Cwmtydu Cove

The walk down to Cwmtydu Cove is half the appeal. From New Quay, you follow a coastal path that drops steeply through woodland before opening onto a proper little crescent of sand backed by high cliffs - the sort of place that makes you understand why people move to West Wales and never leave.

It's a working cove with fishing boats pulled up on the shingle, which gives it character most sanitised beaches have lost. The sand gets exposed at low tide, making it decent for a paddle, though the water's cold enough to take your breath away even in summer. There's no facilities here - no cafe, no loos, nothing but nature - so come prepared with a flask and a packed lunch if you're settling in for the afternoon.

This is walkers' territory more than sunbathers'. The coastal path either side offers brilliant rambling, especially heading towards Penbryn to the north if you've got the legs for it. Families with young kids might find the steep descent a bit of a mission on the way back up, but teenagers who like a proper beach experience rather than a promenade will get something real here.

Stay at any of the holiday parks clustered around New Quay - Ty Rhos Farm or Cardigan Bay are within striking distance - and Cwmtydu makes a cracking half-day detour. Go early to avoid any crowds, though honestly you're unlikely to find many. That's rather the point.