Locals want to keep this secret waterfall beach hidden but the adventure to reach it is unforgettable

South Wales is blessed with plenty of beaches. From wide stretches of golden sand to rocky bays and hidden coves, there are endless spots to paddle in the water or wander along coastal paths.

Although many people head straight for famous destinations like Rhossili or Tenby, there are smaller, more secluded coves that deserve just as much attention.

This place is one such hidden cove on the stunning Llyn Peninsula that’s well worth a visit.

Photo © Chris Andrews (cc-by-sa/2.0)

Managed by the National Trust, this peaceful beach in North Wales is far enough off the tourist trail to stay quiet, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.

Surprisingly, Porth Ysgo was once a hive of activity. Over a century ago, a large jetty stood here, used to load steamships with manganese ore.

Between 1840 and 1945, more than 195,000 tonnes were taken from the nearby Benallt mine near Rhiw.

As mining grew, two jetties were built along the coast. The one at Porth Ysgo was linked to the quarry by a small railway. The jetty was closed in 1927 and the mines stopped operating in 1945. Today, the beach is known instead for fishing and incredible sunsets.

Photo © Trevor Rickard (cc-by-sa/2.0)

It has also picked up awards. Back in 2021, The Sunday Times named Porth Ysgo one of the best beaches in Wales, with travel writer Chris Haslam praising its raw beauty and untouched landscape.

He wrote that “it is perhaps naive to hope that Porth Ysgo, on the south of the peninsula, can escape a similar fate” to busier beaches nearby, but added that its magical atmosphere and folklore links make it hard to spoil.

Getting there isn’t simple. It’s described as “a steep 15-minute downhill trek followed by a climb down a rickety wooden stairway”, but that’s all part of the adventure.

Take on the 150 steps and you’ll find yourself at a quiet, pebbly cove that reveals a stretch of golden sand when the tide is out.

Remember - LeaveNoTrace!

As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!

Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.

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