approximately 5 hours 40 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes..
Wales Road Trip Travel Guide: Wales Way: Coastal Way
Save hours searching the internet using our well-researched inspiration and signposting to plan your perfect visit to the West Coast of Wales.
Enjoy a road trip to the West Coast of Wales on this driving route.
Find the best Wales campsites, almost wild spots, pub stops and motorhome stopover spots from our Overnight Stays map.
Travelling in a car? Stay overnight in a hotel or B&B.
This Wales Way: Coastal Way route planner covers guides to 17 destinations and locations.
The Wales Way: Coastal Way destination guide includes references and embedded links to over 90 attractions, experiences, and activities.
Browse from a range of bookable, local experiences and activities, by location, such as tours, boat trips, bike hire, and things to do in the Lakes.
Easily locate viewpoints, hidden gems, wild swim spots and more.
Buy the Coast of Wales Road Trip in two ways:
Individual Road Trip
One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.
All Wales Road Trips
One-off payment: 1 year access. No subscription to cancel.
Read More About the Wales’ Coastal Way Road Trip
What is the Coastal Way road trip?
The Coastal Way is a designated scenic driving route in Wales, United Kingdom. It is one of three national touring routes, alongside The Cambrian Way and The North Wales Way, that form the Wales Way, established by the Welsh Government to showcase the country's diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and attractions.
The Coastal Way, as the name suggests, follows the picturesque coastline of Wales, offering road trippers the chance to explore stunning beaches, seaside towns, and charming villages. It meanders through the coastal areas of West Wales, providing breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches. Along the route, holiday-makers can discover historic sites, nature reserves, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a scenic and leisurely road trip experience.
Where is the Coastal Way and where does it go?
The Coastal Way is a scenic route that follows the coastline of West Wales, starting from the town of Aberdaron in the north. The Coastal Way route winds its way southward along the Welsh coast, passing through picturesque seaside towns and villages. It covers areas such as Porthmadog, Aberystwyth, New Quay, Cardigan, St Davids and the Pembrokeshire Coast. Along the way, road trippers can enjoy stunning coastal views, explore sandy beaches, visit historic sites, and experience the rich cultural heritage of Wales.
The Highlights of the Coastal Way Road Trip
Don’t miss these highlights along the Coastal Way and check out the Uncover Britain Coastal Way road trip itinerary below to see how these fit together.
Wales Coast Path: The Wales Coast Path spans 870 miles along Wales' coastline, including West Wales with its iconic areas like the Llŷn Peninsula, Cardigan Bay, and the Pembrokeshire coast. Llŷn Peninsula: Explore its rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and ancient sites, surrounded by picturesque fishing villages. Cardigan Bay: Known for its diverse marine life, visitors can enjoy sandy shores, rocky headlands, and encounters with dolphins and seals. Pembrokeshire Coast: This area boasts golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming towns. Walkers can enjoy tranquillity, encounter puffins and seals, and explore historic sites.
Llŷn Peninsula: The Llŷn Peninsula, on the Wales coast is renowned for its stunning landscapes, sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages. It boasts dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and rolling hills, making it ideal for walking and panoramic sea views. The area is rich in history, featuring ancient sites like standing stones and forts. Quaint fishing villages offer glimpses into Welsh coastal life. Watersports enthusiasts can indulge in sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. The peninsula is a haven for wildlife, with seabirds and seals frequently spotted.
Best West Wales Coast Beaches: Wales is known for its scenic beauty and pristine beaches. Enjoy the best of Wales’ coast beaches.
Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park: Enjoy a detour from the coast to Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) is the highest mountain in Wales and stands at 1,085 metres above sea level. Experience the magic of a historic steam engine ride. These iconic locomotives, reminiscent of a bygone era, offer a nostalgic journey through the breathtaking Welsh countryside.
Portmeirion: Portmeirion is a picturesque Italianate village, located on the Wales coast, designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1973, the village is renowned for its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and scenic coastal location.
Harlech Castle: Harlech Castle is a medieval fortress built by Edward I of England during his military campaigns in Wales between 1282 and 1289. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its historical significance, architectural grandeur, and scenic location.
Victorian seaside towns: West Wales is home to a charming array of Victorian seaside towns, each with its own unique character and historical charm. These towns, nestled along the picturesque coastline, offer a delightful blend of Victorian architecture, scenic beauty, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Cardigan Bay: Cardigan Bay, located off the west coast of Wales, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity. This expansive bay is not only a haven for dolphins, seals, and various seabird species but also offers visitors picturesque beaches, charming coastal towns, and breathtaking sunsets.
Historical Railways: Experience an array of historical railways including a historic steam engine, a funicular cliff railway and a narrow track gauge railway.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park: A scenic haven of rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and diverse wildlife in southwest Wales, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park offers picturesque coastal paths, historic sites, and charming seaside villages, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
St Davids: Discover St Davids, a town that is home to St Davids Cathedral, the smallest cathedral in the United Kingdom, and visit the St Davids Bishop's Palace, a palace that is one of the most important historic buildings in Wales.
Uncover Britain’s Coastal Way Road Trip Itinerary
Make the most of your motorhome holiday in Wales by accessing the best information on The Wales Way: Coastal Way with Uncover Britain membership for the Coastal Way road trip individually, or buy Wales as a region and join with the other Wales Way road trips, the North Wales Way and the Cambrian Way.
This Wales road trip itinerary will take you to the best beaches to enjoy walks along out-stretched sandy bays, or even for you to take a dip in the sea. Discover dramatic beaches that are popular with surfers.
Visit some spectacular and iconic landmark castles and some of the most popular tourist attractions in Wales, plus one of the best-preserved Roman forts in Wales.
Use the guides for references and search the maps to locate Coastal Way viewpoints, hidden gems, wild swims, and more. Find the best Wales coast campsites from our Overnight Stays map, including Wales campsites as well as overnight stopover spots.
The Wales Way Coastal Way is a great road trip for all types of drivers. If you're looking for a leisurely drive, you can take your time and enjoy the scenery. If you're looking for a more challenging drive, you can take some of the scenic back roads.