Colwyn Bay to Llandudno: Coastal Route
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The coastal route from Colwyn Bay to Llandudno is one of the finest stretches of the Wales Coast Path on the North Wales coast — 6 miles (9km) passing through four distinct communities, along a regenerated promenade, through the quieter coastal village of Rhos-on-Sea, across the Penrhyn Bay seafront, up and over the Little Orme headland, and down into the grand Victorian resort of Llandudno.
The route also forms part of National Cycle Network Route 5 and a dedicated cycleway runs along much of the coastal stretch, mostly traffic-free on good tarmac surface. It is one of the few truly flat-ish cycling options in North Wales, though the Little Orme climb is a genuine challenge if taken by bike.
The Route in Detail
Colwyn Bay to Rhos-on-Sea (1.5 miles, flat): Follow the regenerated promenade west from Pier Bae Colwyn. Pass Porth Eirias — a good stop for breakfast or coffee at Bryn Williams’ Michelin Guide restaurant before setting off. Continue west along the seafront to Rhos Point. Don’t miss St Trillo’s Chapel — the smallest church in Britain, just beside the sea wall.
Rhos-on-Sea to Penrhyn Bay (1 mile, flat): The path continues west along the coastal road through Rhos-on-Sea and into Penrhyn Bay, a residential seafront community with its own beach access. The cycle track is largely traffic-free here.
Penrhyn Bay to Little Orme summit (1 mile, steep climb): This is the only significant ascent on the route. The Wales Coast Path heads up onto the Rhiwledyn SSSI — the Little Orme headland managed by the North Wales Wildlife Trust. The climb is moderate to steep, and on a clear day the summit rewards with panoramic views of Colwyn Bay behind and Llandudno Bay ahead. The path passes above the cliffs to a viewpoint above Angel Bay, where grey seals can often be spotted on the rocks below.
Little Orme to Llandudno (2.5 miles, descent then flat): The path descends to Penrhyn Bay/Craig-y-Don on the Llandudno side and follows the seafront into Llandudno town. The North Shore promenade, the Victorian pier and the Great Orme are all ahead.
Practical Information
Distance & Time
6 miles (9km) one-way. Walking: 2.5–3 hours at a steady pace, including the Little Orme climb. Cycling: 45–60 minutes (experienced cyclist); allow longer with the climb.
Getting Back
The easiest return is by train: Llandudno Junction to Colwyn Bay is a short hop on the North Wales Main Line (check Transport for Wales timetables). Alternatively, buses run along the coastal road.
Refreshments
Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias is the best start-point. Rhos-on-Sea has cafes in the village. Llandudno has a wide range of restaurants and cafes on arrival.
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