Luxury holidays in Pembrokeshire

Jutting into St George’s Channel, edged with miles of sandy beaches, and teeming with plant-life and wild and winged creatures, Pembrokeshire entices sun seekers and naturalists alike. Pembrokeshire’s diverse wildlife and dramatic scenery rivals that of Tuscany and Provence, with flower-strewn headlands and sheltered coves. The Welsh county has an eco-conscious attitude, and the Pembrokeshire Coast Path – a trail which traverses limestone cliffs, red sandstone outcrops and flooded glacial valleys – is the perfect gateway to its unspoiled beauty. Ferry hop to Skomer, Grassholm and Skokholm islands for a rare glimpse of sheltered puffin, guillemot and grey seal habitats. Surf, sail and sunbathe at Poppit Sands, or explore a handful of Pembrokeshire’s plentiful relics in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, home to a 12th-century cathedral and 14th-century palace. From the town of Tenby to the seaside resort at Saundersfoot, you’ll stumble upon historic pubs and candy-coloured houses ¬– the refined remnants of Victorian spa towns, and the perfect backdrop for an idyllic getaway.

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Areas in Pembrokeshire

When to go

The prime period for wildlife spotting is from April to October; island ferries stop running in the winter months. Pembroke Festival (http://www.pembrokefestival.org.uk), a four-day celebration of local talent and the county’s history, takes place in July; in June, Pembrokeshire Fish Week allows visitors a taste of the county’s freshest local delicacies.

Getting there

  • Planes

    Haverfordwest, Fishguard and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park are all just a two-hour drive from Cardiff International Airport, the closest international link which can be reached directly from various European destinations, including Amsterdam Schipol Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle.
  • Trains

    Main stations at Haverfordwest, Fishguard and Pembroke Dock make it easy to travel through Pembrokeshire by train. The sustainable transport project Greenways has developed scenic walks from each station, so you can hop off and roam the countryside. Arriva runs a service from Fishguard and Pembroke Dock to Cardiff, Swansea and Cheltenham Spa; and a train from Haverfordwest to Swansea. London, Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham have direct links to Cardiff.
  • Automobiles

    Wales offers excellent scenic drives. Rural roads make a car a necessity for travelling through the country, but strap on your bike rack if you prefer eco-friendly exploration. Rent a car from Avis in Pembroke Dock or Swansea, or drive to Haverfordwest from London, Liverpool and Birmingham in four-and-a-half hours, or Birmingham in three hours.