Penbryn Beach, Cardigan, Wales

Gentle waves breaking on to the sandy beach, viewed from the bracken-covered dunes at Penbryn, Ceredigion, Wales

Almost a mile in length, the spacious, golden sands of Penbryn Beach at Llanerchaeron are a perfect location for stargazing and are reached through the woods of a fern-clad valley.

Dusk is also a great time to see seals and barn owls in the area, and if you're lucky you may even spot some of the resident bottlenose dolphins.

Terrain and safety: The walk to the beach is ¼ mile along a tarmac road, with a steep climb down to the beach and back up to the car park. The walk along the footpath in the woods is ½ mile with several steep steps and moderately rough terrain. The beach is over a mile long depending on the tide.

Location: National Trust car park at Llanborth Farm, Penbryn. Grid ref: SN295521.