Half term fun during your
holidays in Pembrokeshire
Half term is the perfect time to enjoy holidays in Pembrokeshire. It’s not as crowded as the summer months, and autumn and spring are lovely times to see this stunning coastal county in all its natural glory. October sees the end of seal season, where you’ll find inquisitive young pups bobbing around their pupping beaches, getting used to their human neighbours. And Easter is when Pembrokeshire emerges from winter with gorse and heather springing from every hedgerow and the red kites put on displays over rolling fields.
Don’t just take our word for it, though. From Atlantic View, there are plenty of fun things for all the family to do during your holidays in Pembrokeshire. From little ones to not-so-little ones, this picture-perfect area of the UK is packed with activities and adventures. Here are some for you to try out during your stay with us.
Splash out!
Think the sea might be too cold in October? Think again! It’s had all summer to roll in and out over hot sand, making October the perfect month to have a swim. On average, the sea temperature in October is 15 Celcius, which is the same as it would be in June and July. So, there are no excuses!
Why not try these water activities?
Surfing:
The wild coastline of St Bride’s Bay offers fantastic waves and draws surfers from all over the world to its tumultuous shores. Why not pop into Haven Sports in Broad Haven to hire or buy your family some surfboards and wet suits? They’ll make sure you’re well prepared for a splashing time!
If you’d rather have instructors for your wet adventures, then give Dragon Activity Guides a call. They do everything from surfing lessons on Broad Haven beach to Pembrokeshire’s original watersport, coasteering along the cliffs of this stunning coastline. Suitable for most age groups (coasteering is not for toddlers), these guys also offer a BBQ package so that you can enjoy fresh seafood pulled from the very waters you spent your day in!
If you’d rather be on the sea than in it, then why not book one of the popular boat trips? Suitable for all the family, trips leave from St Justinians and St Martin’s Haven and traverse the beautiful coastline as well as its popular islands; Skomer, Skokholm and Ramsey, and even out to Grassholm and beyond! Dale Sailing offer trips from St Martins Haven, south of Atlantic View, whereas if you head north to St Justinians, you’ll find multiple operators including Falcon Boats who will take you to visit the seals, porpoise and thousands of sea birds who call these shores home.
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Atlantic View is your proximity to the sea! You’re a mere 300 metres’ walk away, giving you plenty of opportunities to dip your toes in the water whenever you like!
Go back in time
It’s not all about the coastline here, although it is dotted with many historical remnants of Pembrokeshire’s fascinating past. You’ll notice the undulating ramparts of several iron age forts dotted along the coast path, but if your kids prefer their castles more intact, then there are several great examples to choose from during your holidays in Pembrokeshire!
Carew Castle is a half-hour drive from Atlantic View and is quite a sight to behold. Sitting on a large tidal millpond, it’s open to the public to view its 2,000-year-old ramparts and learn its history hands-on with activities for children such as storytelling and being a knight for the day!
It would be a travesty to come to Pembrokeshire and not visit its most famous castle, the Tudor-dynasty’s home castle at Pembroke. Pembroke castle was built in around 1093, chosen for its defensive position facing the bay at Milford Haven. But it’s most well-known for being the birthplace of Henry Tudor who would later be known as Henry VII. With guided tours, exhibits and events all year round, Pembroke castle and the surrounding town has plenty to keep the whole family occupied.
For a more immersive day out, it’s worth the 40-minute drive north to the incredible Castell Henllys. This reconstructed iron age fort sits on the site of an original settlement and is its only kind in Wales. Travel back in time with interactive exhibitions and talk to Celtic inhabitants who will tell you the history of the roundhouses. Train as a warrior (complete with warpaint), watch woodmen carve or try your hand at archery – there’s so much to do, and with a café on-site, it’s all set up for a really fascinating day out.
Get back to nature
The main reason that people flock to Pembrokeshire is that it’s completely unspoiled, leaving you to have wild adventures in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.
A short drive away from your holiday accommodation you’ll find Bosherston Lily Ponds, which are located on the old Stackpole Court estate and are now managed by the National Trust. The beautiful 2-mile round walk circumnavigates the lakes, taking you out to Broadhaven South beach and back along the nature reserve. These lakes and walks were created by the Cawdor family in 1760 and are popular with locals and tourists to this day.
If your children are more into Harry Potter than toad on lily pads, then head over to Freshwater West. You may recognise it as the resting place of Dobby the House Elf – the famous scenes of the sweeping beach and its shell house were filmed here. This is a fantastic place for a windswept walk, and don’t forget to try the famous lobster roll from Café Mor, the most delicious beach food venue in Wales. It’s a must!
