Traeth Tal-y-bont

The beach at Tal-y-bont is one of those stretches of Welsh coast that rewards you for bothering to find it. You won't stumble across it by accident - the village of Talybont sits inland, and you have to know where you're going to reach the shore. Once you do, you get a proper quiet cove with sand and shingle, backed by low cliffs and the kind of space that makes you wonder why everyone's fighting over Barmouth instead.

It's the sort of place walkers love because the walk there is half the point - coastal paths connect it to other bays, and you can lose a morning exploring without seeing another soul. The beach itself is fine for paddling and a swim if the weather's obliging, though it's not a sunbathing destination. Low tide opens up more sand. Family groups get a kick out of the rock pools, and there's enough room to kick a ball around without disturbing anyone.

There's no visitor infrastructure to speak of - no cafés, no car park amenities - so bring what you need. The closest proper facilities are back in Talybont or further afield in Barmouth. That's part of its charm, mind. You're there for the beach itself, not the seaside entertainment.

If you're based at any of the nearby parks - Rowen Caravan Park is less than a mile away, or Shell Island a bit further - this makes an excellent half-day outing. Combine it with walks to Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls inland and you've got a proper day sorted.