Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve

Two river valleys carved into the Anglesey hills meet at Coedydd Aber, and the whole place feels properly wild despite being just outside Llanfairfechan. This is ancient woodland - oak and ash mostly - that drops down to the Afon Aber estuary where fresh water meets salt. You walk it, not tour it. The main trail follows the river upstream through the trees, and it's genuinely lovely if you catch it on a quiet day.

Walkers will find it worthwhile. The paths are well-marked and manageable, though they do climb a bit if you're going for the longer loop. Allow two hours minimum if you want to see both valleys properly. Bird watchers should come during migration periods - warblers and redstarts turn up regularly. The estuary itself is where you'll spot oystercatchers and herons at high tide.

Free to access, no visitor centre or facilities that I could see. Go early or late to miss families. Winter's actually good - fewer insects and the bare trees let you see the geology properly. Spring brings the woodland flowers, but you'll share it with school groups.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks within five miles - Three Streams is closest, though Craiglwyd Hall and Ogwen Bank give you more choice - this makes a cracking half-day break from whatever else you're doing. It's not a destination in itself, but it's exactly what you need when you want to stretch your legs without driving far. Park in Llanfairfechan and walk from there.