And while Pembrokeshire is famous for its stunning coastline, let us now forget about its sturdy spine, the Preseli Hills. Shrouded in mystery and immortalised in Welsh folklore, these hills are said to be the resting place of King Arthur and are the origin of the bluestone used to construct the outer circle of Stonehenge. For the best views across Pembrokeshire, why not take a picnic and climb Foel Eryr, its tallest peak, or the fantastically named Angel Mountain, or Carn Ingli, high above the beautiful village of Newport?
For information about family attractions such as visiting the only giraffes in Wales or one of the tallest wooden rollercoasters in Britain, please take a look at our blog “Five family attractions in Pembrokeshire”. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook too for updates and information to help make your holidays in Pembrokeshire as memorable as possible.
Spring Break in Pembrokeshire
A spring break in Pembrokeshire is a great way to experience the beauty and charm of our stunning coastal region in Wales. There is such a wide variety of attractions and activities available in our county, making it the perfect spring getaway. It’s such a popular holiday destination, particularly for those who love the great outdoors, with its stunning coastline, beaches, and countryside.
We are situated in Broad Haven, a charming seaside village in the county of Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Atlantic View offers self-catering accommodation right on the picturesque, Pembrokeshire coastline, an ideal location for beach holidays and coastal retreats.
One extremely popular activity is walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The 186-mile-long trail offers the most breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, with charming seaside villages and historic sites along the route.
Also, the local cuisine is deliciously mouthwatering! When deciding to dine out there are numerous eateries to choose from, especially in Broad Haven and Little Haven.
In Broad Haven you can choose from The Ocean Cafe, Bar & Restaurant, Sand & Stone Kitchen, Sunshine Italian, The Galleon Inn and fish & chips outlets.
Also, in Little Haven there is The Castle, Lobster & Mor, The Swan Inn and The St Brides Inn.
Our county is known for its fresh seafood, such as crab, lobster, and mackerel. There are many local delicacies to try, such as Bara Brith (a fruit loaf) and Welsh cakes.
Our self-catering properties consist of three newly renovated cottages and one newly renovated, prestigious penthouse. They all have high quality amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, spacious dining rooms, en-suite bathrooms, large glass fronted living spaces and outdoor patio areas.
Overall, a spring break in Pembrokeshire is a fantastic opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of this stunning coastal region. Whether you enjoy hiking, beachcombing, or exploring ancient sites, there is something for everyone.
Take a look around our beautiful cottages:
Easter Holidays
Broad Haven is a charming seaside village located in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. Atlantic View offers self-catering accommodation right on the picturesque, Pembrokeshire coastline, an ideal location for beach holidays and coastal retreats.
Our self-catering properties consist of three newly renovated cottages and one newly renovated, prestigious penthouse. They all have high quality amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, spacious dining rooms, en-suite bathrooms, large glass fronted living spaces and outdoor patio areas.
Easter is a great time to visit Broad Haven, as there are many things to see and do during Springtime.
Here are some ideas:
Broad Haven has some of the most stunning coastal walks in the UK, and Easter is a great time to explore them. You can enjoy the fresh sea air, the beautiful scenery and the wildlife, and maybe even spot some spring flowers.
Explore the beaches – Pembrokeshire has some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, with Broad Haven being a Blue Flag beach. Kids will love building sandcastles, exploring rock pools, and playing in the waves. Some beaches also offer Easter egg hunts and other seasonal activities.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – The National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. During the Easter holidays, there may be guided walks and family-friendly events available. Click here for further details.
Visit Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo – Folly Farm is a popular attraction for families in Pembrokeshire. It features a wide range of animals, as well as indoor and outdoor play areas. During the Easter break, there may be additional events and activities such as feeding the newborn lambs. Click here for opening hours and more details.
Take a boat trip to Skomer Island – Skomer Island is home to a large colony of puffins, as well as other seabirds and seals. During your stay with us, there may be boat trips available to the island, allowing you to get up close to the wildlife. Click here to plan your day trip and check out more details.
Explore the castles – Pembrokeshire has several historic castles to visit, including Pembroke Castle, Carew Castle, and Manorbier Castle. Kids will love exploring the ruins and learning about the history of the area.
Overall, Broad Haven and Pembrokeshire offer a great Easter holiday destination with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you and your loved ones entertained during your stay with us at Atlantic View Cottages.
Take a look around our beautiful cottages, click here
Take a trip to the Green Bridge of Wales
Pembrokeshire is well known for its rugged coastline, dotted with dramatic rock formations and dizzy cliff edges, lined with the famous Pembrokeshire coast path. No spot along one of Britain’s most staggering coastlines is as dramatic as the Green Bridge of Wales. Located in South Pembrokeshire, this stunning rock arch is comparable with similar stunning sites such as Durdle Door in Dorset. But the Green Bridge of Wales is as dramatic to get to as it is to view – find out why below!
