Pembrokeshire – Saundersfoot
Saundersfoot is an attractive coastal village with a picturesque harbour and lovely south-east facing golden sands that have received the coveted Blue Flag award and in 2004 earned it the title of ‘Best Beach in Wales’.
Set at the foot of a wooded valley, where the Colby Woodland gardens are to be found, it is a very popular family resort because of the safe bathing and variety of activities that exist in the area, from sailing, swimming, walking, cycling and horse riding. It is very busy in the summer but also draws many visitors at other times because of what it has to offer in terms of relaxation and its proximity to the sea and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
The harbour contains many leisure craft and small commercial boats for trips out in the bay and for fishing, and as well as being great for summer relaxation, one of the highlights on the beach is the New Year’s Day Swim, which attracts hundreds of participants who brave the icy waters to raise money for charity!
Local hotels include the Claremont, the Merlewood, the Woodlands and the Gower Hotels, with bed and breakfast establishments including the Harbourlight, the Wogan and the Moreton guesthouses. There are camping and caravan sites at Saundersfoot Bay Leisure Park and Saundersfoot Caravans and many visitors also stay in self-catering holiday accommodation booked via FBM Holidays and such is the popularity of the place that many pay regular annual visits.
Restaurants include the Kook-a-Ba, Mermaid on the Strand, the Monkstone, the Mulberry and the Orangery, whilst the night life includes The Sands Night Club, the Arches Bar, the Hean Castle Hotel, the Captain’s Table, and the Royal Oak.
There are pleasant walks through the cliff tunnels to Amroth and Wiseman’s Bridge and sporting activities include sailing, sea fishing, football, cricket, bowls, tennis and snooker. The Regency Hall holds regular tea dances and visitors are made welcome at Saundersfoot Model Car Club, St Issell’s Parish Church, St Brides Roman Catholic Church, Hebron Baptist and the Methodist Chapels.
Retail outlets include antique shops like Bronwen’s, Crusoe’s and The Strand Antiques and Collectibles, Stewart’s Seconds, Mermaid and The Village Wine Shop, whilst Folly Farm and the Dinosaur Park are nearby attractions for children.
