Blog

Driftwood Boutique Guest House – Rhosneigr

Driftwood Boutique Guest House is one of the premiere places to stay in the popular holiday destination of Rhosneigr on Anglesey.

This fantastic guest house is finished to an extremely high standard and boasts some of the nicest rooms available. Moreover it’s location is perfectly central for exploring the fabulous island of Anglesey.

You won’t need to travel far for amenities and there is so much to do within walking distance if you wish to stay local. We visit Rhosneigr quite often as there are many reasons to do so! Driftwood Boutique Guest House is perfectly located to cater for you needs and desires.

Golf your game? Then say no more, less than 5 minutes walk away is the awesome Anglesey Golf Club. Moreover there are many other great golf courses only a short drive away.

However, where Rhosneigr really stands out from the other holiday destinations on Anglesey is is watersports. The pristine sandy beaches and crystal clear waters are a mecca for enthusiasts and Driftwood Boutique Guest House is perfectly placed to take advantage of all on offer. Boating, surfing diving, wind surfing and we quite regularly snorkel the area in summer.

Beaches? If you fancy relaxing by the sea then Driftwood has you covered! Directly to the rear of the property is the fantastic Crigyll beach. Even in the peak of the holiday season in this popular resort you can have loads of this great beach all to yourself. Great for relaxing by the sea.

There are several more beaches within walking distance such as Rhosneigr main beach just along the road which is a mecca for watersports enthusiasts. Traeth Llydan is great for chilling and listening to the lap of the waves, there are several more as you walk further down the coast. All of which are ample in size and equally stunning.

Driftwood Boutique Guest House following its recent refurbishment looks awesome, just check out those rooms! It’s great too as what Rhosneigr was lacking was some really good accommodation including breakfast to set you up for the day 😀

if you want a truly unique place to stay in this highly sort after location on Anglesey then Driftwood Boutique Guest House gets the thumbs up from us.

Check out the website direct to see more pictures of this truly stunning guest house, it truly is one of the premiere places to stay in Rhosneigr and Anglesey.

www.Rhosneigr.co.uk

Whats more, it’s is really easy to find to due its central location.

Driftwood Boutique Guest House

Station Road,
Rhosneigr,
Isle of Anglesey,
LL64 5QP
Trefignath Burial Chamber

Trefignath Burial Chamber is actually 3 different burial chambers.

To give an idea of just how important this Neolithic site must have been, it contains 3 burial chambers. Moreover the site according to archaeological discoveries was in use for nearly 1500 years! That is a lot of history for one location. These chambers were not built at the same time but added in sequence.

When the site was excavated between 1977-79, charcoal on the site was dated to around 3100BC. That is some age and helps explain how the site was used over such a long time. Flint and chert tools were found as well as hearths. Interestingly one piece was not produced in the local area but came from further reaches of the British isles.

Trefignath Burial Chambers were lost from recorded history up until 1655. From this time it was noted that the chambers were damaged when the stone was used for other purposes, particularly in 1790 when the capstones were removed. This was common across the UK as it was easy access building material for local dwellings. When the capstones were removed it was stated the chambers contained both bones and Urns. Though now lost these would have been a great source of information.

All around the local area are signs of Neolithic history. Several standing stones are located close to the chambers with one clearly visible from the site (Ty Mawr). A relatively short distance away are the Stone Hut circles near South Stack.

The site is now managed by CADW and access is free year round via a simple turnstyle. The site is really easy to find and is located just off the end off the A55, use post code LL65 2TR.
Stone Hut Circles

As it says on the tin! Holyhead’s famous but often under explored historic site the remains of the Stone Hut Circles.

Listening to me in the video doesn’t do it justice at all these are really old and it makes the mind wonder how the inhabitants used to live.

The stone Hut circles are really easy to find and are located on the road to South Stack. There is parking directly opposite the site. It amazes me how many people pass this ancient site on the way up to South Stack. Anglesey is littered with history and a lot of it is right in front of your eyes yet you may never even know.

There are several other ancient sites in the area from burial chambers to a Roman Lookout post just a short walk away. On the way to the site you may see the odd standing stone in fields, all of which were places there millennia ago.

It can be found by using the following post code. Holyhead LL65 1YH

Closet toilets are in the RSPB centre further up the road at South Stack
Capel Lligwy

Ruins of a 12th century chapel, its can be seen on the way to Din Lligwy.

Closest toilets are in the main car park in Moelfre. LL72 8HD, 15 March – 30 September.
St Seiriol’s Well

St Seiriol’s Well is a historic holy site in Penmon, Anglesey. Llocated to the rear of Penmon Priory and nestled in to the hillside.

