Posts Tagged ‘Pembrokeshire’

The Preseli Hills have great walking trails, history and wildlife

Filed under Feature Walks by Heidi on 13-07-2010

Pembrokeshire’s Preseli Hills offer ramblers the ideal destination for a walking holiday at all times and for all ages thanks to its vast array of activity options 12 months a year.

According to travelbite.co.uk, the region can be enjoyed by walkers of any age group and ability thanks to the fact that it has trails and peaks ranging from difficulties that would challenge the most experienced rambler or fellwalker to more gentle options that can be easily negotiated by children and adults alike.

The range of mountains and hills form part of the northern area of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and rise to a point of 1758 feet above sea level at their highest point, which is known as Foel Cwmcerwyn, information-britain.org notes.

They represent one of Britain’s most historically significant mountain ranges as they were a major contributor to Wales’ slate industry and were extensively quarried at the time when the nation was at its industrial peak.

Remnants of the area’s slate industry can still be found throughout the region, with old quarries found regularly across the landscape. Meanwhile, Pembrokeshire offers a nod to its past by maintaining a slate workshop in the Llangolman region which still manufactures craft items using the material that, along with industries such as coal, formed the backbone of the Welsh economy in years gone by.

In fact, the Preseli Hills have a major claim to fame in so far as the bluestone rocks form the world-renowned Wiltshire landmark Stonehenge are known to originate from there.

Today, the hills are a magnificent sight and offer a genuine taste of true British scenic beauty.

Travelbite.co.uk goes on to state that, on a clear day, views from the summit of the peaks stretch as far as the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland, as well as Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and the Bristol Channel.

If it’s breathtaking sights you’re after, the Preseli Hills could be your dream walking destination.

Other must-see parts of the area include the several burial cairns and earthworks in the Hills that date back to the Iron Age, as well as the many standing stones and forts.

The region is laced with history as well as walking charm, making it a very good option for families who enjoy both a relaxing stroll as well as sampling interesting facts and items that are thought to be from as far back as prehistoric times.

Also, the Golden Road ancient path – which was originally forged as a route for tradesmen when dangerous animals still roamed the hills – is well worth a visit as it is thought that the Carn Menyn tor nearby is the source of the aforementioned Stonehenge material.

On top of the fantastic walking options and history, the Preseli Hills can also be said to be one of the country’s primary hotspots for spotting wildlife – particularly in the winter season.

Birds such as sparrow hawks, buzzards, kestrels and skylarks are regular visitors to the region, meaning that walkers might be advised to take a pair of binoculars with them to the Hills.