Top 5 Walks Around the Llŷn Peninsula

The Llŷn Peninsula offers some of Wales' most spectacular coastal walks, combining dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking views. Here are our top five recommended walks, each offering a unique perspective on this beautiful region.

1. Aberdaron to Porth Meudwy Circular Walk

Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 2-3 hours

This circular route begins in Aberdaron village and follows the coast path to Porth Meudwy, the traditional departure point for Bardsey Island boats. The path offers stunning views across Cardigan Bay and, on clear days, to Bardsey Island itself. The route takes you along cliff tops where you might spot seals in the waters below or peregrine falcons soaring overhead.

The return leg cuts inland through peaceful farmland, offering a contrast to the coastal section. You'll pass ancient field systems and traditional Welsh farmsteads before descending back into Aberdaron. This walk is particularly beautiful in spring when the clifftops are carpeted with wildflowers.

2. Whistling Sands (Porth Oer) to Porth Ysgo

Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 3-4 hours

Starting at the famous 'whistling' beach of Porth Oer, this dramatic coastal walk takes you along some of the peninsula's most spectacular cliffs. The beach gets its name from the squeaking sound the sand makes underfoot - a rare phenomenon caused by the unique shape and size of the sand particles.

The path follows the coastline to the hidden cove of Porth Ysgo, once a manganese mining site. Along the way, you'll encounter dramatic volcanic cliffs, hidden coves, and abundant wildlife. This walk offers some of the best views of the Irish Sea and, on clear days, the mountains of Snowdonia to the east.

3. Mynydd Mawr Coastal Circuit

Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Duration: 1.5-2 hours

This circular walk around Mynydd Mawr (Great Mountain) offers some of the best views of Bardsey Island and the western tip of the peninsula. The relatively easy gradient makes it accessible for most walkers, while the panoramic views make it a photographer's paradise.

The path takes you past the coastguard lookout station, offering a perfect vantage point for watching seabirds and marine life. This is one of the best spots in Wales for watching sunsets, as the sun dips directly into the Irish Sea on clear evenings.

4. Porth Dinllaen Heritage Trail

Distance: 2 miles (3.2 km)
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1-1.5 hours

This easy coastal walk takes you around the National Trust village of Porth Dinllaen, one of the most picturesque spots on the peninsula. The village sits right on the beach, with the famous Ty Coch Inn - voted one of the best beach bars in the world - as its centerpiece.

The walk offers beautiful views across the bay, passes the local lifeboat station, and takes in the historic golf course. It's perfect for families and those seeking a gentler walking experience without compromising on scenic beauty.

5. Trefor to Yr Eifl Mountain Route

Distance: 6 miles (9.7 km)
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 4-5 hours

This challenging route combines coastal and mountain walking, taking in the dramatic peaks of Yr Eifl (The Rivals). Starting from the village of Trefor, the path climbs steeply to the summit of Yr Eifl, offering panoramic views across the peninsula and to Anglesey.

The route passes ancient hill forts and quarry workings, telling the story of human habitation from prehistoric times through to the industrial age. The descent offers stunning coastal views before returning to Trefor's peaceful harbor.

Walking Tips and Safety

Always check weather conditions before setting out, wear appropriate footwear, and carry water and snacks. Many of these walks pass through exposed areas where weather can change quickly. Mobile phone coverage can be patchy, so it's wise to carry a paper map and compass. Most importantly, stick to marked paths and respect local wildlife and farmland.