Barafundle Bay Ranks Top 5 Europe
Barafundle Bay in Pembrokeshire, South Wales, has been ranked among the top five beaches in Europe. Accessible only by foot, this secluded stretch of sand offers tranquility and natural beauty far from the usual tourist throngs, making it a hidden gem for those seeking pristine coastal experiences.
This recent accolade from Time Out, placing Barafundle Bay as the fifth best beach in Europe, is the latest in a long line of recognitions. The bay has previously been included in lists of the top 12 beaches in the world and was named the "best beach in Britain" by The Good Holiday Guide. In 2019, it received both the Seaside and Green Coast awards for its high standards of cleanliness and beautiful natural environment. Part of the National Trust's Stackpole Estate, the beach was once the private seaside retreat of the aristocratic Cawdor family who owned the grand, now-demolished, Stackpole Court. The stone wall and steps that visitors use today were originally built in the 18th century to provide easier access for the family and their guests. The bay's pristine condition is largely due to its isolation; there is no direct road access. To reach the sand, visitors must park at the National Trust car park at Stackpole Quay and walk half a mile along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path. This lack of direct access has helped to preserve its natural state, free from commercial development. The distinctive landscape of Barafundle Bay is characterized by its golden sands flanked by limestone cliffs. Geologically, the area marks a transition from the Carboniferous Limestone of the Castlemartin Peninsula to the Old Red Sandstone of the Devonian period. This combination creates the bay's sheltered, east-facing aspect, which often results in calm waters. Backed by extensive sand dunes and woodland, the area is a haven for wildlife. The wider Stackpole Estate, a Grade 1 listed historic landscape, is home to otters, bats, and various seabirds. The dunes and forest floor come alive with garlic and bluebells in the springtime. The increased recognition has led to a significant rise in visitor numbers, with over 30,000 more people visiting in recent years. This popularity prompted the National Trust to launch a project encouraging exploration of other nearby beaches, like Broad Haven South, to help conserve Barafundle's delicate footpaths and dunes.
