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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
National
Rebecca Koncienzcy & Paige Oldfield

The 'rare and hidden' beach with secret coves where parking isn't a problem

Tucked away in North Wales is a stunning hidden beach that visitors always return to because of its golden sands and secret caves.

Black Rock Sands in Gwynedd might be more than a two-hour drive away but many go for a day out by the sea while others stop over in the nearby caravan parks and camping sites.

In the shadow of Snowdonia with the River Dwyryd to the left and dramatic cliff edges to the right, the secluded beach looks out over Cardigan Bay.

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Those who reviewed the two-mile sandy escape on TripAdvisor said people always come back to Black Rock and others pointed to how rare it is to have a beach you can drive on, making it extremely accessible for people.

And it is a novelty that is welcomed with vehicles being able to park from 9am in the morning and until 8pm when the restriction barriers close, the Liverpool Echo reports.

The sand dunes and low tide caves, or pirate coves for the adventurers among us, have been declared a 'site of special scientific interest' due to the natural history of the area and is perfect for families to explore.

It is also popular with dog walkers who also enjoy the open stretch of sand but there are time restrictions.

It is also part of the picturesque four mile seaside walk that starts in the tiny village of Borth-y-Gest and snakes around the coast to Black Rock. Or you can also start out at Black Rock where you can take in the breathtaking sea views, as far as Ireland on a clear day, before heading inland towards Porthmadog Golf Club.

From there, this section of the walk takes you onto higher ground with stunning views of Snowdonia and Tremadog Bay. Then head back towards the coast to reach the picturesque harbour of Borth-Y-Gest village which has its own sea front and pastel painted buildings facing the sea.

For the final leg of the walk you’ll head towards Porthmadog, the historic Victorian town bustling with cafes and pubs to rest your feet after breathing in all that sea air.

Y Llong (The Ship) and The Australia are two pubs that are popular with both tourists and locals. Both venues serve traditional pub grub as well as a selection of drinks to help you rehydrate after a refreshing stroll.

With unrestricted views of the coastline, toilets, a shop and it is a stone's throw from the tiny town of Porthmadog and the Italian-inspired town of Portmeirion, both filled with independent shops and restaurants, it is a great stop for a bank holiday break.

Find more information about Black Rock Sands here.

Be aware of the following dangers on Black Rock Sands beach. Look for the red signs which contain specific information for that part of the beach, including when and where dogs are allowed.

  • Beware of strong currents

  • Beware of powered craft

  • Beware of manoeuvring vehicles on the beach

  • Beware of tidal entrapment in caves and under cliffs

  • Take care with inflatables in strong winds

  • Fast flowing tide, beware of being trapped on the sandbanks by the incoming tide

  • Steep shelving beach, beware of deep water in harbour channel

  • Beware of power kites

  • Do not swim in the launching area

  • Do not dig or burrow in sand dunes

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