Bardsey Island Islandeering route.

Key Facts

• Location: North Wales
• Terrain: Rugged hill walking, easy paths
• Access: Bardsey Island Boats (Call Colin on 07971 769 895) leave from Porth Meudwy
• Height gain: 233 metres
• Map: OS Explorer 253 Llyn Peninsula West
• Starting point: Bardsey Quay. Grid Ref SH 116 211

Bardsey Island walk

There is a coastal circuit around Bardsey Island on an easy to follow path that includes an ascent of its 167 metre mountain, Mynydd Enlli. The route passes the sites of many of the islands myths, legends and ruins with plenty of opportunities to spot dolphins and other wildlife along the way. It crosses the narrow isthmus to explore the deep inlets and gullies of the south before returning to the quay.

From the slipway turn right and walk along the grass track towards two stone pillars and gate posts. Walk along the main gravel track towards the houses and barn ahead. Go through two metal gates and head to the farm on the right reaching the café housed in its small outhouse.

From the café take the small grass track uphill alongside the farm buildings. Pass through a gate to follow the path uphill through the bracken. Climb to the Col where there is a stop-sign to warn about the nesting birds on the east flank. At this point follow the skyline climbing steeply though the gorse on a relatively clear path to reach the main ridge.

At the summit the Llyn peninsula can be seen along with the agricultural west of the Bardsey and beyond the lighthouse to the southern tip. Follow the ridge line to its end and then descend through a garden of rock, heather and bracken. Towards the end of the descent head southwest to the Celtic cross of the chapel. At a T junction turn right to meet the coast at Bee Nant by crossing the fence line and then a stile near the cliff edge.

Take the small coastal path and cross a small stream and kissing gate before arriving at the wildlife hide at Penrhyn Gogar. Then continue along the grazing land using the clear coastal path for approximately 1.5 km.

Cross the isthmus with its swimming beach and bird hide on the sandy crescent-shaped bay and follow the footpath through the middle of the tombola. Pass through a gate to the lighthouse and make a circuit of the south of the island where there are deeper inlets to explore.

Return to the harbour and the resident seal colony. To explore further inland walk north along the main lane from the jetty to visit the Bird Observatory (9), toilets (10) and the apple tree roots at Plas Bach.

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