Millenneum Cycle Path Gowerton to Pembrey and back

Colin & I had previously ridden the route and had enjoyed it so much that we decided given the weather, we'd give it another go! The sun, a generous orb in the clear Welsh sky, cast a warm glow over the start of our cycle ride in Gowerton.Tyres hummed softly on the smooth tarmac of the Millennium Coastal Path as it beckoned towards the coast once we had left the streets of Gowerton behind. The landscape quickly opened up, revealing breathtaking vistas of the Loughor Estuary. The shimmering water reflecting the azure sky like a vast mirror with the early morning mist clinging to the mudflats being exposed by the receding tide.

Pedalling west, the air, fresh and carrying the faint scent of salt, invigorated the senses. Wildflowers, splashes of vibrant colour against the green verges, danced in the sunlight. The path, mostly flat and blissfully car-free, meandered gracefully, offering panoramic views across the estuary towards Llanelli with its 450 acre wetlands centre, following NCR 4 passing the old North dock which was built to export coal and tin plate and which has now been redevloped as waterside residences. Birdsong provided a cheerful soundtrack to the rhythmic whir of the bicycle wheels along with the greetings of early morning dog walkers and fellow cyclists.

The journey towards Pembrey was a delight. Each turn in the path unveiled new perspectives – the distant silhouette of the industrial heritage blending with the natural beauty, the occasional glimpse of wading birds along the muddy banks, the lush green landscape of Mychynys Golf course and the modern structure that houses the Burry Port lifeboat all added to the anticipation of reaching Pembrey Country. Burry Port with its yachting marina is famed in aviation history as Amelia Earhart had landed here in 1928. Although she did not pilot the plane on this occasion, she later went on to fly across the Atlantic single handed in 1932. Finally, the entrance to the park came into view, a stunning reward for the effort. The park itself is vast. 500 acres of sandy beaches, backed by dunes and the whispering pines of Pembrey Forest. The park offers families a variety of activities in an idyllic setting. After a well-deserved pause to soak in the coastal atmosphere and refresh our energy in the cafe , it was time to turn the handlebars east for the return journey, pausing for the obvious photograph by the giant green bike.

The ride back towards Gowerton offered a different perspective on the same beautiful route. The midday sun continued to paint the landscape in warm hues. Familiar landmarks took on a new charm in the changing light. The gentle headwind on some stretches provided a mild challenge, a reminder of the physical exertion that made the stunning scenery even more appreciated. As Gowerton drew closer the feeling of contentment was palpable – the satisfaction of a good cycle, the lungs filled with fresh air, and the mind refreshed by the beauty of the Welsh coastline. The Millennium Coastal Path had once again delivered a perfect day out, a sunny escape through the sheer joy of cycling. Written by AI and tweaked by me!