What is the Green Bridge of Wales?
This 80-foot high expanse of limestone stretches a span of 66 feet into The Wash, a bay full of limestone stacks and craggy cliffs covered in sea birds. This spectacular viewpoint, with its almost architectural rock formations, is covered in vegetation, giving it the name the ‘Green’ bridge.
The Green Bridge is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protected Area, and a Special Area of Conservation. The area is abundant with Mesozoic fossils and rich in geological heritage. This place is so much more than a beautiful vantage point!
It’s situated on the South coast of Pembrokeshire, at Castlemartin, only around 8 miles from popular Barafundle beach and around a 40-minute scenic drive south from Atlantic View. It’s home to razorbills, guillemots, kittiwakes, fulmars, and cormorants, as well as tufts of golden gorse, lilac heathers, and light green tree mallow.
How was the Green Bridge of Wales formed?
The carboniferous rock which makes up most of the Pembrokeshire coastline has been shaped and molded by the tumultuous waves for millennia. This is what creates the fantastic formations, curved bays, sand banks, and natural harbours that make this part of the world so naturally beautiful.
The limestone which makes up this beautiful arch was once a whole piece of land that has been slowly eroded and molded into this stunning piece of natural architecture. The crashing sea has had plenty of time to create this popular view – the Carboniferous period dates back over 350 million years ago. To give you some context on just how long ago that was, that’s around the time of the dinosaurs!
Visiting the Green Bridge of Wales
This unique natural monument has a unique position on the Pembrokeshire coast…it’s on a live military tank firing range! But don’t worry, you won’t need to duck or wear bullet-proof vests. The Military of Defense closes off the road through their range to the coast when they’re training and opens it back up again in the few hours after they finish.
To check whether the range is open, call Castlemartin Range on 01646 662367.
Of course, the arch and surrounding Elegug stacks may not look like this in the near future – the erosion of the limestone is ongoing, and there are fears that the arch will give way in the next few years and succumb to the sea. In fact, during Storm Ophelia, a large chunk of the Green Bridge came crashing down! So if this beautiful spot sounds appealing, now’s the time to visit!
How to visit this wonderful spot
The postcode for the Green Bridge of Wales is SA71 5EB.
The Green Bridge of Wales is open 24 hours a day 7 days a week and is a free activity for the whole family. Park up in the large car park and follow the sign on your right pointing you in the direction of the bridge. The path takes you on an easy 6- minute stroll over a nice, flat path towards the cliffs to the bridge. There’s also a lovely viewpoint with a platform to get the best view and the perfect picture of this wonderful spot.
If you’re interested in making this a day trip to visit St Govans Chapel and other nearby attractions, take a look at our blog exploring the jewels in the crown of South Pembrokeshire. Enjoy!
Half term fun during your holidays in Pembrokeshire
Half term fun during your
holidays in Pembrokeshire
Half term is the perfect time to enjoy holidays in Pembrokeshire. It’s not as crowded as the summer months, and autumn and spring are lovely times to see this stunning coastal county in all its natural glory. October sees the end of seal season, where you’ll find inquisitive young pups bobbing around their pupping beaches, getting used to their human neighbours. And Easter is when Pembrokeshire emerges from winter with gorse and heather springing from every hedgerow and the red kites put on displays over rolling fields.
Don’t just take our word for it, though. From Atlantic View, there are plenty of fun things for all the family to do during your holidays in Pembrokeshire. From little ones to not-so-little ones, this picture-perfect area of the UK is packed with activities and adventures. Here are some for you to try out during your stay with us.
Splash out!
Think the sea might be too cold in October? Think again! It’s had all summer to roll in and out over hot sand, making October the perfect month to have a swim. On average, the sea temperature in October is 15 Celcius, which is the same as it would be in June and July. So, there are no excuses!
Why not try these water activities?
Surfing:
The wild coastline of St Bride’s Bay offers fantastic waves and draws surfers from all over the world to its tumultuous shores. Why not pop into Haven Sports in Broad Haven to hire or buy your family some surfboards and wet suits? They’ll make sure you’re well prepared for a splashing time!
If you’d rather have instructors for your wet adventures, then give Dragon Activity Guides a call. They do everything from surfing lessons on Broad Haven beach to Pembrokeshire’s original watersport, coasteering along the cliffs of this stunning coastline. Suitable for most age groups (coasteering is not for toddlers), these guys also offer a BBQ package so that you can enjoy fresh seafood pulled from the very waters you spent your day in!
If you’d rather be on the sea than in it, then why not book one of the popular boat trips? Suitable for all the family, trips leave from St Justinians and St Martin’s Haven and traverse the beautiful coastline as well as its popular islands; Skomer, Skokholm and Ramsey, and even out to Grassholm and beyond! Dale Sailing offer trips from St Martins Haven, south of Atlantic View, whereas if you head north to St Justinians, you’ll find multiple operators including Falcon Boats who will take you to visit the seals, porpoise and thousands of sea birds who call these shores home.
