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This stunning beach is a 'bit of a journey' to get to, but it's absolutely worth it
This stunning beach is a 'bit of a journey' to get to, but it's absolutely worth it
Porth Ceiriad is one of the most popular beaches in north Wales - but it's not easy to find and is often described as a 'hidden gem' in reviews, and for once, this label is well-deserved
The Llŷn Coastal Path runs above Porth Ceiriad beach
(Image: Chris Andrew/Wiki )
Porth Ceiriad, nestled on the Llŷn Peninsula in Gwynedd, is a gem of Wales' coastline that you'd expect to be teeming with crowds due to its golden sands and vast views.
Despite being voted one of the most scenic beaches on the peninsula, visitors are few, with Tripadvisor reviews praising its beauty despite the lack of facilities, a long walk across fields and steep steps to get there.
The seclusion found at Porth Ceiriad is actually a significant part of its charm, offering tranquillity during the week that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
A recent visitor wrote about the the beach's serene appeal: "One of my favourite places! True mind escape. No mobile connection, no wifi, love it."
Even with its popularity among those who know of it, this idyllic spot manages to remain less frequented, a fact that regulars no doubt appreciate. Its deceptive closeness to Abersoch and the enveloping cliffs adds to the mystery of finding this secluded beach, as reported by North Wales Live.
The adventure of discovering Porth Ceiriad is well-known locally, earning the moniker of the "Porth Ceiriad Mystery Tour" because of the curious case of disappearing tourists led astray by unreliable satnav directions and confounding maps.
One puzzled reviewer from Newcastle upon Tyne confessed, "Don't ask me how we found the beach," while a couple from England shared their own strenuous escapade: "Bit of a journey to find it (even using Ordnance Survey map and satnav! ! ! )," but they later referred to Porth Ceiriad as their "stunning almost secret beach".
Porth Ceiriad is repeatedly dubbed a "hidden gem" within reviews, and this time, it's truly earned the accolade. In a recent Millets outdoor retailer survey, Porth Ceiriad was rightly named fifth on the list of "Wales hidden gems".
Wondering how to reach this secluded spot?
Set off from Abersoch via Lon Sarn Bach and keep going straight over the Sarn Bach crossroads. Then, roughly 0.7 miles beyond, take a left onto Lon Groes, which is marked by a green electricity substation.
(Image: Google )
A contactless payment barrier (costing £3) at the once operating Nant Y Big campsite reveals a path that leads towards the beach. Atop the craggy cliffs, there is a car park that dares drivers to feel like they're inches from driving over the brink.
For those who choose an earlier turn off towards Bwlchtocyn, another more compact car park awaits on the far side of the village, accessible through cattle grids and equally slender lanes. This alternative parking site only takes coins (£2-£4 for a stay up to four hours, or £5 for the entire day).
One holidaymaker remarked, "It's an adventure to get there on single track country roads. Good luck with the tractors coming through in the opposite direction. But, wow, it's worth the trek!".
Porth Ceiriad is renowned for offering what many consider being the best surf across the Llŷn Peninsula. It's a delightfully sheltered bay with calm seas in summer, but when winter rolls around, the dynamic changes drastically.
The south-facing beach awakens to dramatic life if conditions align, its distinct shape and sudden depth change conjuring up some imposing waves.
Unlike the more tempestuous Porth Neigwl nearby (also known as Hell's Mouth), Porth Ceiriad's waves draw in seasoned surfers looking for a hefty challenge. Holidaymakers might dip their toes into these enticing waters, yet they too must respect the potential dangers of rip currents, similar to those found at the much larger beach just next door.
A couple enjoying a quiet weekday visit recently noted how they seemed to have the whole place to themselves – by the time they left, only a couple of other souls had appeared. Contrast that with a busy Saturday in summer, and you'd find the bay bustling with watercraft of all sorts, from kayaks to jetskis, and sailboats - a magnet for watersports aficionados.
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While boats often provide the easiest means of arrival, trekkers are equally compensated with stunning views accessible off the well-trodden Llŷn Coastal Path.
Visitors enamoured with the charm of Porth Ceiriad have been effusive in their praise, as one remarked: "This beach is incredibly beautiful," and hailed it as "Probably one of the best I've been to in the UK. If you like your beaches secluded, surrounded by a bit more wilderness, then this is for you."
In agreement, a family from Manchester described Porth Ceirad as the "best UK beach by miles" adding: "Been coming here for 45 years, and it's our fav beach in the whole world. Dramatic. Off the beaten track and simply stunning."
