Across the calendar, Anglesey offers a number of extreme competitions, from ultra marathons to triathlons.

Arguably the hardest of them all is the Ring O’Fire ultra marathon. The 135-mile coastal path event takes place across three days, circumnavigating the isle and combining the beautiful scenery with at times brutal terrain. This event makes for both one of the most visually stunning but physically challenging ultra marathon events in the the British Isles.

Off the back of completing the gruelling three-day Ring O’ Fire ultra marathon, we caught up with Hayley White, the fastest woman in the 2021 competition. Here’s her breakdown of the event.

“In September 2021 I competed in the Ring O’ Fire race on the Island of Anglesey. It has become something of a tradition to the Island and is celebrating its 10th year in 2021.

“Day one is approximately 36 miles and you have nine hours to complete the distance. To make sure all runners don’t accidently omit parts of the coastal path, honesty books are placed at strategic places so that you have to rip a page out and present it to a Marshal at the next Checkpoint.  An omitted page will cause a penalty of 3 hrs and for some, this could take them then outside of the cut off time. Day one is from Breakwater Country Park to Amlwch.

“Day two starts at 6am. The distance is around 66 miles and has to be completed in 18 hours. If you are successful to meet the checkpoint cut off times, navigate and collect all the honesty pages and to make it back to camp without being withdrawn and or DNF (did not finish) your position, then for the last time, you settle down for the night in Aberffraw.

“The third and final day is approximately 34 miles and you have nine and a half hours to complete.  Day three is another early start at 6am from Aberffraw and you finish right back where you started, in Breakwater Country Park.”

Hayeley had this to say on her experience: “I decided to enter Ring O’ Fire because I had never spent any time as a child or in fact, my later years on the Island and so, thought it was a great way to see Anglesey and take part in a race. Whilst I had to concentrate on navigation and keeping a check on my peers in the race, I was taken aback at how beautiful the coastline, villages and peninsular were.

“In parts it was breath-taking, and I remember on many occasions over the three days promising myself to come back to the island, especially with my husband and our son Freddie.

“Particular favourites of mine were Church Bay, Dullas and Moelfre, pretty cottages at Penmon Point, unforgettable Beaumaris, Newborough Forest and  “Mojitos” at Rhosneigr, who generously handed out Bacon Butties at the beginning of Day three. 

“Silver Bay was absolutely stunning and the hive of activity in the coves and bays before and after (rock climbing, swimming, kayaks and plenty of other people walking taking in the sites) was very evident.

“How have I never spent more time on Anglesey? It has everything and copious amounts more.  Whilst the race weekend was back-to-back blue sky and very hot, for the time of year, I could equally imagine in Winter it being just as idyllic in a different way.

“Anglesey and the Ring O’ Fire will hold a very special place in my heart and mind. I successfully completed the race and was crowned First Female Finisher.”  

To Learn more, click HERE.

Other events on Anglesey

Here are some of the other endurance events that take place on Anglesey enjoyed by many of Bulmer Holiday Park’s owners each year;

Superfeet Sandman events

For the hardiest of competitors, the Superfeet Sandman Triathlons and Duathlons offer the ultimate physical test along the beautiful beaches of Anglesey and through Newborough Forest, combining sea swimming, cycling and running.

Described as ‘the most beautiful triathlon in the race calendar’, this is certainly not one to miss for those looking for a serious test of endurance. Learn more HERE.

Half and Trial Half Marathons

Runners who like a challenge can check out both the half marathons and trial half marathons held on Anglesey. The 13-mile road race begins on Menai suspension bridge, with stunning views of Snowdonia National Park and the Menai Straits. The trail half marathon is the sister event, and takes competitors off-road through the scenic surrounds of Newborough Forest.

There are also 10K versions of each event available, for those looking to take on a shorter distance. The road race also offers a children’s 1-mile Dragons Dash race for families to enjoy. Find out more HERE. 

Tour De Mon (Cycling)

Those who prefer their exercise on two wheels can check out the Tour De Mon in Holyhead. This unique race offers the unrivalled experience of riding along huge stretches of the Anglesey coastline, with four different race lengths to opt for. 

From the Teulu 3.5 mile race, designed for families, to the Mawr 106 mile race, there’s something for everyone with a bike and an eagerness to experience the beautiful coastline in this unique way. For more information, click HERE.

Anglesey is one of the most perfect places in the entire UK to staycation. But don’t just take our word for it. The Times has recently released their list of the Best British Island Escapes, with incredible destinations from Cornwall to the Shetlands. We’re pleased to see our very own Anglesey has topped the list. Let’s explore what makes Anglesey an incredible destination for your next adventure. 

Visit Snowdonia National Park 

When you visit Anglesey you’re just a stone’s throw away from Snowdonia National Park and it’s easy to make a day trip out there. This national park is home to Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales as well as shimmering lakes offering a vast range of opportunities for outdoor activities. Snowdonia is a favourite amongst trekking enthusiasts and climbers alike, however, there is an opportunity for casual walkers to enjoy the mountains at a leisurely pace. We’d recommend getting there early to experience the stunning sunrise at the top of the mountain, don’t forget to bring your camera to take plenty of photos. 

