Anglesey (Ynys Môn) lies off the coast of North Wales, separated from the mainland by the treacherous waters of the Menai Strait. The island's finest treasure is it's coastline, which boasts some of the finest and most varied coastal scenery in the British Isles. The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path encircles this enchanting island, taking in sweeping sandy beaches, expansive dunes, tidal estuaries, rocky headlands and towering sea cliffs. Along the way it visits quaint fishing villages, explores bustling seaports and passes numerous reminders of Anglesey's long and colourful history. Anglesey is also noted for its abundant flora and fauna. From the spring to the autumn the island is carpeted with flowers of every hue, the sea cliffs and offshore islands provide a home for a wide variety of birds, seals are a common sight and dolphins can often be glimpsed from the shore.

The island's close proximity to the mainland of North Wales adds drama to the views from the coast path: from almost any point along the trail the mountains of Snowdonia or the hills of the Llyn Peninsula provide dramatic backdrops to the views.

Highlights of the trail include the attractive villages of Cemaes, Moelfre and Aberffraw; Amlwch's lovely old harbour; the spectacular views from Holyhead Mountain which takes in almost the entire island, the mountains of Snowdonia, the hills of the Llyn Peninsula, the Isle of Man and the mountains of Ireland; Thomas Telford's graceful Menai Suspension Bridge, the world's first large iron suspension bridge; South Stack Lighthouse and seacliffs; Penmon Priory and Dovecote; Barclodiad y Gawres burial chamber, the largest Neolithic tomb in Wales; the Church of St Cadwaladr at Llangadwaladr, a former royal chapel and burial ground; the delightful town of Beaumaris with its wonderful castle, Jacobean courthouse and chilling Victorian gaol.

Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path © CWH