Anglesey National Landscape – Coastal Paths, Cliffs and Island Walking Around Ynys Môn

Rocky Headlands, Wide Beaches, and Open Island Landscapes Along the North Wales Coast

The Anglesey National Landscape — formerly designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — covers much of the coastline of Ynys Môn (Anglesey) off the north-west coast of Wales. Shaped by self-guided travel, walking, routes, landscapes, and places, the island links the Wales Coast Path with settlements including Holyhead, Beaumaris, Moelfre, Rhosneigr, and Amlwch across a varied shoreline of cliffs, sandy bays, dunes, heathland, and open farmland.

Walking here is shaped by continuity around the coast rather than sustained elevation. The ground alternates between firm coastal paths, grassy clifftops, sandy beaches, dune systems, and quiet inland lanes. Gradients are generally gentle to moderate, with short climbs onto headlands and easier stretches along low shorelines and fields, allowing steady progress over long distances.

The Wales Coast Path gives clear structure to movement across the landscape, tracing a continuous circuit around the island. The route links beaches, small harbours, lighthouses, and historic villages, creating natural day stages between settlements. Inland rights of way and minor roads connect farms and commons, allowing circular routes and shorter local walks away from the coast.

Walking in Anglesey is defined by openness and exposure to sea and sky. Paths run along cliff edges above rocky coves, cross wide sands at low tide, and follow low dunes and saltmarsh where the landscape feels quieter and more sheltered. Inland, the terrain becomes pastoral, with hedged fields, stone walls, and grazing land reflecting long-established agricultural use.

Village-based walking forms a steady rhythm around the island. Around Holyhead Mountain, routes climb onto higher ground with wide views across the Irish Sea. Near Moelfre and Benllech, paths link small bays and fishing villages along gentler coastline. At Beaumaris, walking follows the Menai Strait with views toward Snowdonia (Eryri), while around Rhosneigr and Aberffraw, dunes and broad beaches create longer, level stretches close to the shore.

Seasonal change shapes the experience. Spring and summer bring wildflowers along clifftops and longer daylight hours for extended coastal stages, autumn introduces stronger winds and shifting seas, and winter offers quieter paths and clear views across the water.

Beyond walking, the landscape supports other quiet outdoor activity. Cycling follows minor island lanes, paddling and sailing take place along sheltered straits and bays, and wildlife watching is common around cliffs, wetlands, and offshore islands. The area rewards unhurried exploration and attention to tide times and weather.

Accommodation and services are spread through coastal towns and villages including Holyhead, Beaumaris, Rhosneigr, and Amlwch, with rail connections via Holyhead and Bangor providing straightforward access. This makes the island well suited to both short stays and longer car-free walking journeys.

For walkers seeking varied coastal routes, open horizons, and a complete island circuit of connected landscapes and places, the Anglesey National Landscape offers a cohesive and practical setting for steady, self-guided travel.

Where to Walk and Explore

Wales Coast Path (Anglesey Circuit)

‍‍A continuous shoreline route circling the island, linking beaches, cliffs, villages, and harbours over varied coastal terrain.

Holyhead Mountain & South Stack

‍‍Higher clifftop walking with lighthouse views and some of the island’s most elevated ground.

Beaumaris & the Menai Strait

‍‍Level waterside paths along the strait with views toward the mainland mountains.

Moelfre to Benllech Coast

‍‍Gentler walking between sandy bays and small fishing villages along the east coast.

Rhosneigr & Aberffraw Dunes

‍‍Broad beaches and dune-backed routes across open sand and low heathland.

Landscape Highlights

• Continuous coastal walking around the full island on the Wales Coast Path
• Rocky cliffs, sandy bays, and dune systems
• Gentle gradients suited to longer day stages
• Harbours, lighthouses, and historic seaside villages
• Open farmland and low heathland inland routes
• Wildlife along cliffs, wetlands, and offshore islets
• Rail access via Holyhead for car-free journeys