One of the biggest advantages of staying at Atlantic View is your proximity to the sea! You’re a mere 300 metres’ walk away, giving you plenty of opportunities to dip your toes in the water whenever you like!
Go back in time
It’s not all about the coastline here, although it is dotted with many historical remnants of Pembrokeshire’s fascinating past. You’ll notice the undulating ramparts of several iron age forts dotted along the coast path, but if your kids prefer their castles more intact, then there are several great examples to choose from during your holidays in Pembrokeshire!
Carew Castle is a half-hour drive from Atlantic View and is quite a sight to behold. Sitting on a large tidal millpond, it’s open to the public to view its 2,000-year-old ramparts and learn its history hands-on with activities for children such as storytelling and being a knight for the day!
It would be a travesty to come to Pembrokeshire and not visit its most famous castle, the Tudor-dynasty’s home castle at Pembroke. Pembroke castle was built in around 1093, chosen for its defensive position facing the bay at Milford Haven. But it’s most well-known for being the birthplace of Henry Tudor who would later be known as Henry VII. With guided tours, exhibits and events all year round, Pembroke castle and the surrounding town has plenty to keep the whole family occupied.
For a more immersive day out, it’s worth the 40-minute drive north to the incredible Castell Henllys. This reconstructed iron age fort sits on the site of an original settlement and is its only kind in Wales. Travel back in time with interactive exhibitions and talk to Celtic inhabitants who will tell you the history of the roundhouses. Train as a warrior (complete with warpaint), watch woodmen carve or try your hand at archery – there’s so much to do, and with a café on-site, it’s all set up for a really fascinating day out.
Get back to nature
The main reason that people flock to Pembrokeshire is that it’s completely unspoiled, leaving you to have wild adventures in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.
A short drive away from your holiday accommodation you’ll find Bosherston Lily Ponds, which are located on the old Stackpole Court estate and are now managed by the National Trust. The beautiful 2-mile round walk circumnavigates the lakes, taking you out to Broadhaven South beach and back along the nature reserve. These lakes and walks were created by the Cawdor family in 1760 and are popular with locals and tourists to this day.
If your children are more into Harry Potter than toad on lily pads, then head over to Freshwater West. You may recognise it as the resting place of Dobby the House Elf – the famous scenes of the sweeping beach and its shell house were filmed here. This is a fantastic place for a windswept walk, and don’t forget to try the famous lobster roll from Café Mor, the most delicious beach food venue in Wales. It’s a must!
And while Pembrokeshire is famous for its stunning coastline, let us now forget about its sturdy spine, the Preseli Hills. Shrouded in mystery and immortalised in Welsh folklore, these hills are said to be the resting place of King Arthur and are the origin of the bluestone used to construct the outer circle of Stonehenge. For the best views across Pembrokeshire, why not take a picnic and climb Foel Eryr, its tallest peak, or the fantastically named Angel Mountain, or Carn Ingli, high above the beautiful village of Newport?
For information about family attractions such as visiting the only giraffes in Wales or one of the tallest wooden rollercoasters in Britain, please take a look at our blog “Five family attractions in Pembrokeshire”. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook too for updates and information to help make your holidays in Pembrokeshire as memorable as possible.
Exploring South Pembrokeshire
Atlantic View is perfectly placed in the centre of Pembrokeshire’s dramatic coastline. With beautiful Broad Haven beach 300 metres from your front door, the coast path leading to Newgale nearby, and historic St Davids only a 20-minute drive away, South Pembrokeshire can often be forgotten. If you’ve been to visit us before, and you’ve exhausted your immediate surroundings, then a day out ‘down South’ is a great change of scene.
Going to South Pembrokeshire really is a change from the Northern territory. It’s well-known that the dialect and topography of Pembrokeshire change when you cross the Landsker line, the invisible border between the Welsh-speaking North and the English-speaking South. The rocks become a darker, clay-like red, the cliffs more sudden and dramatic, and you’ll see remnants of Flemish chimneys on vernacular buildings where the Normans brought immigrants to fight the Welsh princes.
There are some fantastic things to see if you head south from your award-winning accommodation – here are six places to explore in South Pembrokeshire.
A 22-minute drive south from Atlantic View brings you to Marloes Sands, a hidden gem protected by the National Trust. With undisturbed cliffs and surrounding wetlands, this area is a haven for wildlife, including stonechat, snipe, and peregrines. It’s also a designated marine conservation zone, and from the seal pups that thrive in the coves along this rocky red coastline, you can see why! The National Park car park is a short walk away from the sands itself – enjoy the heather-lined path to the beach.
