Porthmadog

Steam trains whistle through this Victorian slate port where narrow gauge railways still carry passengers to the mountains. Porthmadog's harbour front tells the story of Welsh slate that once roofed half the world, though today the Ffestiniog Railway brings more visitors than cargo ships ever did.

The real draw here is Black Rock Sands Beach, where you can actually drive your car onto the sand - one of the few places in Wales where this Victorian tradition survives. Morfa Bychan stretches for miles at low tide, backed by dunes that form part of the North Wales Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve. Proper wild swimming territory when the weather's right.

Craig Y Gesail looms above town, offering cracking views across Cardigan Bay for those willing to make the climb. Down by the harbour, Y Ty Powdr - The Powder House stands as a reminder of the explosive industry that once kept the slate quarries running. These days it's the tourist trains that make the noise.

Getting here couldn't be easier - the A487 runs straight through town from both directions, and there's a proper railway station if you fancy arriving by train yourself. The Ffestiniog line connects directly to Blaenau Ffestiniog in the heart of Snowdonia, making this an excellent base for mountain exploration without the crowds of Betws-y-Coed.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for dinner, but far enough out to wake up to mountain views. Plus, having Black Rock Sands on your doorstep means the kids can burn off energy while you plan tomorrow's railway adventure.