Water sports

Anglesey is the largest island in North Wales, with 123 miles of stunning coastline it offers a playground for those seeking water-based adventures in the great outdoors. The coastline is full of blue flag beaches, rolling dunes, hidden coves and cliffs that tower overhead. But it’s the incredible waters that bring adrenaline junkies back repeatedly, with activities including water sailing, kayaking, surfing and sea paddling available. Did you know that you can go diving in Anglesey to discover the hidden underwater world full of reefs and shipwrecks? There is never a shortage of activities for those wanting to dive into the adventure!

Explore the smaller islands

There are a number of beautiful smaller islands off the coast of Anglesey that are great to explore on foot when the tide allows it or catch a boat to visit. One of the most popular is Puffin Island, which as the name suggests is home to a large group of puffins in the spring and early summer. This is an incredible chance to get close to these magnificent birds and makes for a great activity for the entire family. 

Experience South Stack 

South Stack is undoubtedly one of the most jaw-dropping parts of Anglesey, this viewpoint and RSPB reserve at Holy Island offers breathtaking views and is the perfect backdrop for your holiday snaps! Take a stroll along the cliffs to explore the South Stack lighthouse which is perfected on the top of a giant mound of rocks. Here you can experience breathtaking uninterrupted views of the zig-zagging coastline heading south of Holy Island. 

Ultimate relaxation 

Everyday life can be very busy, with people constantly switched on and staring at their smartphone phones and laptops it can be very hard to switch off. Anglesey makes that a little easier. As soon as you drive over that Menai Bridge, you will notice it gets a little quieter. In fact, Anglesey is one of the least crowded holiday destinations in Britain according to the Island Cottage Research. There’s plenty of relaxation opportunities from connecting with nature on a technology-free hike, to relaxing on the beach or visiting a spa to melt away your worries. So place your phone down, disconnect from the outside world and take the time to appreciate the soothing Anglesey air! 

Staycations have become the new vacations with more holidaymakers choosing to holiday in the UK every year. Discover why Anglesey has become a popular holiday destination for thousands of people each year, and why you need to add it to the top of your bucket list.

Strong Culture

The people of Anglesey pride themselves on the island’s rich heritage and culture and we couldn’t agree more. There’s plenty of Welsh Culture to immerse yourself in from the use of the Welsh language being prominently used on the island, local foods and crafts. Anglesey has plenty of historical sites to choose from including the Menai Heritage Centre which provides tales of the two famous bridges, Beaumaris Castle and the Oriel in Llangefni. You will never run out of fun activities and things to do while visiting Anglesey.

Short drive away

Imagine hopping into your car and being at your holiday home in a matter of hours. No more dealing with the stress of airport security, flight delays or stressful waiting at baggage claim for your luggage. Located just a short 2-hour drive from major North West cities Manchester and Liverpool, Anglesey offers a rare opportunity to feel worlds away from big city living and enjoy the relaxation of fresh coastal air. 

Incredible food

The island of Anglesey does know a thing or two about food! Whether you’re wanting to dine in, take away or cook for yourself using locally sourced produce, you will be guaranteed an incredible dining experience. Anglesey is renowned for its vast amount of award-winning food producers including Halen Môn, Tredici Butchers and Deli and The Lobster Pot. There is an artisanal producer for every meal, you can find out more about local producers here.  

Shop til you drop

You will need to make sure there’s plenty of space in your car boot for all the fantastic shopping opportunities available on the island. There is always something extra special to pick up on a trip to Anglesey from amazing gifts for friends and family or souvenir to remember your trip. The island offers a variety of handmade shopping options including pottery, painting and cuddly toys all created by a diverse range of local artists. For the fashion-conscious traveller there’s a vast selection of delightful designer boutiques across the island, we challenge you to find something you don’t like.

Go outdoors and explore

There is no shortage of things to do in Anglesey with plenty of places to explore and learn more about the island. Anglesey is proud to be declared an Area of Natural Beauty (AONB), and we’re sure you’ll understand why within minutes of visiting. Whether you are wanting tranquil green spaces filled with colourful flowers, or stunning towering towers nestled with sea birds or beautiful long stretches of sandy beaches, Anglesey really does cater to everyone! The island is an unspoilt haven to explore, with most holidaymakers either walking or cycling from a selection of popular Anglesey routes. 

Stunning coastline

With over 125 miles of beautiful coastline, Anglesey provides the ideal playground for a range of outdoor activities and water-based sports. Whether it’s kayaking around Holy Island, boat riding to see seals and dolphins or paddleboarding, there are so many water activities for every experience level. Alternatively for those not so comfortable taking a dip in the sea, the beach offers a great location for basking in that incredible welsh sun or explore some of the hidden coves dotted around the Island.