Rock-hopping: geology by kayak
Kayaks offer a fantastic way to view the stunning geology of the Anglesey coastline. The view from the sea shows an unparalleled cross section in time in the sea cliffs and kayaks allow you to access areas otherwise inaccessible from the shore. Anglesey is an international GeoPark due to the importance of it’s geological heritage. Andy Short is one of the Island’s ‘Geo Guides’ and, whilst not an expert geologist, can help to interpret the various rock types and tell the story of the landscape and it’s formation. Guided kayak trips are being offered this year both as bespoke courses – book a day to suit your group – and on specific dates with funding support from the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty team at Isle of Anglesey County Council.
Trip 1 – Anglesey North West: Trearddur Bay to Rhoscolyn (Full Day)! This trip will look at the early cambrian rocks of the South Stack and New Harbour Groups. These include psammites, pelites, quartzites and dolerites. Participants will have the opportunity to view these rock types ‘in the field’. They will learn the story of the rocks and shown how they have been folded and re-folded over the millennia. The Rhoscolyn anticline will be used to exemplify the massive forces at work in shaping the landscape we see around us. In addition, participants will gain an insight into the history and folklore of the area, learning about romans and druids, pirates and shipwrecks and some of the stories of the people that lived on the coastal margin. Difficulty: Moderate – kayaking experience essential Minimum Age: 16
Trip 2 – Anglesey North Coast: Cemaes (Half Day)!
This trip will focus on the pre-cambrian limestone between Cemaes and Llanbadraig and gwna melange of the area. Participants will have the opportunity to view these rocks ‘in the field’. They will learn the story of the rocks and shown how they were created and how the melange was formed. They will also learn about man’s use of the rocks over the years. In addition, participants will gain an insight into the history and folklore of the area, learning about celtic saints, shipwrecks and some of the stories of the people that lived on the coastal margin. Difficulty: Easy – limited kayaking experience required