Pwllheli

The Welsh railway arrived here in 1867, and Pwllheli still feels like a proper seaside terminus - the sort of place where the train line simply runs out of Wales to explore. This Llŷn Peninsula town sits at the southern edge of Cardigan Bay, where Victorian holidaymakers first discovered the long arc of sand that still draws families today.

The beach stretches for miles in both directions. Proper golden sand, not shingle, with views across to Snowdonia's peaks on clear days. The town itself has kept its traditional Welsh character despite the summer crowds - slate-roofed terraces climbing back from the seafront, independent shops that haven't been swallowed by chains.

Glasfryn Parc offers adventure activities just outside town if the beach loses its appeal. Meanwhile, Snowdonia Attractions puts you within striking distance of Wales's most dramatic mountain scenery. The older corners of Pwllheli reveal themselves in places like Capel Pencaenewydd, where Welsh chapel architecture tells stories of the community's deep roots.

Getting here couldn't be simpler - the railway from Machynlleth cuts right through Snowdonia National Park before depositing you practically on the beach. From Cardiff or Chester, it's a scenic four-hour journey that beats any motorway slog.

Staying at one of the holiday parks scattered around Pwllheli gives you the best of both worlds: easy beach access when the mood strikes, plus a base for exploring the wild Llŷn Peninsula. Haven Hafan y Môr Holiday Park sits right by those famous sands, while inland options like Gimblet Rock Holiday Park offer more shelter when Atlantic weather rolls in.