South Stack Coastal Walk, Holyhead

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Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 7.53 km (4.68 miles)

Approx. duration: 2:30-3:30hrs

Parking: Paid (Google Maps)

Dogs: Yes – On lead near livestock

From Perthi Holiday Cottages: 1 hour and 10 minutes drive

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This scenic circular walk explores the rugged coastline around South Stack and the historic landscape of Breakwater Country Park, combining dramatic cliffs, wildlife-rich headlands, and Anglesey’s industrial past.

You’re in the right place if you’re looking for a moderately challenging coastal walk with uneven ground, steady climbs, and exposed clifftop paths. The route is well worth the effort, but best suited to confident walkers in good conditions.

The walk follows the cliffs near South Stack, where sweeping views open out across the Irish Sea and towards the iconic lighthouse perched on its rocky islet. This stretch is rich in natural drama, with sheer rock faces, crashing waves, and constantly changing light.

The area is renowned for birdlife, particularly around the South Stack reserve where seabird colonies nest on the cliffs. With patience and a bit of luck, walkers may spot puffins, choughs, or peregrine falcons soaring above the headland — and dolphins are occasionally seen offshore from the higher clifftop sections.

A detour can be made to the summit of Holyhead Mountain, the highest point on Anglesey, offering wide 360-degree views across the island and out to sea. This optional addition adds height and perspective without turning the walk into a full mountain hike.

The route loops through Breakwater Country Park, a striking landscape shaped by quarrying during the construction of Holyhead’s great breakwater. There’s a simple, welcoming café in the park — a good place to stop before or after the walk. The tall brick chimney, old storage buildings and interpretation panels make this one of the more interesting industrial heritage sections on any walk in North Wales.

This circular hike blends wildlife, history, and dramatic coastal scenery, making it a rewarding outing for walkers, nature lovers, and photographers exploring this wilder corner of Anglesey.

“The café at Breakwater Country Park is worth knowing about — nothing fancy but exactly what you want after a coastal walk. The birdwatching around South Stack is some of the best in Wales, and keep an eye out to sea from the higher sections because dolphins do appear out there. One of those walks where the wildlife can make the whole day.” — Delyth, Perthi Holiday Cottages

Our 17th-century cottages sit just above Beddgelert, with walking routes straight from the door.

Step-by-Step Walk Guide

Numbered steps with photos to help you follow the route.

Free parking is available at the end of the road just before the steps down to South Stack Lighthouse, though spaces are limited, so it’s best to arrive early or visit on a weekday. Alternatively, there is paid parking at the RSPB café slightly further up the road. To start the walk, take the path to the right of the lighthouse steps (pictured), which climbs gently along the cliffs towards North Stack and Holyhead Mountain.
There are many paths that take you through the heather towards Holyhead Mountain in the distance (pictured). Take the most trodden and direct route.
Skirt to the left of Holyhead Mountain taking the stone steps upwards (pictured). Follow the coastal path way markers. There are paths to the left that take you to the top of Holyhead Mountain if you fancy a little detour.
The path then descends sharply towards North Stack. Once you reach the plateau below, continue straight ahead, then turn left to follow the main path down towards North Stack itself. Alternatively, you can take a narrower path that skirts left around the slope — but be aware that this route is more exposed and not ideal if you're uncomfortable with heights.
From North Stack (pictured), don’t retrace your steps back up the hill. Instead, take the smaller path to the right of the house (when facing it directly). This path leads you south eastwards, with views of Holyhead town.
This path continues along the coast, eventually bringing you to Breakwater Country Park, easily identified by its tall brick chimney. Here, you can stop for a break at the on-site café, or continue the walk by following the path around the small lake.
At the far end of the small lake, cross the main road and go through the kissing gate (pictured) onto the path that will lead you back toward your starting point. Follow the path upwards past the old mine.
You will pass a few houses. Then take the first turning up right (pictured). From here carry on upwards passing a few more houses.
The path leads you between old stone walls and along tracks winding through the heather, with Holyhead Mountain now to your right.
The path ascends gently towards a small plateau, with Holyhead Mountain on your right. From here, we took a left towards a house with a large green field in the distance. You skirt around the house, keeping it on your left, before climbing back up to reconnect with the main path where you began your walk. Alternatively, a slightly easier option is to descend below Holyhead Mountain and then follow the westerly path back toward your starting point.
This path joins a wider main track, which eventually becomes a concrete road (pictured) leading downhill directly back to your car.

17th-Century Cottages in Beddgelert

Rated 4.98 on Airbnb from over 300 guest reviews

Ty Hebog historical barn conversion exterior at Perthi in Beddgelert Cosy log burner interior at Ty Hebog cottage Luxury king size bedroom with original historic character at Ty Felin water mill

Stay in a converted water mill, a historic barn or a mountain lodge on Delyth’s family farm above the village — with wide Eryri views and walking routes from the door.