“It’s a proper wild seashore”
The sandy beach is backed by pebbles and greenery(Image: Portia Jones/ WalesOnline)
A beach within 70 minutes of Bristol has been described as an “absolute stunner” despite its apparent lack of popularity.
Sker Beach in South Wales, which can only be reached on foot, has been recommended as a peaceful spot free from crowds or garish seaside shops.
As the most westerly of Porthcawl’s beaches, it is only accessible by walking from Rest Bay. WalesOnline reporter Portia Jones has shared the secrets of this secluded spot following a visit one sunny Saturday morning.
The wild swimming fan wrote: “Reached via a winding coastal path and only accessible on foot, this is one of Wales’ most gloriously deserted beaches, and trust me, it’s worth every step.
“There are no facilities here, including toilets, cafes or lifeguards, so if you’re plodding down here, you’ll need to bring everything with you. It’s a proper wild seashore, free from seaside resort tat shops, whirring arcades and beachside fish and chip shops.”
Given the lack of facilities at the beach, her journey started with coffee and a cake from The Hyde Out Cafe at Kenfig, just a little further inland. Arrows mark out a clear path from there towards the beach, though conservation area and sand dunes that proved a bit of a workout on the ankles.
(Image: Portia Jones/ WalesOnline)
Only a few dog walkers, runners, swimmers and horse riders were visible as she arrived at the shoreline. Portia wrote: “Honestly, I expected this absolute stunner of a South Wales spot to be heaving on a sunny Saturday morning, but nope, it felt like I had it almost to myself.
“Perhaps because this isn’t the most accessible beach in the Vale of Glamorgan, it deters families with young children looking for a beach day with plenty of amenities for the kids. Instead, this vast sandy stretch attracts dog walkers, horse riders and experienced surfers looking for a remote bay to ride the waves in peace.”
The walk to Sker Beach begins at Kenfig National Nature Reserve(Image: Portia Jones/ WalesOnline)
Other visitors have also shared positive reviews, with one writing on Google: “A lovely beach with a mixture of golden sand and pebbles backing onto a large complex of sand dunes.
“The coast path runs along the edge of the sand dunes, and the walk from Porthcawl is lovely, but you can also access the beach from Kenfig Pool car park.
It is an isolated beach, so be careful when swimming. Kenfig pool is lovely and worth a visit as well.”
Another rambler added: “A fantastic walk with outstanding views over the ocean and other bays. There are lots of places to sit and enjoy a picnic, whilst watching the surfers enjoying the waves.”
Kenfig National Nature Reserve, which is the suggested starting point for beach-goers, is an hour and 10 minute drive from Bristol via the M4. The reserve is also home to Glamorgan’s largest natural lake, Kenfig Pool, though it is not open for wild swimming.
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