Rhoscolyn combines striking coastal formations, wildlife watching and sites associated with St Gwenfaen. If you’re looking for a holiday rental in Rhoscolyn, you can plan beyond simply staying at the beach: the coast offers geological features and walking routes, while the church and well house provide a historical perspective.

Cliffs, sea arch and beach

The Glannau Rhoscolyn SSSI extends for about 6.5 kilometres along the west coast of Holy Island in Anglesey. The coastal outcrops around Rhoscolyn show some of the best-known examples of polyphase folding in southern England and Wales. Polyphase means that folding occurred in several phases. The geology therefore offers a distinct perspective on the coastal landscape.

Bwa Du is a natural arch formed by the sea out of the cliffs at Rhoscolyn. Rhoscolyn Beacon is a tall navigational marker built to warn ships about dangerous rocks. Borthwen has golden sand and is sheltered. The beach therefore provides a contrast to the rocky coastal formations.

Heathland and scrub on the cliffs provide habitat for stonechats, whitethroats and meadow pipits. Grey seals are often spotted around Rhoscolyn; sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.

Walks and activities

The cliff path at Rhoscolyn runs around the headland. The Rhoscolyn circular walk passes St Gwenfaen’s Well. The coast at Rhoscolyn is also accessible from Trearddur Bay via the Anglesey Coastal Path. Path conditions can change; check the latest information before setting out. The difference lies in the route: the cliff path goes around the headland, while the circular walk passes the well house.

B-Active offers kayaking in Rhoscolyn, including taster sessions, courses and guided coastal kayaking tours. The offering may change; check current availability before making plans based on it.

St Gwenfaen and the history of the area

St Gwenfaen founded a church with cloisters in Rhoscolyn in 630. Saint Gwenfaen’s Church stands on elevated ground and offers views of the mountains of Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula. Visibility depends on the weather.

The well house known as St Gwenfaen’s Well is probably medieval. It lies in a hollow above Porth Gwalch Bay in the cliffs of Holy Island. The well house contains a chamber with a basin or bath, accessible by steps; physical access may vary.

Ffynnon Gwenfaen is a medieval or post-medieval holy spring on the cliff between the boundary wall of a farm and the sea. Together with the church and well house, it is one of the places where Rhoscolyn’s coastal landscape connects with its history associated with St Gwenfaen.

Discover more destinations: Llanddona, Moelfre, Pentraeth, Amlwch, Bodorgan, Dwyran, Llandegfan, Llanerchymedd.

For the wider travel guide: Isle Of Anglesey.