Magical hidden treasures on Caldey Island have been opened up to visitors this summer for the first time.

Thanks to a project by the Caldey Island estate, island-goers now explore a previously out of bounds section of the island and savour spectacular beauty spots of the sea surrounding landscape.

The stunning highlights - Redtop Bay and Sandtop Bay - are now visible from viewing points on a new coastal footpath - a 40-45 minute circular route on the west side of the monastic isle.

The footpath was officially opened by BBC weatherman and TV celebrity Derek Brockway, who was wowed by it during filming for his next Weatherman Walking series due to be screened in the New Year.

The footpath adds to the popular list of attractions and amenities on Caldey, including the monastery, Old Priory, Abbey, St. David's and St. Illtud churches, the lighthouse, chocolate factory, Post Office and museum, plus the perfume and gift shops and tea gardens.

And on a gloriously sunny day, local photographer Gareth Davies and I were also invited to see for ourselves the beauty now awaiting just a 20-minute boat trip from Tenby.

We were greeted as we disembarked the James Noel by Brothers Titus and Teilo, who welcomed us to the island and were justifiably proud of the new footpath we had come to explore.

Our guide was estate manager Ben Childs and as we meandered along the sweet-smelling yellow gorse-bedecked footpath, we were even treated to the breathtaking views whilst enjoying a free concert - courtesy of the singing birds overhead!

Ben explained how the footpath had been created during the winter months and how it was fully sign-posted thanks to assistance from Haydn Garlick at Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.

As we reached Sandtop Bay, both Gareth and I were truly amazed at the wonderous sight before us.

"You think you have seen all the beaches in Pembrokeshire, but you have seen nothing like this," said Gareth on his first glimpse of the bay. And how right he was.

Visitors are asked to note that, whilst the footpath is fully open now, the beaches along it are still out of bounds.

During our visit, I also chatted to John Cattini, the island's commercial manager, about the benefits the new footpath would provide for the island.

He said signs were 'encouraging' for a busy summer and was optimistic that the new coastal footpath would be enjoyed by the growing number of walkers heading for Caldey.

Here we share with you some of Gareth's favourite photographs of our visit showing what you can expect to find.