21 Aug 2026
Have you heard of Ynys Enlli, the Welsh 'Island of 20,000 Saints'?
Known for its rich Celtic history, Dark Sky Sanctuary and thriving wildlife, Ynys Enlli is a must-see when you're visiting Llŷn Peninsula.
Where is Ynys Enlli?
Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island) is an island just off the tip of Llŷn Peninsula.
How can I get there?
Book our fflecsi bus and get dropped off at Porth Meudwy beach. From there, you can walk 10 minutes from the car park to get to the shore where you can catch the boat with Bardsey Boat Trips. The boat trip takes between 20 – 30 minutes.
What can I do at Ynys Enlli?
From the Dark Sky Sanctuary to the Bird Observatory, there are plenty of things to do at Ynys Enlli:
Discover the history of the island
A world of Welsh history awaits you at Ynys Enlli. Renowned for its Celtic monastery, the island has a deep spiritual history, earning its name of ‘the burial place of 20,000 Saints’.
Dating back to 2nd century B.C, discover stories of Viking invasions and learn about Ynys Enlli's spiritual significance with Rome. Visit the remains of Iron Age huts and see the lighthouse that is over 200 years old.
Wildlife, birdlife and sealife
Even on the boat journey to the Island, you'll catch a glimpse of the world of wildlife that exists there. Dolphins and porpoises can often be spotted in the waters, and over 200 grey seals live amongst the coves of Ynys Enlli.
With over 332 species of bird recorded on the island, it's a birdwatcher's dream. Lying in the migration paths of many birds, the Bardsey Bird & Field Observatory have been monitoring birdlife on Ynys Enlli for over 70 years. Choughs, oystercatchers, falcons and herons are among many of the birdlife you might spot when visiting Ynys Enlli.
Sustainable lobster and crab fishing has been an important part of Ynys Enlli for generations. You can order freshly caught lobster at the island's on-site cafe, Caffi Ynys Enlli (but it must be ordered 24 hours before).
Dark Sky Sanctuary
Did you know that Wales is home to Europe's first International Dark Sky Sanctuary?
Achieving the international certification in 2023, Ynys Enlli joins 16 other sites worldwide in this status. With almost zero light pollution, Ynys Enlli is the perfect place to witness the beauties of our dark skies. On your visit, you might see the Northern Lights, Milky Way and a literal sky full of stars.
Visit an exhibition
The Bardsey Island Trust is committed to promoting the cultural heritage of the island. Whilst you're there, why not check out what exhibitions they're holding? You can visit their 'Reflections from a Small Island' exhibition, a mix of film, photography, sound, poetry and more. This exhibition is open until 13 September 2026.
Our Llŷn Peninsula fflecsi bus service is a great aid to your trip to Ynys Enlli. This is a seasonal service that will operate until 12 September.
Visit our webpage to find out more and book your trip: https://tfw.wales/fflecsi/locations/llyn-peninsula
