RUGGED coastline, magnificent beaches and secluded coves are just some of Pembrokeshire’s natural charms waiting to be explored.

The National Trust owns and manages over 50 miles of the county’s coast including coastal farms and open spaces.

And surely the jewel in the crown is the idyllic Stackpole Estate which has been set aside as a National Nature Reserve to protect wildlife and their habitats.

Situated between the villages of Stackpole and Bosherston, about five miles south of Pembroke, the estate lies within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and has two superb sandy beaches which are great for both surfers and families.

Barafundle is a truly magnificent beach set between limestone cliffs and backed by dunes and woods.

This secluded bay can only be reached by a cliff path walk from Stackpole Quay with steep steps at either end.

At the Quay itself you can indulge in a freshly prepared crab salad lunch, homemade cream tea or an ice cream at the Boathouse Tearoom with its outdoor seating area with sea views.

Thirty kilometres of footpath link the lakes, woods, cliffs and beaches and there are circular half-day or full-day walks for the more adventurous.

At Bosherston Lakes you can take a stroll past marsh and wet woodland in total tranquility and try to spot otters, waterfowl and dragonflies among the lily ponds or follow one of the footpaths from the site of the old Stackpole Court mansion to Lodge Park Wood with its ornamental plantings, ice house and summer house.

Take the coastal path to Trewent Point which passes the fine coastal fort at Greenala or explore the grassland and dunes rich in wildflowers and butterflies.

And the Mencap Stackpole Gardens, created by students with learning disabilities, are well worth a look too. The immaculate gardens, which provide horticultural training and work experience, cover five acres and the students’ plants and produce are available to buy.

There are ten National Trust-owned holiday cottages at Stackpole Quay, sleeping from two to five people. Most are converted farm buildings, including a granary and a dairy, situated around an historic courtyard.

Family and group accommodation is also on offer at the Stackpole Centre which was converted from the estate's old stone Home Farm. It comprises three large houses and five cottages, which sleep 5-19 people. Facilities include a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, theatre and conference rooms.

For more information on the Stackpole Estate visit nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-stackpole For more details about the Mencap Stackpole Gardens visit stackpole-walledgardens.co.uk