After a walk and lungs full of sea air, why not pop to nearby Runwayskiln, an award-winning eatery by the sea, for more stunning views and even better lunches?
2. Martin’s Haven
A few minutes drive further south than Marloes and you’re in Martin’s Haven, the launchpad for exploring Pembrokeshire’s spectacular islands. From here, take Dale Sea Safaris to the Skomer where you can land and go to visit the puffins during the summer months, or out to Grassholm, the island 8 miles out to sea that is steeped in Celtic Mythology. Take in gorse-laden clifftops, caves, grey seals, porpoise, and perhaps even a minke whale on your epic sea voyage.
3. Dale
Surrounded by bucolic countryside farmed by established families on one side, and the large estuary filled with bobbing boats on the other, Dale is an unspoiled village right in the heart of South Pembrokeshire. It’s also a popular spot for sea angling, sailing, and kayaking. The safe, red pebble beach is great for little ones, and the bay is shallow, so perfect for a quick dip. Peek at Dale Castle, a private establishment since 1910, in the distance. The Griffin Inn is more than just a local pub where you can get a good selection of locally brewed ale, it’s one of the best spots for fresh fish in West Wales, and a great stop for a hearty dinner.
4. The Green Bridge of Wales
What do tanks and chapels have in common? Well, in South Pembrokeshire, you can find both on the coastline at Stack Rocks. The military base allows access to the coast when they’re not firing at the range, and you can safely go to visit the dramatic natural rock arch and surrounding stacks known as the Green Bridge of Wales. A mile or so walk away, you’ll also find St Govan’s chapel, dedicated to Govan who lived in his hermitage in this tiny sixth-century place of solitude that clings to the rock face. Count the steps down and then back up again – it’s said you’ll get a different number! This wondrous area is only a 30-minute car drive from Atlantic View.
5. Pembroke
A little closer to your home from home is the colourful town of Pembroke. This fantastic market town is steeped in history. It’s the birthplace of Henry VII and its Norman castle, perched atop a rock overlooking a lake, is a fantastic place to take the children to see what being a knight was all about. The castle is very large and hosts gigs and festivals in the summer, as well as talks and falconry displays year-round. The town itself is full of artisan cafes, traditional grocery shops and butchers, quaint inns, and boutique art galleries. You have the choice of three excellent antique shops to browse or hire paddleboats to take in the imposing view of the castle from the millpond itself.
6. Tenby
A tour of South Pembrokeshire wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Tenby. It’s the jewel in the south’s crown, with colourful houses, fantastic restaurants, a harbour full of bobbing boats, and two beaches set within the fantastic walled town. It was a popular Victorian seaside escape, and the promenade is full of grand hotels and views across to Caldey Island, home of the Cisterian monks. Take freshly cooked fish and chips along with your bucket and spade down to the seaside for a quintessentially British day on the coast.
5 reasons to holiday at Atlantic View in 2022
With the uncertainty around Covid starting to lift, along with restrictions, you might be thinking about a nice break away from your four walls this season. And what better place to take in the fresh air and a change of pace than Pembrokeshire, right? Well, we’d like to go one further – we think that Atlantic View is the best place to spend your holiday! With contemporary and cosy family accommodation with stunning views on the most gorgeous coastline, there’s so much to love about the cottages that we guarantee that you’ll be bringing your loved ones back here for years to come. Here are 5 reasons to holiday right here with us at Atlantic View.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
It’s 186 miles of some of the world’s best walking paths and attracts millions of visitors to its cairns and bridges, cliffs and bridleways. Located on the most westerly coast of Wales, within the only coastal national park in the UK, it’s known for shipwrecks, puffins, iron age forts, seals, Strumble head lighthouse, porpoise and an array of bright coastal flowers. It’s famous for the stunning vistas; the coast path is the jewel in Pembrokeshire’s crown. It rightly tops our Top 5 reasons to stay with us. And it’s right outside your door! 300 metres from Atlantic View’s front door, you can walk northward towards the stunning pebble surfing beach at Newgale, or south towards the beautiful fishing village of Little Haven – take a look at our favourite walks here.
2. Scenery
While we encourage you to get out into the wilds of West Wales and see all the incredible sights, you don’t need to leave your accommodation to see some of the most spectacular scenery in North Pembrokeshire. With glass balconies allowing for 190-degree views, or full sweeps from the Penthouse, you’re treated to the best of St Bride’s Bay from Atlantic View. Your view looks down over beautiful Broad Haven beach, and then your eye finds its way all the way across the southern flank of St Davids Head, with Ramsey island just overlapping beyond. Spot Green Scar and Black Scar, the craggy islands responsible for shipwrecks near the twinkling lights of Solva. Or just gaze out to sea, watching seabirds swoop overhead. We could list all the views that put this firmly in our top 5 reasons to stay here, but we’d rather you find out for yourselves!
