A walk around Marloes Peninsula including Deer Park

An easy 5 mile walk with spectacular coastal views, dramatic rock formations, very few people, the odd rabbit, birds and some wild ponies.

Park in the Marloes Sands car park (National Trust £4) and pick up a map (included in the parking fee).

The route takes you through the site of an iron age fort but there is little evidence to see. Look out for Gateholm, Skokholm, Skomer, Midland and Grassholm Islands. Grassholm is white with gannets in the summer.

The little cottage which marks the fork in the path to Deer Park will surely leave you fantasizing about living in such an isolated and wildly beautiful location. Do summon the courage to gaze down into the treacherous waters of Jack Sound and across to St Bride's Bay. Clamber up to the Coastguards Hut to enjoy panoramic views of this glorious rugged coastline. If you happen to have an apple in your pocket you may be able to make a friend of one of the otherwise shy wild ponies roaming around the grass land.

The little stony cove of Martin's Haven is the embarkation point for boat trips out to Skomer, from here the path is sandwiched between St Bride's Bay and West Hook Farm. The final part of the walk takes you across three fields and then a short distance along flower filled lanes back to the car park.

Marloes village is very close by where you can take rest and refreshment in the Lobster Pot pub or the award winning Clockhouse Cafe/Bar. If you have enough energy left Marloes Sands is another scramble across a couple of fields and down to the shore but well worth a visit. The sweep of golden sand framed by jagged rocks and clear sea will invigorate you.

Anne I