Bardsey Island: A Serene Escape to Nature's Paradise
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Bardsey Island, a hidden gem off the Welsh coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Bardsey Island, a hidden gem off the coast of Wales, offers tourists a serene escape with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. This picturesque island is perfect for those seeking tranquility and adventure alike. Explore the rugged coastlines, discover ancient ruins, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you.
A brief summary to Bardsey Island
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Local tips
- Take a guided boat tour to reach the island for a unique perspective and to learn about its history.
- Visit during spring or summer to witness the island's vibrant wildlife and blooming flora.
- Bring sturdy walking shoes; many trails require a bit of hiking to fully appreciate the island's beauty.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the island's scenic viewpoints for a truly memorable meal.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit as conditions can change rapidly on the island.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Abersoch, which is located on the Llyn Peninsula in Gwynedd. From Abersoch, take the A499 towards Pwllheli, then follow signs for the A487 towards Aberdaron. Once in Aberdaron, navigate to the harbor where you can find the boat service to Bardsey Island. There are several boat operators, including the Bardsey Island Ferries. Expect to pay around £15-£20 for a round trip. The ferry ride takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Public Transport
To reach Bardsey Island using public transport, take a train to Pwllheli from major Welsh cities like Cardiff or Manchester. From Pwllheli, catch a local bus (number 100) towards Aberdaron. Once you reach Aberdaron, proceed to the harbor for the ferry service to Bardsey Island. Tickets for the bus are around £5-£10, while the ferry costs approximately £15-£20 for a return trip. Ensure to check the ferry schedule in advance, as services may vary depending on the weather.
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Walking
For the adventurous, hiking to Aberdaron from nearby locations is an option. From the village of Aberdaron, the harbor is easily accessible on foot. Make sure to wear appropriate walking shoes and allow enough time to enjoy the scenic coastal paths. This option does not incur additional costs aside from potential transport to get to Aberdaron.
Discover more about Bardsey Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Bardsey Island
0.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Bardsey Island, a hidden gem off the Welsh coast, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Trwyn y Gwyddel
3.8 km
Discover the historical significance and stunning coastal beauty of Trwyn y Gwyddel, a captivating landmark on the Llyn Peninsula.
Porth Meudwy
5.8 km
Experience the breathtaking coastal beauty and rich history of Porth Meudwy, a serene gem in North Wales ideal for nature lovers and adventurers.
National Trust - Porth y Swnt
7.1 km
Explore the stunning Llyn Peninsula from Porth y Swnt, your essential Tourist Information Centre in Aberdaron for local insights and adventure planning.
Ardal o Harddwch Naturiol Eithriadol Llŷn (AHNE) Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
7.2 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich culture of Llyn Peninsula Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Wales, a paradise for nature lovers.
Ogof Ddeuddrws
7.6 km
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National Trust - Plas yn Rhiw
13.3 km
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Llŷn Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
21.5 km
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Moryn
25.2 km
Explore Moryn in Wales, a coastal gem with stunning views, rich history, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Site of Plaid Cymru’s founding
28.5 km
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Canolfan Dreftadaeth Heritage Centre
32.6 km
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Braich Las / Trwyn y Gorlech
33.0 km
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Yr Eifl
33.6 km
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Penarth Fawr
33.8 km
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Tre'r Ceiri Hillfort
34.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Llŷn Peninsula
24.3 km
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Amgueddfa Forwrol Llŷn Maritime Museum
26.7 km
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Snowdonia Attractions
33.9 km
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Amgueddfa Lloyd George Museum
39.1 km
Explore the life and legacy of David Lloyd George at Amgueddfa Lloyd George Museum, a captivating cultural gem in Llanystumdwy, Wales.
Castell Cricieth
41.1 km
Discover the medieval grandeur of Criccieth Castle, a stunning tourist attraction overlooking Cardigan Bay with breathtaking coastal views.
Caeau Tan y Bwlch North Wales Wildlife Trust nature reserve
41.2 km
Explore the diverse ecosystems at Caeau Tan y Bwlch Nature Reserve, a tranquil haven for wildlife enthusiasts in North Wales.
Black Rock Sands Beach
43.8 km
Explore the stunning Black Rock Sands Beach in Porthmadog, a perfect destination for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike.
Black Rock Llamas
46.3 km
Experience the joy of trekking with llamas in the stunning landscapes of Morfa Bychan, North Wales – a delightful adventure for all ages.
Llanfair Slate Caverns
46.3 km
Discover the enchanting Llanfair Slate Caverns, where history meets natural beauty in the heart of Welsh mining heritage.
Harlech Castle
46.9 km
Experience the grandeur of Harlech Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with breathtaking views and rich history in North Wales.
Welsh Highland Heritage Railway
47.9 km
Experience the magic of steam travel in North Wales at the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, a journey through history and stunning landscapes.
Airworld Aviation Museum
48.4 km
Discover the fascinating history of aviation at Airworld Aviation Museum, where every aircraft has a story to tell.