The wells history goes back through time across multiple millennium and has created both myth and legend.
Penmon Priory
How long does it take to walk around Anglesey?

How long does it take to walk around Anglesey is a good question. The islands stunning coastline and hidden secluded hideaways draw in visitors from around the UK and further afield.

Whether its the views you are chasing or just the challenge, it’s definitely a good one for the bucket list. This mini adventure is one I myself one day hope to fully complete.

At 130 miles the Anglssey coastal path is quite a distance to cover. The daily length of the path you are able to cover will all depend on each individuals fitness levels. This must be factored in whether you are looking to do this as part of a wider group or alone.

There is no definite answer as there are so many potential variables when planning your walk. I’ll cover some of these in more detail as several will require a bit of planning.

With a good fitness level you could do the Anglesey coastal path in 7 days. That’s 18.5 miles a day which is by no means an easy feat for the unprepared. The path is not just a flat walk either and involves many inclines and rougher sections. The weather will also play a large part in your ability to complete the path. More so if you are attempting to complete the walk over consecutive days. The weather can and does vary greatly at times from the forecasts.

Even if planning to walk the Anglesey coastal path over 8 days it is 16.25 miles per day. The happy medium for most will be somewhere inbetween 8 and 15 days. At 15 days, 8.6 miles per section must still be covered.

The 130 miles of the Anglesey coastal path is a long walk to complete. There are several ways which you may plan to complete it. Don’t forget, regardless of how many days it may take you there is the option to complete the walk over multiple visits. This will help free up time to enjoy other aspects of this fabulous island.

All ways of walking the Anglesey coastal path will need some form of plan, some far more than others. Planning a budget is also a good idea depending where you will be staying as you walk the path. Paying for accommodation in advance is usually cheaper and removes the risk of having nowhere to stay. That’s the last thing you need, however outside of the regular holiday times it’s probably possible. Not really something to you want to risk or even attempt during the summer holidays.

Having accommodation booked means you have made reasonable plans on daily travel distance based on fitness levels. Always have a backup plan incase of emergencies, a local taxi number is a good idea. Remember you will most likely be carrying all your clothing etc if attempting the Anglesey coastal path this way.

Moreover if you choose to camp in various places as you walk around the coast, you may have to carry your gear with you. This increase in weight may reduce to amount of miles you can cover per day.

There are various options when choosing to walk the Anglesey coastal path. Some you can do alone or with others, with or without car support.

The most challenging way to complete the coastal path will be over consecutive days. Whether you arrive by car or public transport its going to be a long hard slog. Choosing your start point and keeping to your walking plan is key. Carrying everything with you as you go will be hard but in the end the most satisfying option. Travelling as light as you can is key, more so if camping. If you have friends or family who would like to visit theres a far easier option. They can meet you at various locations on island and keep some of your gear in their car. Or far easier if they are staying at the same location as you each night.

The next option will take far longer and possibly several trips to the island if a visitor. You can simply break the sections of the coastal path into smaller pieces. If you have a good weather forecast you could get a good chunk completed this way. Simply plan your next section around your next trip to Anglesey.

The last option is by far the most laid back approach. I know I said the hardcore way is the most satisfying and for some it will be. However planning your way around Anglesey using circular routes will indeed be a lot slower. However, what better way of exploring larger chunks of the island with each walk. The is also no need to carry around several days or more worth of gear.

You may find more creative ways of exploring the coastal path or using a mixture of the ideas above. Either way or whichever way you decide to make it your own, just do it. It’s a great trip for the bucket list.
Anglesey Shark Purses

Shark purses can be found on all of the islands beaches any time of the year as well as the rest of the UK. Though they are most often found close to were they are laid so to speak. This gives a good indication of the type of Ray or small Shark that is inhabiting a local area of the coastline.

Shark and Ray purses can often be called other things, a popular name for them is mermaids purses. They are often found on there own but do appear in bunches, in particular following periods of unsettled weather. Sharks and Ray purses are attached to items on the sea bed such as sea weed etc. The long curly strands you see on the purses are how they attached and anchored down.

Although shark and ray purses appear similar there are many small differences such as size, shape and colour. Below is a great and handy guide to Ray and Shark purses you will find around the UK. This list covers all of the species found around the Anglesey coastline.
Best Anglesey Coastal walks

When it come to Anglesey coastal walks there is around a 124 miles of coastal path. It circumnavigates the entire island, how good is that! You will are literally spoiled for choice.

