Run to the Preseli Hills, Pembrokeshire

There's more to Pembrokeshire than the coast

Although famed for its spectacular coastline, Pembrokeshire is also home to the Preseli Hills, an ancient and magical landscape which was the source of the famous bluestones that form the inner ring of Stonehenge. This landscape is perfect for finding a peaceful escape from the rigours of modern life.

The Preseli Hills in northern Pembrokeshire form an imposing backdrop rising out of the wild landscape to a height of 536m. The area surrounding the hills is made up of mostly wild moorland, grassland and heath, it is a walkers’ paradise with a diverse ecosystem and is home to a wide range of plants and wildlife.

The hills span some 13 miles (21km) from Carn Ingli in Newport in the west to Frenni in Crymych in the east, offering you a complete contrast to the usual coastal path walks. There are a large number of walks and tracks, allowing you discover many different aspects of the hills. If you are keen on exploring them in a competitive way, why not join the annual cross country events of Ras Beca and the Preseli Beast?

The Preseli Hills also feature in traditional Welsh folklore. ‘The Mabinogion’ is a collection of stories which are thought to be at least 700 years old and one of these tales tells the legend of Cerrig Meibion Arthur (“The Stones Of The Sons Of Arthur”). According to the tale, the site where the stones are situated, below Foel Cwmcerwyn which is the highest point, marks the place where the sons of King Arthur were slain by a wild boar from Ireland, Twrch Trwyth. Arthur himself is said to lie further afield at Bedd Arthur, also known as “Arthur’s Grave”.

It’s definitely walking boot country so don your boots and venture out on one of the many well-trodden trails. One of the most popular walks is the short walk approximately 1.2 miles from the car park to the top of Foel Eryr, the westernmost summit of the Preseli Ridge. At the summit, you can enjoy 360 degree panoramic views of the wild countryside and out to the sea beyond.

For the more enthusiastic walkers, why not set out on the 8 mile “Golden Road” marked along the route with “Iron Age” relics and some spectacular views over this part of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park? The walk is generally fairly easy but steepens towards the summit where you reach the hill fort of Foel Drygarn at 363 meters.

Once you have worked up an appetite, stop off at The Tafarn Sinc pub, located in the village of Rosebush, where you will find a warm Welsh welcome,  a cosy ambience of yesteryear and delicious home-cooked food from hearty traditional Welsh cawl, to juicy steaks, all sourced locally.

Once explored the Preseli Hills are sure to become a firm favourite for those who love to go off the beaten track.