Wales is home to some stunning stretches of coastline, but there’s one beach that has been highlighted as the most picturesque, as visitors compare it to being abroad
This stunning shore has been named the prettiest in Wales(Image: Getty Images)
The prettiest beach in Wales has been named, with ‘pure white sand and clear waters’ against a dramatic backdrop.
Nothing says summer like a trip to the beach, even on those slightly gloomier days, with stretches of golden coast against the Welsh rolling hills and the sound of lapping waves. Luckily for us, there’s a plethora of stunning shores to take advantage of, with the likes of Rhossili Bay, Barafundle Bay and Whitesands Bay, among the most popular to visit.
Yet there’s one beautiful beach that warrants attention, thanks to its sweeping stretch of sand, backed by undulating dunes and towering mountains. Visitors have even mistaken themselves for being abroad after time spent on the unspoilt shore, and have hailed it a ‘Welsh gem’, so it’s only right that it’s been thrown into the spotlight.
The golden sand beach is framed by the Snowdonia mountains and Cardigan Bay(Image: Getty Images)
Harlech Beach in Gwynedd, nestled within the Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, has been named as the most picturesque beach in Wales, following research by DFDS. The four-mile stretch of golden coast, framed by the Snowdonia mountains and Cardigan Bay, is certainly a major factor in Harlech’s latest acknowledgment, along with its striking backdrop of rolling dunes and an ancient castle.
Harlech Castle is a World Heritage Site and can be easily accessed from the beach via a 400m path, making it a prime attraction after time spent along the coast. Meanwhile, the sand dunes at Harlech Beach are part of the reason the area is designated a National Nature Reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Unsurprisingly, Harlech Beach offers stunning views and ample space for time spent on the soft, golden sands, whether it’s to kick a ball around, build a sandcastle or enjoy a brisk walk. There’s a handy car park near the beach, along with a café, shop and the world-famous Royal St David’s Golf Club, which is ranked among the best in the UK.
Following a trip to Harlech Beach earlier this year, one traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “I went here for a day trip with my son. The beach is incredible. Gold sand, clear water. I felt like I was abroad.”
Visitors have been taken aback by the pristine scenes found at Harlech Beach (Image: Getty Images)
A second commented: “We explored Harlech and its beach, and we’re amazed at this beautiful beach. Pure white sand dunes and a long, shallow beach, perfect for children.”
“Wow – what a beautiful beach,” a third hailed. “Discovered this by accident when visiting Wales and couldn’t get enough of it. The beach is vast, with plenty of room to find a quiet spot if you are looking for solitude, even on a busy and sunny day. You can also take dogs on one half of the beach, which was excellent. Ample parking, beautiful castle backdrop and miles of beautiful white sand. 5* from me.”
Another dubbed it a ‘Welsh gem’ and wrote: “What a fantastic unspoilt beach. There is a reasonably priced pay-and-display car park before the 10-minute walk to the beach. You can walk to the right towards the estuary with views of Snowden and Portmeirion.”
Top 15 best beaches and coves in the UKBlackpool Sands, DevonSandbanks Beach, DorsetBotany Bay, KentKynance Cove, CornwallPorthcurno Beach, CornwallLulworth Cove, DorsetDurdle Door, DorsetWest Wittering Beach, West SussexWoolacombe Sands, DevonAchmelvich Bay, Scottish HighlandsHarlech Beach, Gwynedd, WalesBamburgh Beach, NorthumberlandLuskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, ScotlandCamber Sands, East SussexHolkham Beach, Norfolk
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