Saundersfoot Travel Guide

Read our travel guide to Saundersfoot, Wales, and discover the best natural attractions, things to do, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot is a charming seaside town located in Pembrokeshire, South Wales. The picturesque coastal village, famous for its golden sandy beaches, beautiful harbour, and colourful boats, offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing holiday.

Saundersfoot is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the beauty of Wales, with the many natural attractions and activities available for all ages. This travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to Saundersfoot, exploring the must-see attractions and enjoying the local culture and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Saundersfoot

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Saundersfoot is a town rich in history and culture, with several fascinating museums and historical sites to explore. Among the most popular is the Saundersfoot Maritime Museum, which showcases the town’s maritime history through hands-on exhibits and displays.

Another important historical landmark is the St. Issell’s Church, a Grade II listed building, which dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the historical architecture and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Natural Attractions of Saundersfoot: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Saundersfoot is an ideal base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area. One of the most popular natural attractions is the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which offers breathtaking sea views and a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Other must-see attractions include the scenic Saundersfoot Bay, the beautiful Glen Beach, and the picturesque Monkstone Point. For those looking for an outdoor adventure, there are plenty of activities available, including surfing, kayaking, and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with several outstanding routes to explore. One of the most popular is the Saundersfoot to Tenby Coastal Path, which offers stunning views of the Pembrokeshire coast and takes in several beautiful beaches.

Other popular routes include the Saundersfoot Circular Walk, the Monkstone Point Trail, and the Saundersfoot to Wiseman’s Bridge Path. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there’s a route for you to enjoy in Saundersfoot.

Best Things to Do in Saundersfoot: Activities and Tours

Saundersfoot offers a range of activities and tours to entertain visitors of all ages. For those seeking adventure, there’s surfing, kayaking, and coasteering, while those looking for relaxation can enjoy a spa day or a round of golf.

Other popular activities include boat tours of the Pembrokeshire coast, a visit to the picturesque Tenby Harbour, and a trip to the Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, a great day out for the family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saundersfoot

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Saundersfoot:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Saundersfoot and explore the town
  • Day 2: Visit the Saundersfoot Maritime Museum and St. Issell’s Church
  • Day 3: Take a hike or bike ride along the Saundersfoot to Tenby Coastal Path
  • Day 4: Enjoy a day of adventure with surfing, kayaking, or coasteering
  • Day 5: Take a boat tour of the Pembrokeshire coast
  • Day 6: Relax and unwind with a spa day or a round of golf
  • Day 7: Visit the Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

Food and Drink Scene of Saundersfoot

Must-Try Dishes

Saundersfoot offers a wide range of culinary delights for foodies to enjoy. Fresh seafood is a speciality, with local restaurants often serving up delicious fish dishes such as seafood chowder, fish and chips, and crab cakes.

Other must-try dishes include Welsh rarebit, a traditional Welsh cheese dish, and bara brith, a Welsh fruit cake. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on a taste of Welsh fudge or Welsh cakes.

Local Beverages

No trip to Saundersfoot is complete without tasting some of the local beverages. Welsh ale and cider are popular choices, with several breweries in the surrounding area producing high-quality tipples.

If you’re a fan of wine, be sure to try a glass of Welsh wine, produced in the nearby Welsh vineyards. Finally, no trip to Wales would be complete without sampling some Welsh whisky - try a dram of Penderyn, Wales’ only whisky distillery.

Where to Stay in Saundersfoot: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Saundersfoot offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a charming bed and breakfast, or a cosy self-catering cottage, there’s a place for you to call home during your stay.

Some of the most popular hotels in Saundersfoot include St. Brides Spa Hotel, The Gower Hotel, and The Grove, Narberth. For those on a budget, consider staying at the YHA Manorbier Hostel or the Clarence House Hotel.

What to Buy in Saundersfoot: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Saundersfoot offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products for visitors to take home as a reminder of their trip. Some of the most popular items include handcrafted Welsh pottery, traditional Welsh blankets, and locally produced honey.

Other great souvenirs include Welsh whisky, locally produced cheese, and Welsh wool products such as scarves and hats. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss out on Welsh fudge or traditional Welsh cakes.

Local Culture and Customs of Saundersfoot

Wales has a rich and unique culture, and Saundersfoot is no exception. Visitors can experience Welsh language, music, and dance, as well as traditional customs and celebrations such as St. David’s Day and Eisteddfodau.

More than anything, though, Saundersfoot is known for its friendly and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation and learn about the local culture firsthand.

Best Time to Visit Saundersfoot

The best time to visit Saundersfoot is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is a beautiful destination all year round, with plenty to see and do in every season.

Visitors during the autumn months can enjoy the changing colours of the surrounding countryside, while winter visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s festive atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saundersfoot

Do:

  • Take advantage of the town’s natural beauty by exploring the surrounding countryside
  • Try some of the local seafood, wine, whisky, or cheese
  • Learn about Welsh culture and customs by speaking to locals or attending festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and etiquette - be respectful of Welsh language and traditions
  • Leave litter on the beach, roadsides, or countryside
  • Swim in areas where the current is too strong or dangerous

Safety and Health

Safety in Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot is generally a safe town for visitors, but it’s always important to take safety precautions. Visitors should be careful of the tide and currents when swimming in the sea and be cautious when exploring countryside paths or hiking trails.

Health in Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot has several medical facilities, including a medical centre and a pharmacy. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance before visiting and take necessary precautions regarding any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Saundersfoot: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Saundersfoot

The nearest airports to Saundersfoot are Cardiff Airport, Bristol Airport, and Liverpool John Lennon Airport, all of which are approximately a two-hour drive away.

Bus Stations Near Saundersfoot

The nearest bus stations to Saundersfoot are in Tenby and Pembroke Dock, both of which are well-served by regional and local buses.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Saundersfoot by train, with the nearest station being Saundersfoot Railway Station, which is situated on the mainline between Cardiff and Pembroke.

How to Get Around in Saundersfoot

Saundersfoot is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance. For those looking to explore further afield, there are several local bus services and taxi companies available.

Hiring a bike or car is also an excellent way to explore the nearby countryside and coastline, and several local rental companies offer affordable rates.

Where to Go Next from Saundersfoot: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Saundersfoot is a great base for exploring the wider Pembrokeshire region. Some of the most popular nearby destinations include:

  • Tenby, a historic walled town with a picturesque harbour
  • Pembroke Castle, one of Wales’ most impressive castles
  • St. Davids, a charming cathedral city and the smallest city in Britain
  • The Blue Lagoon, a former quarry turned adventure park

Conclusion

Saundersfoot is a destination full of charm, natural beauty, and friendly hospitality. Whether you’re looking to explore the local culture, take part in outdoor activities, or simply relax on the beach, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this idyllic Welsh town.