Seal pups, sea-breezes and stepping gently on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path

How to enjoy nature responsibly at Cwm Connell

Introduction

Nestled in the peaceful valley of Moylegrove, our holiday cottages at Cwm Connell provide the perfect base for reconnecting with nature. From strolling down to the pebbly cove of Ceibwr Bay, walking along the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast Path, and — yes — spotting one of nature’s most enchanting coastal residents: the grey seal and their adorable pups.

Why seals matter, and why Pembrokeshire is so special

The nutrient-rich waters around the coast of Pembrokeshire support a thriving population of grey seals (Grey Seal, Halichoerus grypus). In fact, this region is one of the best in Europe for marine wildlife.

From August to November, female seals haul out on quiet beaches to give birth and nurse their pups. It’s a magical time of year when you may glimpse a white-coat pup resting on the shore while its mother hunts.

What visitors can experience

• Gentle cliff-top vantage points just a short walk from your cottage, where you may spot seals bobbing in the water or asleep on rocks.
• A walk from your cottage, via woodland and stream, down to the coast, then out onto the Pembrokeshire Coast Path for dramatic sea views.
• The joy of combining walking, fresh sea-air and wildlife-encounters in one stay at a dog-friendly holiday cottage.

The importance of protecting seal pups & their habitat

While this is a wonderful experience, it comes with responsibility. Seal mums and pups are extremely sensitive to disturbance: being too close can lead the mother to abandon the pup or cause stress that reduces survival chances.

Here are essential guidelines — for both your enjoyment and the seals’ welfare.

Safety rules & responsible behaviour

From the land:

• View from the coast path or high vantage where possible; use binoculars or zoom cameras.
• Stay at least 50 m, preferably more (100+ m when possible) from any hauled-out seals.
• Avoid descending to beaches where seal pups are present.
• Keep your dog on a short lead, or if possible leave your dog at home when you’re going into very sensitive areas. Dogs can disturb seals severely.
• Stay quiet and low-profile; noises and sudden movements can cause panic.

From the water (if kayaking, paddle-boarding or boat-based):

• Avoid landing on pupping beaches.
• Do not come between a mother and her pup. Usually the mother is in the water near the pup; approaching can cause her to retreat and leave the pup vulnerable.
• Keep boat speed and noise low; keep a steady course, don’t chase or aim toward seals.
• Do not swim with, touch or feed seals — they’re protected by law and human interaction can be harmful to both parties.

Why this matters for Cwm Connell guests

By staying with us, you’re ideally placed for both a relaxing holiday and a wildlife-encounter — but with that privilege comes the opportunity to be a responsible visitor. The cliffs and coast path around us are home to these animals; your mindful behaviour keeps that experience special for you and for wildlife.

Small steps (staying at a distance, being quiet, controlling dogs) allow us all to continue enjoying this coast while preserving it for future visitors and for the pups who will return next year.

How you can enhance your stay

• Bring binoculars or a zoom-capable camera – perfect for watching seals from safe vantage points.
• Choose times early morning or later afternoon when seals are most likely to be hauled out.
• Let us know if you’d like a recommended walking route along the coast path from Cwm Connell – we’re happy to help map a gentle walk that takes in seal-viewing areas.
• Share your photos with us (we’d love to re-post on our social channels) — and help spread the message: “wildlife is best enjoyed at a respectful distance”.

Final thought

Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, spotting the bobbing heads of grey seals, hearing the sea-swell and feeling the fresh wind – there’s a magic to this place. At Cwm Connell we invite you to join us in experiencing it, and in preserving it. Together we can help ensure that seal pups will continue to bob, play and laze on the rocks for many years to come.

We look forward to welcoming you to our cottages, where you can step into nature, tread lightly and make memories.

— The Cwm Connell Team