3. Above the beach
We weren’t telling porkies when we said the views from Atlantic View take in the stunning stretch of golden sand below. We’re 300 metres from the beach! There’s a small hill to tackle, but it’s what allows us to be beachside AND have the incredible vistas. Broad Haven beach is a Blue Flag beach, meaning it adheres to the highest level of cleanliness and safety. It is flanked by cliffs full of rock pools and, when the tide is out, is a great expanse for making sandcastles! If you’re into watersports, then Haven Sports can take you surfing when the swell is good. Otherwise, just take the little ones for a paddle, knowing you can pop back to your home from home whenever you like to wash them down and grab some lunch before heading back to the beach. Bliss!
4. Skyscapes
Yes, the views are amazing, but have you seen the sunsets? No? Then it deserves its place in the top 5 reasons to stay at Atlantic View. Who doesn’t like a sunset over the sea? Being this far West means that they’re some of the most epic in the UK. And if that wasn’t enough, wait until the sun has gone down completely. This area of Wales is within a designated dark sky area. Due to its rural, coastal location, there is very little light pollution. So, if you’re a stargazer (and even if you’re not), we’re going to be bold and bet that you’ve never seen so many stars in your life..and maybe a UFO or two? And you can see all of this from the comfort of the sofa with a glass of something interesting in your warm accommodation.
5. We’re award-winning!
And if all the epic scenery, stunning skyscapes, bucolic beauty and coastal wonder if Pembrokeshire hasn’t sold it to you, then here’s the final of our 5 reasons to holiday with us this year: we’re award-winning! During the last two years, two of the most difficult for the tourism industry, we’ve scooped two awards. The first was the 2020 SME Enterprise Award for Best Self-Catered Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire, and the second was Best Luxury Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire and the LUXLife Hospitality Excellence Award 2021. Our four luxury properties come with high-quality amenities and all luxury and comfort for your break away. Every comfort has been thought of, from luxury bedding and Melin Tregwynt throws for a fantastic night’s sleep, to Myddfai toiletries for a touch of luxury after your coastal adventures.
Owners Dilwyn and Vel Williams say:
See you soon!
Top 4 Winter Experiences for your stay at Atlantic View
Wintertime in Pembrokeshire is phenomenal and we think that everyone should see it. From the incredible scenery to the spectacular weather. Sometimes there’s nothing better than cuddling up with your loved ones and watching a storm pass. The time of year means that Pembrokeshire is pretty empty, with all the summer tourists gone home you are free to explore wherever you want whenever you want. There are so many incredible winter experiences you need to have at Atlantic View this winter.
Beach to yourself
One of our favourite winter experiences is walking along the beach and realising you have the whole beach to yourself. There is something amazing about having a whole beach to yourself. Wrap up warm and take a wander down to Broad Haven Beach. The beach is only a five-minute walk away so it’s the perfect place to go for a quick winter stroll. Alternatively, you could drive over to Newgale Beach which takes less than twenty minutes. Bring a flask of hot chocolate with you to warm up after you stroll across the empty beach!
No one on the coast path
Another fabulous winter experience is being able to wander the coast path for hours without seeing a single soul. As the Pembrokeshire coast path sits right on the doorstep it would be a shame not to use it. Head North on the coast path for a wander over to Newgale, take in the incredible moody skies and weather-beaten coast as you go. Head South over to Martins Haven for an 11-mile hike and if you are too tired to walk back you can catch the Puffin Shuttle bus.
Hot chocolate
We all love a delicious cup of hot chocolate and it tastes even better in a cosy pub or cafe when the weather is wild outside. It is the perfect warming winter experience! An amazing cosy spot for a cup of hot chocolate is The Bishops in St Davids. It is a thirty-minute drive away from Atlantic View and has a few parking spaces around the back of the pub. The hot chocolates here are divine and the pubs ceiling is covered in fairy lights which make the room feel magical. If you’re lucky you might even get a table next to the wood-burning fire.
Sunday lunch
There’s nothing better than taking a brisk stroll along the chilly beach before going to have a delicious Sunday roast. It is one of our favourite winter experiences for sure! Head over to The Galleon Inn for an amazing roast with the most spectacular views. It takes less than five minutes to walk from Atlantic View to The Galleon Inn! You are able to see the whole of the beautiful Broad Haven beach from inside the pub. Another wonderful place to go to for Sunday lunch is The Haven Brasserie, which is less than a 15-minute drive from Atlantic View. There are so many different options available including vegan and vegetarian options. The restaurant overlooks the incredible Nolton Haven so you can enjoy your food with a spectacular view.
