Some holidaymakers might be convinced that Pembrokeshire is just too remote to visit, given that its original Welsh name, 'Pen Fro', means 'land's end'. And such is the area's beauty that the Welsh could be forgiven for wanting to reserve such a wonderful place for their own enjoyment. But the defensive fortresses they once built to fend off the English, now draw them in, and tourists visiting from across the border are now most welcome.
Visitors come not only for the ancient castles, but also for Pembrokeshire's stretches of rugged coast and clean sandy shores. The beaches are so good, in fact, that they have won more awards than in any other county in Britain. They are as beautiful as Cornwall's, but far less crowded.
Perhaps less well known are its stunning seaside towns, such as Tenby and Pembroke. Tenby's pastel-coloured Georgian houses, looming above the harbour, make a charming backdrop to the fabulous beaches. This earned the town the title, 'My Special Place', in the Welsh National Tourism Awards, ahead of Snowdon and St Davids, based on voting by the public. But it doesn't need an award to underline its appeal.
Pembroke's charms spring from its bustling atmosphere, with small, old-fashioned shops lining the main street. When we visited, the bunting was out, and local people, as well as tourists, ambled along the pavements looking into the brightly painted shops. It's this mix of the routine and the strikingly picturesque that makes Pembrokeshire so special.

SEE ALSO IN THE MAY 2006 ISSUE OF PRACTICAL CARAVAN
The Great Outdoors, Holiday Hints, Nature Notes, Contacts, History and Culture, Foodies' Corner, Holiday Souvenirs, Family Fun, Festivals & Events

To enable you to pick and choose from our comprehensive range of Great Escapes, we have collected them all here for you.
CLICK HERE