A pretty old fishing village with a picturesque harbour and a resemblance to a sought-after coastal hotspot has been named one of the most beautiful villages in the UK.
Solva is included in Condé Nast Traveller’s list of the UK’s 20 most beautiful towns and villages, and it really does have all the Welsh charm you could want, with its harbour punctuating the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline and the cutest houses you ever did see. It’s not hard to see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful places out there.
“Even on the greyest day Solva adds a flash of colour to the Pembrokeshire coast, with its brightly painted cottages", says Condé Nast. “Take the plunge off the harbour wall at high tide and scale The Gribin – a rocky headland at the entrance to the harbour – for views along the coast and across to St Brides Bay. When the sun does shine, arm yourself with an ice cream from Pointz Castle before grabbing a spot on the beach to watch the sun go down with a takeaway fish platter (go for the dressed crab and lobster) from Mrs Will the Fish.”
As well as those places, there’s also Window on Wales (a shop selling lots of beautiful arts and crafts spread over three floors), Cafe on the Quay (an idyllic place to sit in the summer sunshine and watch harbour life unfold below) and the Cambrian Inn. It has been compared to Devon's Salcombe.
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We can’t say we disagree. Solva is just oozing with all the magic that makes it the perfect place for villagers, with plenty of places to soak up the tranquil atmosphere (even if The Times named it one of Britain's "poshest" villages), as well as being every tourist’s dream and countless spots to capture some Instagram-worthy photos.
For nature-lovers, Solva also offers breath-taking coastal walks. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs through the village, offering panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and sweeping beaches. Whether you're an avid hiker or just enjoy a leisurely stroll, these walks will leave you in awe of the area's natural beauty. History buffs will also be delighted to explore the village's fascinating past.
Solva has a rich maritime heritage, and remnants of its history can be found throughout the village. From Solva Woollen Mill which dates back to the 17th century, to the charming St. Aidan's Church from the 18th century, there's something to captivate everyone's interest.
Food lovers will also find solace in Solva. The village boasts a range of delightful cafes and restaurants, serving up delicious local produce. From freshly caught seafood to traditional Welsh delicacies, there's something to satisfy every palate. It even counts Carol Vorderman as a resident.
Have you been to Solva? Let us know where your favourite spot is in the comments below, or if you're planning a visit, where you're heading to first!
