Gwylfan View Point

The road climbs steeply out of Porthmadog, and suddenly you're looking down at something rather special. Gwylfan View Point delivers the kind of vista that makes you understand why people bother hiking in North Wales - sweeping views across Cardigan Bay, the Snowdonia peaks catching light differently every few minutes, and on clear days, the whole coastline opens up like someone's pulled back a curtain. It's a proper roadside stop rather than a major attraction, which means you can be here in ten minutes flat, or linger for an hour if the light's good and you've brought a flask.

This works best for drivers who want a genuine reward without the legwork. Photographers will find themselves coming back at different times of day - the late afternoon light here is worth planning around. If you're based at one of the nearby camping parks, it's an obvious evening detour, especially Glan-Y-Môr or Black Rock Sands, both within spitting distance. Even Ty'n Llan, the highest-rated spot at 5.0 stars but a bit further out, makes this a worthwhile drive.

Walkers might find it a bit of a tease - you get the payoff without the effort, which cuts both ways. Worth twenty minutes of your time if you're in the area, though don't expect facilities or crowds. Bring proper layers; the wind up here doesn't mess about, and weather can turn quickly. Free, obviously, and accessible whenever you fancy it.