The first time I stayed in the UK’s tiniest city, I had absolutely no idea it was such and was left completely surprised with just how much peace this tucked-away staycation had to offer.
Both times that I have visited St David’s I have left feeling refreshed, having spent a few days completely immersed in nature at one of their many campsites by the coast.
It’s a small city, which stands as more of a charming village, sits comfortably on the coast of Pembrokeshire, Wales, and has everything you could need for an outdoorsy weekend.
St David’s is a cathedral city named after Wales’s patron saint, Saint David, and also acts as his final resting place. The grand cathedral is what gives the otherwise unassuming spot a city status, and yet I’ve found on both occasions that it is yet to be swarmed by British holidaymakers.
The coastal treasure trove is home to a number of beaches and swim spots, but one that took me by surprise was just a short walk away from the town’s main surf spot, Whitesands Beach.
While the wide strip of sand is perfect for groups wanting a dip in the cold sea, to build sandcastles or even take part in some watersports, there’s a beach offering a slightly more tranquil experience, tucked within the cliffside.
We chose to venture a little bit deeper into Pembrokeshire’s stunning landscape with the help of a friend who is most clued up on the area and reached a concealed gem called Porthmelgan Beach. Just a 20-minute idle stroll away from St Davids’ family-favourite beach, you’re met with sands as equally soft but a considerably quieter spot.
Of course, this cove offers no parking or any kind of facility but does boast rocky landscapes and water that is both calming and clear.
So, if like me, you prefer to read on the beach away from the cries and shouts of young children and bigger groups, this will be your slice of paradise in Pembrokeshire.
The area is not short of walks through the Welsh peaks, or for those who prefer the sea air, the cliffside pathways can take you far and wide.
In fact, one of my favourite things about camping in St David’s is waking up to the towering hills that sat in front of us, dare I say the greenest of grass I’ve ever seen.
In typical seaside town fashion, St David’s boasts numerous ice cream parlours and a good handful of independent shops for those days you want nothing more than some hearty pub grub and a wonder through the village. So when you’ve had your fill of coastal walks, there’s also a few traditional pubs calling your name.
Our personal favourite stay was The Bishops, smack bang in the middle of St David’s, with live music nights, cosy corners and tasty food for those cloudy days.
Not to mention, they boast a charming beer garden for a pint in the sunshine – but with their only being a handful of pubs, its always best to book ahead.