The Welsh coast is a geological wonder, filled with towering cliffs and rocky formations. Much of the coastline was formed due to events in the ice age, and the gradual erosion from the sea has created towers of rocks and all kinds of interesting geological shapes. As always, the sea is the most powerful force in shaping the way our planet looks.

This aerial view truly showcases how beautiful the Welsh coast is, with layers of rock blending upward into moss-covered cliffs. Seabirds soar overhead, getting incredible views like this every day.

Geologists often come to Wales to study the rock formations, many of which were formed during the Jurassic period. But even to the layman, these formations with their visible layers are beautiful and offer a glimpse into the earth’s past.

The path is also flanked by beautiful farmland, where sheep farmers keep their herds at the foot of misty mountains.

Here, it appears a chunk of rock has fallen away, likely after centuries of being battered by the huge waves of the Celtic Sea.

Rock pillars stand up like soldiers in areas where the shores have otherwise been worn away. While there aren’t many trees able to withstand the powerful weather next to the ocean, grasses and mosses here are lush and green.

There aren’t just domesticated farm animals along the coast. Wild ponies can actually be found in several areas of mountain grasslands, having lived there for four centuries after Henry VIII set them loose when they were deemed unable to carry a knight in armour. After 400 years of living in the mountainous region of Snowdonia, the ponies have been deemed by scientists to be a genetically unique population.

Welsh landscapes are beautiful but often stark, with many incredible mountain ranges. These harsh but breathtaking landscapes are great places to see waterfalls, birds, and — if you stay after dark — dazzling constellations.

n this coastline, you can literally see the march of history in the layers of rock that have been worn away in stages by the aquamarine sea. In thousands of years, this place will look remarkably different, thanks to the twin forces of the wind and the sea.

Wales’ coast is a rugged reminder of the power of the sea

By Jessica Faulds

Imagine a footpath that follows the coastal border of an entire country, and you’ll have a basic understanding of the Wales Coast Path, an uninterrupted 1,400-kilometre walking path that follows the beautiful and wild coastline of Wales.

Wales sometimes gets overshadowed by the other countries in the United Kingdom, but it is a trailblazer (literally!) in its own right. The first country to create a dedicated footpath next to most of its coastline, it boasts views that are breathtakingly unique. And while there are plenty of rugged, rocky seascapes to be seen from the Welsh coast, the trail also brings walkers past lighthouses, through quaint seaside towns, and along bucolic country scenes.

If you wish you could walk the trail but don’t have time for a trip to Wales, we’ve got you covered with a gallery of views from the coast that are the next-best thing to being there. So come on a virtual hike along one of the most acclaimed footpaths on earth — you won’t even have to put on your shoes.