Bearing in mind you may have to get back to your car or accommodation, there are also numerous circular walks to take too.

Writing a million word article on all there is too explore would take a year or two, maybe longer. However, luckily for us there are already fantastic books and guides written on this exact subject.

Rather than just say HERE! Read these. I thought if you are looking for ideas then I would share a few of my own best Anglesey walks. Honestly, as I write this I know its going to be a difficult choice on where and why. Everyone has there own preference which may change on the day, just like the weather come to think of it.

Anglesey is a really diverse yet small island with so much to see. There are however a few areas I often find myself recommending to people who have never visited the island.

My best Anglesey coastal walk thats not to be missed is to Llanddwyn Island via Newborough. I’m sure it’s up high up on every person who has ever visited Angleseys list of favourite places. Spectacular views, history and wildlife all rolled in to one. This is definitely, without a doubt, one of the most scenic walks in the UK

It’s very hard to create a top ten list when there are so many jostling for the top spots!

Another of my favourite areas to get out exploring is Holyhead mountain and the Breakwater country park. This area has a mix of terrain but it’s major draw has to be the wildlife. During summer its possible to see Puffins, Seals, Dolphins, Adders, Lizards and more. Peregrine falcons can be seen in the area as well as the rare Chough.

A nice and usually quiet beach walk even in peak holiday season is Rhosneigr through to Crigyll and Cymyran beaches. I know Rhosneigr is busy in Summer but as you steadily leave it further behind you, people fade away too. Try early morning or late evening for a dose of seclusion. During the week you will hear the roar of engines as the RAF train their new pilots.

A little tip- to get away from the summer holiday crowds try exploring the North West Coast of Anglesey. The section of coastal path around Ynys-y-fydlyn is a great place to have a wander with amazing views. It is also part of a larger circular walk starting in Church Bay.

Below are some of the best books to help plan your walking trips around Anglesey.
Ynys Y Fydlyn

Ynys Y Fydlyn is a small rocky outcrop sheltering Traeth Fydlyn.

Due to its location Ynys Y Fydlyn is as remote as can be on Anglesey. Nestled away in the North West corner of Anglesey at the end of a secluded valley. Its location is perfect for views across to the Skerries, a small island with a lighthouse.

When you arrive at Fydlyn you will be amazed at just how beautiful the place is. The little island is tidal so to ramble on them, low tide is a must. There are also several small caves and a few rockpools to explore. Backing up the beach there is a small pond to explore too.

The rocky out crop is believed to have once housed an Iron age hillfort. There are still some signs of it around including the remaining parts of a stone hut circle.

There are only a few options if you fancy checking out Ynys Y Fydlyn. One is the Anglesey coastal path, the other a circular route. Both are easy to find as the coastal path is clearly marked all around the island. There is also a small car park a little under a mile away you can walk from. Grid reference for the car park is SH303914.

You will probably find it a lot quieter than other locations in Anglesey during peak holiday season. It’s a great little walk with amazing views over the sea at times, due to its location its often overlooked.

The closest post code is LL65 4EW, the Pengraig Campsite is also relatively close by.
Best Rockpools in Anglesey

If you are looking for the best rockpools in Anglesey then you are in the right place.

Rockpooling is a favourite beach pastime for all ages, its both fun and educational. Summertime is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore and Anglesey is a great destination for it. With its 130 miles of pristine coastline there are many locations for a mini adventure.

Penmon Rockpool

The great thing about Rockpooling in Anglesey is there is always somewhere to explore regardless of wind conditions. There are plenty of sheltered coves and bays and as the temperature rises so does the amount of species. We have been at times when we have been surrounded by literally hundreds if not thousands of fish.

Little mini species and also quite large fish such as Bass. Some of our favourite finds are Pipefish, Dogfish, Spider Crabs and baby Cuttlefish. The latter resembles a ghost from the pack-man game and a few even squirted ink at us!

Cable Bay

When searching out the best rockpools on Anglesey you need to factor in the tide times and heights. Certain areas may not be fully uncovered on some low tides, this is the only time you can get access to most if not all of them. Moreover when rockpooling you should always pay attention to the tides to avoid being cut off by the incoming sea.

If you follow the above there is tons of fun to be had exploring rockpools. Even if you don’t fancy getting wet you can still watch from the sides. In late summer time pools are chocked with Prawns and various other critters. If you don’t fancy clambering over any rocks there are other places to look. Check out the low lying remaining pools on sandy beaches. Ones with the odd rock with deeper water around it or another feature are usually best. Even if the pool looks empty there is likely critters around, often hiding under weeds. Slowly walking through the pools will result in Prawns and small camouflaged fish to reveal themselves as they move.

