The region abounds in wildlife, and the nature reserve at Teifi Marshes near to Cardigan is well within distance, affording a chance to see the elusive kingfishers.

The county and offshore islands are steeped in history, it abounds with a wonderful coastline and landscapes, and heritage, with castles churches and a very special cathedral. The cathedral and bishops palace is located in St David?s City, which is the smallest city in the United Kingdom. The city is where we set our base to travel, play golf, and go on bird watching expeditions.

Suffice to say that the visit to Ramsey Island and the coast around was spectacular, sadly the sea conditions prevented a cruise out to the more distant islands, but the sightings of sea birds and seals and porpoises were ample reward.

To return to the golfing scene, here again the quality and variety of golf available is amazing. From the classic links of Tenby, to the tiny cliff top course at St Davids, the choice is wide and varied. Our first port of call was at Haverfordwest, on the main A40 road, a parkland course presented in first class condition. Not long but a pleasure to play, and the ideal christening after a long drive. The views to the Presilli Mountains provide the perfect backdrop.

The big challenge was next on the agenda, thanks to the hospitality of Secretary David Hancock, Tenby was the venue to test how well the clubs were to perform. Standing on the first tee, looking to the saddle gap in the hills it was question time. Fortunately those sticks which have a mind of their own, decided to co-operate, and a delightful round ensued.

The James Braid designed layout was a test from first to last, and with a fluctuating wind, pars were a victory. A classic out and back links, with fabulous views over the sea, and even a reminder of National Service with the rifle butts visible from the 8th tee.

This is a club steeped in history, formed in 1888, but with evidence of golf played many years prior, the club was a founding member of the Welsh Golf Union in 1895. Records show that the first player to break 100, was the club professional P Nihook, who played the nine hole course twice and shot 78.

The 18 hole course opened a few years later in 1907. This course is a must for golf efficiennados, wonderful holes that tease and torment, but reward the good shots, even the blind holes have a forgiving green waiting behind the dunes.

The last outing could not have been more of a contrast, a visit to the nine hole St Davids City course, set on the cliff tops overlooking Whitesands Bay. This charming links still has an honesty box, and a means to make a coffee after the round.

The county has two more mature courses well worth the visit. Another James Braid design at Newport Links, which is a nine hole course with undulating fairways and postage stamp greens. It is on the coast under Carningli (mountain of the angels) in the Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park. There has recently been a £ 1.5 million development so that the club can provide accommodation in twelve twin bedded rooms and three luxury suites.

An ideal place to be based for walking, game fishing, nature and of course golf. Milford Haven is a meadowland course, which was originally 9holes but is now 18 holes. The vista of the Haven is seen from the 7th hole, appropriately named The Jetty, and from the 10th ?Doc's you can see Gellyswick Bay and the Napoleonic Fort on the hill.

The upstairs lounge in the clubhouse offers excellent views across the course whilst enjoying a refresher after the round. More recent additions to the menu are Priskilly Forest and Trefloyne, both opening in the 1990's. They are parkland courses, and like all the clubs in Pembrokeshire, they welcome visitors.

Pembrokeshire Golf has been positive in offering golf packages, and it is possible to play a choice of three courses for just £ 60, a real bargain.

A wonderful county for golf and outdoor pursuits, and one that will surely become more and more popular as the area becomes known as a golfing destination to be savoured.