Tenby Car Tours: Top 5 Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Tenby, with its pretty harbour and pastel-coloured buildings, makes a fantastic base for exploring the southwestern coast of Wales. It’s almost like the kind of place that just begs to be discovered slowly, taking in all the views and little hidden spots along the way. One of the finest ways you can do just that is, of course, by car. So, buckle up, because we’re about to explore five amazing car tours you just shouldn’t miss if you find yourself lucky enough to visit this part of Pembrokeshire. Each route offers, really, a window into the beautiful landscapes, ancient sites, and charming villages that this area has to offer. Now you can plan that holiday with great preparation advice!

1. The Coastal Cruise to Saundersfoot

Our first excursion heads north to the lovely village of Saundersfoot, and it’s definitely a bit of a favourite. It’s that route everyone loves for its really easy drive and even better coastal scenery. That being said, the total drive is pretty short – only about 3 miles – yet don’t let the length fool you. Alternative driving options can expand it easily.

You begin in Tenby, making sure you are pointing north on the A4061, it couldn’t be simpler, actually. As you cruise out of Tenby, look out for terrific glimpses of Carmarthen Bay, a sweeping view that definitely makes you feel like you are on vacation. Then, as you pull into Saundersfoot, you’ll find yourself right in a spot where fishing boats bob gently and sandy beaches beckon. That being the case, it’s the spot for a calming walk or just breathing in that sea air.

Saundersfoot itself has an appealing story to tell. Originally, that spot used to be all about shipping coal, with the harbour a key spot for transporting coal to various locations. At the end of the day, these days though, its main trade is pleasing visitors and enjoying the sea. Make certain you visit the harbour, enjoy some nearby dining spots, and, if the weather permits, even have a go at paddleboarding! The coastal views and friendly environment could be very uplifting, almost making Saundersfoot a splendid spot for a mini day out. Consider grabbing a book about the surrounding areas with more travel ideas like general area travel tips.

2. Pembroke Castle and the South Pembrokeshire Drive

Going west takes you on an adventure toward Pembroke, that place famous for Pembroke Castle. Is that the right destination for history buffs, very picturesque views, and also a touch of exploration? Certainly seems that way, though! To start, you could leave Tenby heading west on the A4139, so that scenic route carries on for roughly 12 miles right to Pembroke. It could easily take you around 30 minutes without traffic, that would make the route smooth.

Speaking of Pembroke Castle, what a spot, it actually rises proudly on the banks of the River Cleddau. As a matter of fact, this mighty fortress is where Henry VII, yes the Tudor king, was born. And what is that supposed to mean? Walking around the grounds gives you this weird feeling of walking back in time. From the high stone walls to the deep history lingering in the air, it’s basically the sort of place that captures your senses.

And so after the castle, there’s also more of South Pembrokeshire waiting to be uncovered, the route could take you down to places like Angle, where the Irish Sea meets the shores of Wales, but anyway. The entire coastline near Angle gives fantastic views. Not to mention, you get some secluded beaches to explore for anyone fancying a pause in less frequented settings. After exploring Pembroke Castle, it may seem worth learning new languages to read books like French castle adventures.

3. The Preseli Hills and Ancient Wonders

Now, for something truly different, if you like that kind of thing, how about an excursion into the Preseli Hills? That area is steeped in history and some really cool landscapes, perfect, actually, for a long-ish day trip by car. Begin from Tenby and start travelling north-west; the most effective way includes the A478 and then the A4132. This route probably stretches nearly 30 miles, a good 45 minutes to an hour’s driving time. Take a look through your book on great drives to take to create those fresh travel memories.

As you get nearer the Preseli Hills, you’ll realize pretty quickly the landscapes shift very dramatically. It tends to be more rugged hills. And, you see wild moorland spread out before your eyes. The Preseli Hills have significant geologic importance. In other words, they are the origin spot for the bluestones of Stonehenge! That is right, these rocks are supposed to have been transported all the way from Wales to Wiltshire thousands of years ago. It feels somewhat crazy.

Don’t miss places such as Pentre Ifan close to Newport. It is an ancient burial chamber featuring a massive capstone seemingly supported by nothing. After that it’s an extremely picturesque and evocative spot. In addition, the drive provides stunning vistas over Pembrokeshire. Those travelling on this route enjoy some great moments of silence with nature.

4. The Llys-y-fran Reservoir Loop

Here’s a chance to escape into nature and some truly peaceful environments not so far from Tenby, now it seems to me this area deserves more appreciation, doesn’t it? A circular journey around Llys-y-fran Reservoir basically is spot-on for lovers of peaceful spots, and a touch of outdoors thrown in, just something soothing. The route, starting out from Tenby, usually involves travelling north again, connecting to the A4075 and then the B4313. That drive typically runs about 20 miles, requiring, let’s say, somewhere between 35 to 45 minutes.

The reservoir location now boasts some fantastic walking and cycling spots. Yet also there’s birdwatching and water activities for you to check out. That path running around Llys-y-fran tends to be mostly smooth and simple, suitable, if that is the thing you like, for those peaceful strolls when you’re enjoying nature. On a similar vein, it’s perfect for cycling if you fancy a slightly extended adventure.

This location is, perhaps, ideal if you like birdwatching. As that area attracts diverse species. What is it I hear you asking, something more adventurous perhaps? Then you might test the waters through paddle-boarding or kayaking. At the end of the day, you can rent facilities around the location. Overall, the Llys-y-fran Reservoir gives not just natural landscapes. Very interesting peace offers that is what you may take away.

5. Laugharne and the Dylan Thomas Connection

If you want a dash of culture and literary vibes for one, then a trip east to Laugharne really should be spot on, by the way! That is the town closely linked to Dylan Thomas, that awesome Welsh poet. The A477 is usually the option and from Tenby this pretty straight forward and mostly not confusing. Laugharne will be in range, the journey measures almost 25 miles. Assuming that traffic remains co-operative that may involve almost 40 minutes to arrive to get there.

Arriving into Laugharne is sort of like entering a different dimension; at least a step back in history, anyway. Thomas’ boathouse is something you are going to like because, seriously, it is very striking. Thomas fan’s like it so much, you can see it as it has been since his writing days. Furthermore, explore the Dylan Thomas Centre within town. And anyway it offers much to enjoy and learn.

The town provides stunning estuary landscapes plus the Laugharne Castle remains and those can also be looked into. The atmosphere feels calm, nearly, and filled mostly with cultural depth, which will provide an enriched feel and interesting end-spot to just any excursion originating directly out of Tenby.