Part of the fun of rockpooling is getting out and exploring the area. Whether the pools you come across are near the high water line or the low there is always something to find. Generally speaking the lower down rockpools at times can have a larger mix of species These are at times where you may find much larger fish, crabs and possibly Lobster, trapped by the outgoing tide.

Finding out where is best and at what tide height we’ll leave upto you. Low tide is the key to finding the best Rockpools in Anglesey. Don’t worry, We won’t leave it it there. Below are a few of our favourite locations for finding rockpools on Anglesey.

Penmon Point – The area leading upto and around the lighthouse. Watch out for the slippy kelp covered rocks.

Porth Nobla and Porth Tyn Tywyn – the rocks separating these two beaches are great for finding Prawns.

Church Bay – plenty of smaller rock Pools and amenities close by.

Broad beach – Rhosneigr, plenty of parking a short distance away plus amenities.

Traeth Lligwy – follow the tide down on the right hand side of the beach

Trearddur Bay and Porth Dafarch – amazing beaches with rockpools

Last but far from least and our favourite area to explore (wasn’t sure if we should share this). The starting point of Ynys Feurig or otherwise known as starvation island. Here we have had the most amazing experiences with Rockpooling, its our number 1 spot we have found so far.

It’s a bit of a walk from Rhosneigr so quite a remote spot with no amenities close by. We will often snorkel here too a few hours before low tide. There are bound to be numerous other places to explore to find the best rockpools in Anglesey. But this is ours!

There are a few things to take with you to make your day more memorable. A camera or action camera, net and a clear bucket. Plus food and drinks as needed, it’s a decent little walk.

Below is a bit of video from a few years ago now on an old cheap action camera at Starvation island.

A more modern video from April 2021

Get out and explore!
Snorkeling in Anglesey

If you are looking at visiting and snorkeling in Anglesey then believe me, you are in for a treat.

Anglesey has 130 miles of pristine coastline full of nooks, crannies and sheltered bays. All of which can be explored when following the Anglesey coastal path. It is a great way of finding interesting areas to pop on your snorkeling gear and explore.

When choosing Anglesey as a snorkeling destination you will be spoiled for choice. What makes it a great location to explore? Variety, whatever way the wind may blow on this fabulous island there is almost always a sheltered spot to try.

Moreover just like its diving locations offshore, the coast inshore is full of life. There really is nothing better than watching marine life going about its business. In fact some areas are absolutely stunning when the sun is shining. A gentle ripple on the surface can create sublime patterns like energy pulsing across the sea floor.

I’m talking from experience too, although I mainly snorkel across the South and West coast of Anglesey. Summer as you may expect is the best time to see what underwater Anglesey has on offer. At times there are literally thousands of fish fry as well as full grown and large species just yards from the shore. The list also includes Lobster and crabs too, especially when the Spider Crabs are around in numbers.

A few tips if you are new to snorkeling in Anglesey or anywhere in the UK really.

You maybe basking in glorious warm sunshine but when submerged in water it can soon get cold. The upper area of water, sometimes around two feet may feel warm at first but will soon cool you down. Any lower than this and the water is a lot colder, but don’t let that put you off.

Dress for the occasion! Shorty type neoprene wetsuits can be found in supermarkets in summer for around £10-£20. These aren’t perfect but can make a big difference in the time you can spend in the water. They will also help keep you warm when you get out, secondly they will stop you getting sunburn (covered areas only)

The best option is a full length wetsuit however these can be considerably more expensive. You will be more comfortable if spending a longer time in the water. Trust me, it can get addictive and you don’t want the cold to ruin your experience. Both shorty and full wetsuits will aid your buoyancy in the water too.

Whenever you get cold it’s always your extremities that feel it first. We tend to use cheaper shorty style wetsuits with neoprene socks or boots and occasionally gloves. These will help keep you warmer longer and also avoid cuts to feet and hands. Some stones / rocks and shells can be sharp so it’s a win win situation.

I personally use a full face snorkeling mask for great visibility and at times just float in a star position. It’s awesome for relaxing and watching what is going on around you. A full face mask is great for this reason but you will struggle to dive under if you fancy a closer look at anything. It’s effectively a big buoyant bubble of air around your face.

As with all watersports, when snorkeling in Anglesey or anywhere safety is paramount. Try to go out with someone else and take regular breaks where the mask is fully removed.

Have fun and stay safe.