Borth

Three miles of golden sand stretch along the Welsh coast here, backed by some of the country's most impressive dunes. Borth sits on a dramatic sweep of coastline between Aberystwyth and Machynlleth, where the Dyfi estuary meets Cardigan Bay. The village feels properly windswept and wild - this isn't your typical seaside resort.

The Sand Dunes are the real draw, rolling inland like a mini-Sahara and perfect for fossil hunting when storms expose the ancient forest beneath. At low tide, the remains of the Wooden Boat emerge from the sand - a Bronze Age vessel that's been lying here for thousands of years. It's genuinely atmospheric stuff.

Across the estuary lies Aberdyfi, easily reached by the little railway that stops at both Penhelyg and Aberdyfi stations. The contrast is striking - while Borth feels raw and elemental, Aberdyfi is all pastel-painted cottages and yacht clubs. Clwb Golff Aberdyfi offers some of the finest links golf in Wales, with views across to Snowdonia on clear days.

For walkers, the hills inland are cracking. Llechwedd Melyn and Foel Lwyd provide proper climbs with rewarding views back down the coast, while Coed y Gofer offers gentler woodland paths when the weather turns.

Getting here is straightforward - the Cambrian Coast railway line connects Borth to both Aberystwyth (20 minutes north) and Machynlleth (15 minutes east). The A487 runs right through the village too.

Staying at one of the coastal parks nearby puts you right in the action. You're on the beach in minutes, but also perfectly placed for exploring both the wild Dyfi Valley inland and the university town of Aberystwyth up the coast.