Rhiw and Bardsey (Gallery)
The Lleyn peninsula is the northern limiter of Wales’ Cardigan Bay and has a history of pilgrimage as well as many prehistoric artefacts and burial chambers. The tip of the Lleyn peninsula is as close as you can get to Bardsey Island without making the crossing and it is to the Bardsey Monastery that pilgrims headed in the past. The monastery was in use until the dissolution of the monasteries in 1537. It is said that one pilgrimage to Bardsey was equivalent of three to Rome!
Between Bardsey and Rhiw are Aberdaron and Porth Ysgo which contribute to a rugged coastline and an intricate western panorama which lends itself to sunset imagery. If the timing is good Bardsey Island is placed just in front of the sinking sun and a dark craggy coastline nearer to hand, ideal!
Rhiw is situated on a 600m headland that also plays a part by adding variable height into any image composition. Having set the scene, all it takes is the correct situation and the anticipated images can be taken. Of course, Rhiw is also remote, meaning that a decision to go does not always deliver. It took three attempts over a couple of years before all the factors were in place and I finally photographed the sunset I wanted.
