Discover coastal living

Published August 30 2017
5 minute read

From award winning beaches, to rugged shore lines, our coastline offers a dramatic landscape full of activity. Those residing close to our shores are privileged to live in beautiful areas and wonderful communities. During the summer we all long for days at the beach taking in the sea air, but you don’t have to travel far to get that holiday feeling.

We take you on a tour of coastal living through the eyes of those who live and work in St. Donats, Ogmore-by-Sea,  Porthcawl, and Mumbles.

Mumbles

As one of Wales’ best loved coastal gems, Mumbles holds many precious memories of summers spent by the sea for those who have discovered its magic and delights.
In Mumbles, you’ll find true quintessential coastal living. Nestled in the curve of the Gower Peninsula coastline, it is the ideal spot for exploring the beautiful bays around Swansea and Gower, which are overflowing with native wildlife.

The natural beauty of the area will draw you into its heart, as it has done for so many others before, including the likes of Welsh poet and writer Dylan Thomas, whose works were undoubtedly inspired by the stunning Mumbles  landscapes.

With a comforting community feel, but a cosmopolitan and culturally rich vibe, Mumbles is a desirable place to lay down roots, and you won’t have to travel far to find all of the entertainment opportunities you need. Surrounded by ancient lighthouses, a Victorian pier, and a crumbling castle, you can soak up the sea views, explore the curious bays, reflect on local history and tradition, or embark on outdoor adventures right on your doorstep.

The area can offer so many possibilities depending on the lifestyle you are seeking, from spa retreats and handmade crafts, to surfing, gourmet delights and the pubs of the famous Mumbles Mile. It’s hard to believe that you could have all of this within close proximity to the vibrant city of Swansea, and with easy access to the M4.

Ogmore-By-Sea

Situated at the western end of the Glamorgan Heritage Coastline, Ogmore-by-Sea is a quaint and friendly village known for being warm and welcoming.

It can also boast having arguably one of the most impressive beaches Wales has to offer. At the mouth of the Ogmore Estuary, sandy pebbled beaches stretch for miles and miles.

Flanked by limestone cliffs, carved-out caves and coastal paths, it is a dream destination for outdoor adventure lovers seeking a spot for climbing, bouldering, caving, surfing, and walking. You can even take a step back in time as you hop across the river along the stepping stones at the ruins of  Ogmore Castle, or pick up ancient fossils on the beach.

At Ogmore-by-Sea, you can truly be at one with nature amid the unique habitats of this un-spoilt coastline, which is a haven for birds and wildlife. The exclusive environment of the Merthyr Mawr Warren, a national nature reserve, is no different, being home to a multitude of species that thrive among its towering sand dunes, which have long ago swallowed the old village of Tregallaw. Moving to Ogmore-by-Sea will provide you with more than just a home, but also an envious lifestyle where you can appreciate everything that nature has to offer in this incredible part of Wales.

Porthcawl

With its sandy golden beaches and rolling surf, Porthcawl has been a traditional Welsh seaside holiday destination for decades.

With seven exceptional beaches to relax on during the sunny summer months, a Victorian promenade for an evening stroll, the oldest Royal National Lifeboat Institution in the UK, and an energetic funfair for the kids, Porthcawl is a destination for the whole family to enjoy.
However, it is not just a beloved holiday spot, but also a fantastic place to call your home. Located between Cardiff and Swansea its ideal location is attracting a new wave of homeowners.

Benefitting from incredible views, beaches, history, and heritage, Porthcawl is a  thriving town on the Welsh coast, offering a laidback lifestyle in the perfect location to settle down with your family. The blue flag beaches of Porthcawl are renowned for their surfing and watersports opportunities, allowing you and your family to keep active and fit in the great outdoors. Yet if you’re searching for a more luxurious and relaxed lifestyle, Porthcawl can offer that too.

Why not take a trip to the characterful harbour and enjoy fish and chips by the sea, or spend an evening at the Grand Pavilion arts centre absorbing live music and theatre? You could even while away the hours in style on the greens of the world class Royal Porthcawl golf course. What more could you ask for?

St Donats

Steeped in history, the village of St. Donats is a treasure trove tucked away off the Vale of Glamorgan coastline.

Its rich heritage is still clear to see in ancient churches, a medieval sundial, an old rectory, St. Donats Castle, Nash Point Lighthouse, and much more. St. Donats beach has hidden historical secrets, as the coastline is awash with ancient fossils lying undiscovered, just waiting to be unearthed.

Aside from its remarkable past, St. Donats continues to leave its stamp on Wales in the present day. This small and secluded spot has evolved into a hub of culture and educational excellence, with Atlantic College and St. Donats Arts Centre housed at the heart of the striking and well-preserved castle.

The Arts Centre regularly hosts events of all types, from music, to theatre, to dance, so you can enjoy your favourite live performances in a unique venue by the sea. You too could appreciate this magnificent environment and everything on offer in this special village by becoming a part of the close-knit St. Donats community.