With all of these incredible winter experiences in Pembrokeshire make sure you book your winter stay with us, it would be a shame to miss out. Take a look at our News page on our website and Facebook page for more ideas on what to do for your autumn holiday at Atlantic View.
Autumn Wildlife Watch From Atlantic View
Pembrokeshire is home to some incredible wildlife that you have to see, and in Autumn, everything becomes just a little bit more magical. Autumn makes all of the leaves on the trees change from bright greens to warm browns, reds and oranges. This change in colour makes all the views seem completely different. There are so many things for you to spot on your Autumn wildlife watch from Atlantic View.
What Wildlife Can Be Spotted in Autumn?
Your Autumn holiday at Atlantic View is the perfect time to go on an autumn wildlife watch adventure. There are so many incredible animals and flora and fauna to be found. Try your luck in spotting travelling sea birds, Atlantic Grey seals, dolphins, porpoise and so much more.
Where Can You Spot Seals?
During the autumn Atlantic Grey seals will come ashore to give birth to their brilliant white pups. They can be spotted in many different secluded coves and beaches across the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. Take a walk along the coast path and keep your eyes peeled, you never know what you might find.
Take your binoculars and cameras with you to help you get a good look and capture the moment on your autumn wildlife watch. When watching the seals make sure you don’t get too close. If a mother seal sees you getting close to her pup she will abandon it.
Where Can You Spot Porpoise?
Porpoises can be spotted just off the coast of Pembrokeshire all year round. One of the best ways to spot porpoises is from the sea. So why not book a boat trip with Falcon Boats to kick off your autumn wildlife watch, it is just a thirty-minute drive from Atlantic View. The boat trip will also help you spot puffins, shearwaters, dolphins, whales, seals, jellyfish, and much more!
Where Can You Spot Dolphins?
Just like porpoises, dolphins can be spotted all year round but are easiest to spot during the months of June to October. They can be spotted when walking around the Pembrokeshire Coast Path but again are easier to spot out at sea. Take a Dolphin and Whale Voyage with Voyages Of Discovery for your best chance to spot any dolphins. Dolphins are something you just have to see on your autumn wildlife watch.
Can You Spot sea birds?
Another fun thing to look out for on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is sea birds. When you go out onto the Pembrokeshire Coast Path make sure you take your binoculars with you to help you get a closer look at the seabirds. There are many seabirds you can spot on the coast such as gannets, peregrine falcons, choughs, shearwaters, ravens, guillemots, razorbills and much more.
What else can you spot?
Still looking to see more incredible animals? You’re in the right place! Every year Pembrokeshire is lucky enough to attract incredible creatures. This includes orcas, blue whales, blue sharks, basking sharks, turtles, various colourful jellyfish and Risso’s dolphins.
With all of this incredible wildlife to spot this autumn, it would be a shame to miss out. Make sure you book your Autumn stay with us to go on an autumn wildlife watch of your own. Take a look at our News page on our website and Facebook page for more ideas on what to do for your autumn holiday at Atlantic View.
Top 7 reasons to stay in stunning Pembrokeshire in September
Everyone knows that Pembrokeshire in the summer is absolutely glorious but this does mean that it becomes incredibly overcrowded with tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds and make the most of your stay we recommend coming to Pembrokeshire in September.
One of our favourite things about Pembrokeshire in September is the weather. There are still a lot of gloriously sunny days – and some rainy ones too, just the same as the summer. However, the sunny days aren’t quite as hot. This is wonderful because it means you can go out for the day and not have to hunt for shade or a cool place to relax.
With the summer holidays over, families start to pack up and travel home. Leaving Pembrokeshire feeling somewhat deserted. No more crowded beaches, insanely busy restaurants or long traffic queues.
Pembrokeshire in September is full of seals and their pups. More than 1000 Atlantic Grey seals are born in secluded coves and beaches off the coast path. Take a walk along the Pembrokeshire coast path and make sure to look down at the coves below to spot Atlantic Grey Seals and their brilliant white pups.
Atlantic Grey Seals aren’t the only wildlife you can spot in Pembrokeshire in September. You can also see rare birds such as choughs, skylarks and the stonechat. These birds carefully select stretches of the coastal heathland to make their home. Many other species, such as bats may also choose to hunt and forage along the coastline.
The coastline in September is truly magical, there is an abundance of wildlife to spot. There are wildflowers that adorn the coast path in many different vivid and rich colour palates. If you are lucky enough you may even be able to spot a dolphin or porpoise pod.
Pembrokeshire in September means fewer crowds, so you’ll have plenty of space to explore small towns and villages. We love to explore and we think you will too! There are so many different places that have so much to offer.
