Pwllheli

The West End of the Llŷn Peninsula feels properly Welsh - a place where the sea air carries hints of salt and seaweed, and the landscape shifts from rolling farmland to dramatic coastal cliffs within minutes. Pwllheli sits at the heart of it all, a market town that's managed to retain its character despite being the area's main hub.

This isn't your typical seaside resort. Sure, there's Traeth Towyn for a decent stretch of sand, but the real draws lie scattered across the peninsula. Porth Ysgaden offers a more secluded spot for coastal walks, while the archaeological intrigue of Coetan Arthur - a Neolithic burial chamber - provides a proper glimpse into ancient Wales. The peaks of Mynydd Cefnamlwch and Foel Meyllteyrn reward walkers with sweeping views across Cardigan Bay.

Getting here means a bit of planning. The nearest major station is actually back in Bangor, though Pwllheli does have its own rail link via the scenic Cambrian Coast line. Roads can be narrow and winding once you leave the A499, but that's part of the charm.

Staying at one of the holiday parks dotted around the area makes perfect sense. Haven Hafan y Môr Holiday Park offers a good base for families, while those seeking something different might consider the glamping options at Glampio Coed or NightSky Glamping. The peninsula's compact size means you're never more than a short drive from wild beaches like Porth Cychod or cultural spots like the Canolfan Dreftadaeth a Natur Llŷn heritage centre.

Weekdays here feel genuinely quiet - locals outnumber visitors, and you'll have those coastal paths largely to yourself. It's Wales at its most authentic.