An RSPB reserve, Ramsey is just off the end of the St Davids peninsula. There’s a 3½ mile trail round the island, which can be rugged in places. Refreshments and a toilet are available. You can also hire binoculars.
At nearly 120m (400 ft) in places, the western cliffs are among the highest in Wales. They are home to Ravens, Peregrines and Buzzards. In spring, Guillimots, Razorbills, Fulmars, Kittiwakes and Shags come to nest too. Choughs also breed on these cliffs, seeking out deep fissures and caves in which to build their nests. From mid-July, however, the cliffs empty as the auk chicks head out to the open sea. Several hundred seal pups are born each autumn on Ramsey's beaches and in the caves.
The southern heathlands are a special combination of heather, gorse and coastal plants. This habitat is the haunt of Stonechats, Meadow Pipits, Linnets and Skylarks. The summits of Carn Ysgubor and Carn Llundain give splendid views east to the mainland, south to Skomer Island and on the clearest of days, west to Ireland. Look out for Wheatears, Pipits and feeding Choughs.
How to get there:
Boats leave from St Justinians at 10 am and 1 pm, returning at 1.15 pm and 4 pm. Park in St Davids and catch the shuttle bus to St Justinians. The return boat crossing costs£10 for adults and £5 for children. Landing fees for adults are £4 and children £2. RSPB members are free. Numerous boat trips will take you around the island to see the wildlife at sea level.
What to see:
- Razorbills
- Guillimots
- Kittiwakes
- Fulmars
- Shags
- Choughs
- Peregrine Falcons
- Seals
Map
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Links:
RSPB
Thousand Islands Boat Trips