Explore Broad Haven and Little Haven. There is just a two-minute drive from Broad Haven to Atlantic View and a two-minute walk over to Little Haven. Broad Haven has been known as a seaside resort since 1800, but little is known about the origins of the village. Broad Haven has a wonderful sandy beach that is perfect for a day out in September. Head over to Dale for a day out, it’s just a 16-minute drive from Atlantic View. It is the perfect place to explore, with a few local shops and a cafe or two and a pub as well, what more do you need?
The temperature of the sea in Pembrokeshire in September is perfect for some wild swimming. Before the sea temperature plummets for the winter give wild swimming a go. There are many health benefits of wild swimming too! Wild swimming can help to boost your immune system and brain power, improve circulation, reduce body pain and inflammation and much more. The rush of adrenaline and the euphoria you feel after a cold water swim is incredible and will keep you coming back for more.
Pembrokeshire in September is one of the best months of the year to take part in watersports. Whether you want to try coasteering, surfing or kayaking, it is a perfect time. This is a combination of a few different things, the weather is still lovely and warm, the sea temperature is perfect and, the crowds have all gone home.
Want to explore the coastline up close? Coasteering is an amazing activity that will allow you to take a look at the Pembrokeshire coastline. Celtic Quest Coasteering, are a coasteering company that operates from Abereiddy which is a 35-minute drive from Atlantic View. The views around Abereiddy and the Blue Lagoon are spectacular and Celtic Quest Coasteering will help you explore them. Celtic Quest will ensure that each coasteering adventure is tailored to the groups abilities. The activities on the coasteering adventure are cliff jumping, rock hopping, scramble climbing and much more!
For more activities for your stay in Pembrokeshire in September follow our Facebook page, where we post regular updates, ideas and activities. You can also find some new ideas by taking a look at our blog page.
Why Atlantic View keep being award-winning holiday cottages
No matter what people tell you, running a business is difficult. It is even scarier when it is a new business venture that you’ve never tried your hand at before. There are so many things that you have to learn and practice doing. And that is just what Dilwyn and Vel Williams have done – working incredibly hard since they purchased the old bed and breakfast that was Atlantic View to create their award-winning, must-stay cottages.
They found the property when taking aerial pictures on a helicopter ride and immediately fell in love with the plot and its surrounding area. In 2014, work started on the dilapidated buildings to turn them into the high-quality, award-winning holiday cottages that they are today.
How did Atlantic View become award-winning holiday cottages?
Transforming the run-down building overlooking the magnificent Broad Haven beach was hard work, a challenge that the Williams family saw as a fantastic opportunity. The building had to be knocked down as it was in a state of disrepair, which allowed Dilwyn and Vel to design the award-winning holiday cottages to be exactly how they wanted them. Choosing the layout of each property was crucial to making sure that they made sense and that there was plenty of space for everything that they wanted in the award-winning holiday cottages.
The Sandpiper, The Penthouse, Kittiwake and Oystercatcher cottages have all been designed, built, and decorated to an incredibly high standard. The owners have paid attention to every little detail, allowing them to create popular luxurious cottages. All cottages have Melin Tregwynt blankets, extra beach towels, wonderful Myddfai toiletries, and locally sourced breakfast items. These small details make all the difference when staying in award-winning holiday cottages.
All of the award-winning holiday cottages are always immaculate too, and our guests often say they are amazed at how clean and well kept the properties are. With a great deal of time and effort going into the upkeep of the properties, the most important thing is ensuring that the cleanliness of the properties is always kept at an incredibly high standard.
What you can do on your luxury holiday at Atlantic View?
The properties overlook the undeniably beautiful Broad Haven Beach, which is only a hop, skip, and a jump away. It only takes five minutes to walk down to the beach, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space or getting a drink – you’re 300 metres from your accommodation!
Atlantic View also has the Pembrokeshire Coast Path right on its doorstep. Exploring the rugged Welsh coastline couldn’t be easier with this fabulous, famous footpath right outside. Want to find a different beach? Little Haven beach is just an eight-minute walk on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. There is a ramp at Little Haven Beach so it is both wheelchair and pushchair accessible.
Are these luxury cottages family-friendly?
The cottages are perfect for families; Kittiwake and Oystercatcher can even be booked together to create Puffin for larger groups. No matter how big or small your family is, you can all come and stay at Atlantic View’s award-winning holiday cottages. With so many beautiful beaches just minutes’ walk away from the cottages, there’s plenty for the kids to do – crabbing, paddling, watching the wildlife and enjoying being free in the fresh air. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is just outside the cottages and offers many new and exciting adventures for the whole family.
Winning another award
Atlantic View has now won another award for Best Luxury Holiday Cottages in Pembrokeshire and LUXlife Hospitality Excellence Award 2021. But that’s enough of us telling you that you’ll have a fantastic time here…come and see for yourselves!