Ceredigion Coastal Footpath

If you want to walk along one of Europe's most magnificent coastlines, the 60 miles of Ceredigion Coastal Path from Cardigan to Borth, is now open for ramblers.

The route sweeps around Cardigan Bay from Ynyslas (north of Aberystwyth) and joins the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path at Poppit Sands, just south of Cardigan.

Enjoy the cleanest air and magnificent views over Cardigan Bay.

The Ceredigion Coastal Path was opened in 2008 and will eventually form part of a greater Wales Coastal Path running the length of the Principality. Ceredigion offers something for all walking enthusiasts, from spectacular coastal walks along the Ceredigion Coastal Path affording glimpses of dolphins, seals, porpoise and marine birds or walks offering views of the lush green river valleys of the Teifi, Aeron, Ystwyth and Rheidol and the heathered uplands and forests of the Cambrian Mountains. Here red kites and buzzards can often be seen.

Ceredigion Coastal Path

Poppit Sands near St. Dogmaels, just south of Cardigan, is where the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path joins the Ceredigion Coastal Path. At the start of the coastal path, St Dogmaels, a charming village, has its places of interest to explore as well as a shop, post office, art gallery, several pubs serving good local food and is within a five minute drive to Poppet Sands.

Cardigan, itself lies near the northern end of the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path and the southern end of the Ceredigion Coastal Path. The town lies on the River Teifi and walks extend from the town seaward to the estuary and landward into the river's wooded valley. There is a regular bus service from Finch Square to the start of the walk at Poppit Sands. Cardigan, a market town, is 3 miles away and offers a selection of shops, a theatre/cinema and Heritage museum, amongst many other modern amenities. Many shops are family run, providing friendly service and a wide variety of goods.

From Cardigan several walks such as the one to Mwnt can be made into a comfortable circular walk. However the actual Ceredigion Coast Path section between Mwnt and Cardigan is currently unavailable due to legal proceedings.

Cycling is also very popular. The lanes around Blaenwaun give you the opportunity to cycle along the coast or into Cardigan and along the new cycle track to the castle at Cilgerran.

The coastal path offers excellent walking opportunities connecting all the local beaches. The Cai Bach summer mini bus service also operates a connecting service. The crystal clear waters of the West Wales coast offer excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. Life guards are stationed on the beaches during the holiday period. Local beaches are quiet and clean, with many having won awards or Blue Flags.

Seals and dolphins are regularly sighted along this rugged and beautiful coastline with its secluded caves and Cardigan Bay has been designated the first Marine Heritage Coast in Britain. The Red Kite breeds locally and Choughs are often seen on the sea cliffs.

Coastal plants in Ceredigion, especially those on the sea cliffs and on the thin soils above are much like Alpine plants. They are often exposed to strong winds so they tend to be small and ground hugging.

Moving up the coast, 7 miles away from the market town of Cardigan one comes to the quiet peaceful village of Aberporth. Very good accommodation is within easy walking distance of the beach and shops.

Heading further north, Aberaeron is a thriving town in the heart of Cardigan Bay offering something for everyone. It was one of Wales' very first 'planned' towns, and is situated at the mouth of the River Aeron. All the towns and villages along Cardigan Bay have a long sea-faring history.

There are a number of different walks to suit all abilities from a quiet stroll to the more energetic walks along the rugged cliff tops. Whether you seek a lazy escape or wish to enjoy the activity and recreation the area provides, everyone will find something to enjoy. The Ceredigion Coast Path stretches from Cardigan to Ynyslas (Borth), offering walks galore. Choose from an invigorating walk across wild headlands or a gentle stroll through scenic woodlands.

This area of Wales attracts a diverse holiday crowd including families, surfers, walkers, birdwatchers, anglers and nature lovers (be sure to take time to discover the the Dyfi National Nature Reserve at Ynyslas). The landscapes here is amazing - the AA describes the drive on the B4574 winding through Cwmystwyth as one of the Top 10 Most Scenic Drives in the World!

Although we have been talking about the Ceredigion Coastal Path, your walking adventures don't stop when you come the southern end of it. Poppit Sands marks the northern end of the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, which winds its way around the coast to Amroth in the south. The route provides superb views of cliffs and beaches, sky, sea, and a wealth of marine and bird life.

The placidly sensual, feminine forms of the nearby Preseli mountains where the famous Stonehenge bluestone rock came from, contrasts greatly with the sheer drama of the vertical cliffs tumbling into often turbulent waters of the sea.

All along the coastal path, whether in Ceredigion or Pembrokeshire, one is hugely impressed by the recurring theme of the power that nature has over mankind. Walking anywhere along this coastline is an experience not to be missed.

Article Source: http://www.globetrekkerarticles.com

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