Harlech

That castle sitting on its rocky outcrop isn't just impressive - it's bloody intimidating. Harlech's 13th-century fortress dominates everything for miles, a proper statement of medieval power that still makes you catch your breath when you first see it. The town itself spreads below in a rather modest fashion, but don't let that fool you.

Climbing up to the castle is a bit of a workout, but those views across Tremadog Bay and the Llŷn Peninsula are absolutely cracking. On clear days, you can spot Snowdon's peaks rising in the distance. The town centre is fairly quiet - a few local shops and cafes that do decent Welsh cakes and proper coffee.

Llandanwg station puts you on the scenic Cambrian Coast railway line, though trains are infrequent. Most visitors drive, and it's about an hour from Dolgellau through some lovely Welsh countryside. The coast here is wild and windswept - Shell Island becomes accessible at low tide and offers brilliant camping right on the dunes.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense for exploring this stretch of coast. You've got Shell Island for the adventurous types who don't mind basic facilities in exchange for that beachfront location. Haven Greenacres Holiday Park offers more comfort while keeping you close enough to walk to Harlech's shops and pubs. The surrounding area takes in both mountain and coastal scenery - Snowdonia's southern reaches are within easy reach, while the beaches stretch for miles in both directions.