Goleudy Tŵr Mawr
48.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Goleudy Tŵr Mawr, a historic lighthouse offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage in Caernarfon, Wales.
Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls Walk
48.9 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls Walk in Llanbedr, Wales, where nature's tranquility meets stunning waterfall views.
Barmouth Beach
49.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Barmouth Beach, a stunning seaside destination in Wales perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Essential places to dine
The Dining Room
20.3 km
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The Potted Lobster
20.3 km
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Glyn Y Weddw Arms
23.1 km
Experience authentic Welsh cuisine and warm hospitality at Glyn Y Weddw Arms in Llanbedrog – your perfect retreat after exploring stunning coastal landscapes.
Tremfan Hall
23.4 km
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Bombay Joes
26.5 km
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Y Madryn
35.4 km
Experience authentic Welsh cuisine at Y Madryn, where local flavors meet stunning scenery in Chwilog.
Tir a Môr
41.3 km
Experience the best of Criccieth's coastal cuisine at Tir a Môr - where delicious seafood meets stunning sea views.
Poachers Restaurant
41.3 km
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Dylan's Criccieth
41.8 km
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The Goat Inn - Tafarn Yr Afr
42.4 km
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Nineteen.57
46.1 km
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Antalya Kebab
46.5 km
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The Plas Restaurant
46.9 km
Experience authentic Welsh cuisine at The Plas Restaurant in Harlech - where tradition meets flavor amidst stunning scenery.
Caffi Castell Harlech
47.0 km
Discover delightful dishes at Caffi Castell Harlech while enjoying breathtaking views of historic Harlech Castle.
Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe
47.6 km
Experience fine wines and delightful cuisine amidst stunning Welsh landscapes at Pant Du Vineyard and Cafe.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Pwyth Pistyll
28.6 km
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Eifion Stores
41.2 km
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Atig Helens Attic
41.4 km
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Wool & Gifts Harlech
46.9 km
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Castle Gift Shop
46.9 km
Explore Harlech's Castle Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts reflecting the town's rich heritage and charm.
Ludicrous Allsorts
46.9 km
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Hampers Store
46.9 km
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Pwts
46.9 km
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Seasons & Reasons
47.0 km
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Siop Hwylus Penygroes
47.1 km
Explore the flavors of Wales at Siop Hwylus Penygroes, your local supermarket in the heart of Caernarfon.
Adra | Stylish Welsh gifts
47.5 km
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Siop Fawr Portmeirion
47.7 km
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Boho Bazaar
47.7 km
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The Original Factory Shop (Porthmadog)
47.8 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on clothing, beauty products, and shoes at The Original Factory Shop in Porthmadog, a shopper's delight!
Crafts North Wales
47.9 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and local treasures at Crafts North Wales, a charming gift shop in Porthmadog, perfect for authentic souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sun Inn
18.1 km
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Ship Inn
22.4 km
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Aqua Beach Bar Restaurant
23.2 km
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Y Bryncynan, Morfa Nefyn
25.0 km
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Tŷ Coch Inn
25.2 km
Experience the charm of Tŷ Coch Inn, a coastal pub offering delicious local cuisine and stunning views in the heart of Porthdinllaen.
Tafarn Y Plu
39.1 km
Experience the charm of Tafarn Y Plu, a welcoming pub with local ales, self-catering options, and a taste of Welsh hospitality in Llanystumdwy.
Bryn Hir Arms
41.1 km
Discover the warmth and flavor of Wales at Bryn Hir Arms, a charming pub and restaurant in Criccieth offering local cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere.
Prince of Wales
41.3 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Criccieth at the Prince of Wales, where local hospitality meets stunning coastal views in a cozy pub setting.
Tafarn Glanaber
44.9 km
Experience the flavors of Wales at Tafarn Glanaber, a cozy bar and restaurant offering stunning coastal views and delicious local cuisine.
The Goat - Yr Afr
46.8 km
Experience authentic Welsh hospitality at The Goat - Yr Afr, a charming pub in Penygroes offering local ales and hearty fare.
The Ysgethin Inn
46.9 km
Experience authentic Welsh cuisine and local ales at The Ysgethin Inn in Talybont, a perfect retreat for travelers seeking local flavors.
Tafarn Pencei
47.7 km
Experience the charm of Tafarn Pencei, a cozy pub in Porthmadog celebrating local brews and traditional Welsh cuisine.
The Ship Inn/ Y Llong
47.7 km
Experience the welcoming ambiance and delicious local cuisine at The Ship Inn/Y Llong in Porthmadog, a true gem for food and drink lovers.
The Union Inn
47.7 km
Experience the warmth of Welsh hospitality at The Union Inn in Tremadog, where delightful meals and local ales await in a charming setting.
Red Lion
47.8 km
Experience the warmth of Welsh hospitality at Red Lion Pub in Porthmadog, where delicious food and local brews await.
