Saundersfoot to Tenby Pembrokeshire
Explore the beaches and seaside towns of Pembrokeshire’s gorgeous south coast as it bursts into life.
Perched on the western fringes of Carmarthen Bay, the charming seaside towns of Tenby and Saundersfoot are designated conservation areas that offer superb Blue Flag beaches and picturesque harbours. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs between the two towns, presenting walkers with a range of habitats,
from beaches and rocky cliffs to woodlands and farmland. This circular route follows the coast path then returns inland via hedge-lined tracks and quiet country lanes.
1 SAUNTERING ON FOOT
Facing the sea at Saundersfoot, walk right past the harbour, then left up the B4316 until you reach a minor road called The Glen. Follow this to a sharp right-hand bend.
2 IN AND OUT OF TREES
At the bend, follow a path that leads steeply uphill, winding along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path (acorn waymarks). The path drops into woods, where birds titter among the canopies and butterflies flutter around spring flowers. Once out of the trees there are fine views, initially over Saundersfoot Bay and then, once you round Monkstone Point, of Tenby and Caldey Island.
Take your time on this section as it’s a great vantage point for spotting wildlife. Ravens and peregrine falcons often spiral above the cliffs and, if you’re lucky, you might see dolphins and seals playing in the sea.
3 LIKE A POSTCARD
As the classic postcard view of the colourful Victorian houses surrounding Tenby harbour nears, the coast path veers inland and descends into Waterwynch valley. At a driveway leading to Dingle Cottage, follow the acorn sign straight across to join Waterwynch Lane, the last big climb before reaching Tenby. After passing a campsite, the path joins a road that runs along the clifftop above North Beach. The Atlantic waters can still be quite cold in spring, but if you have the time and desire, it’s a good place for a dip.
4 INLAND AMBLE
Continue along the road and turn right on to Norton Road. At a left-hand bend, turn right up steps and follow the path to a drive; bear right along a track past a cemetery. Continue along the tree-lined track and at a bridleway sign turn left along a narrow trail before taking a sharp left at another bridleway sign on to a wide path.
At a meeting of paths, turn right and descend to the busy A478. Cross the road carefully and continue along the track opposite, which drops into a woodland valley.
5 INTO SAUNDERSFOOT
Turn right at a bridge on to a trail that runs below a railway line. After 100m, bear right along a woodland track and climb to Knightson Farm. Turn right past a caravan site to once again meet the A478. Cross over the busy road and follow a path through a housing estate until you reach a main road; you’ll see New Hedges village hall opposite. Turn left on to the B4316 and continue on this road for a mile, through New Hedges, before descending into Saundersfoot.