Porthor walk
Explore the rugged coastline on the northern side of the Llŷn Peninsula. This is a great walk to absorb some of the history and heritage of the area.
Total steps: 8
Total steps: 8
Start point
Car park at Whistling Sands, grid ref: SH170293
Step 1
From the car park follow the coastal path waymark along the path between the two old toilet cabins, then through a cluster of willow trees.
Step 2
There are great views of Porthor down to your right. In English, the beach is often called Whistling Sands because of the squeak or whistling sound the sand makes underfoot. Follow the path until you come to a bench and a kissing gate on your left.
Step 3
Go through the kissing gate and follow the path that winds along the coastline. We’ve worked to restore the cliff slopes to your right, using aerial spraying to control bracken and have now returned to the tradition of grazing this coastline with sheep.
Step 4
Keep a good lookout here; you might be lucky enough to spot a seal, porpoise or even a dolphin swimming off the coast.
Step 5
The two islands down to your right are Dinas Bach ('small stronghold') and Dinas Fawr ('large stronghold'). Further along the coastline in the distance you'll see the peak of Mynydd Anelog rearing out of the Irish Sea.
Step 6
Soon after you pass the first of the islands you come to a kissing gate with another immediately on your left. Go through both, following the waymark up a gentle slope.
Step 7
Follow the waymark around the edge of the field up to Carreg. Turn right through the last kissing gate and follow the orange marker past Carreg to the road. Keep your eyes peeled for the distinctive red rock, jasper, which used to be quarried here at Carreg.
Step 8
When you reach the road turn left. After about 650 yards (600m) you'll see a signpost for the Porthor. Follow this lane back to your starting point in the car park.
End point
Car park at the Whistling Sands, grid ref: SH170293
Trail map
More near here
Porth Meudwy coastal walk
A circular coastal walk on the Llŷn Peninsula from Aberdaron along the headland to the small fishing cove of Porth Meudwy.
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