Ffynnon Fair Holy Well

Ancient stone circles and modern pilgrims still mark this weathered holy well, tucked away in the hills above Harlech. Ffynnon Fair - meaning 'Mary's Well' - is one of those proper Welsh sacred sites where Christianity grafted itself onto much older beliefs. The water still bubbles up through worn stones, though you'll need to hunt about a bit to find the exact spot.

History buffs will appreciate the layers here. Medieval pilgrims left coin offerings and tied rags to nearby trees, a tradition that carries on today in faded strips of cloth fluttering from branches. The well itself is modest - don't expect anything grand or tourist-friendly. It's more about the atmosphere and the views across to the coast.

Families might find it underwhelming unless the kids are into archaeology or ghost stories. Takes about twenty minutes to explore properly, and it's free to visit whenever you fancy. The walk from the nearest parking is fairly gentle but can get muddy after rain.

If you're staying at one of the holiday parks near Harlech - Woodlands, Min-y-don or Castle View are all within walking distance - it makes a decent morning detour before hitting the beach. Combine it with a trip to Harlech Castle for a proper day out exploring medieval Wales.