The dream beach overlooking the ‘last true wilderness’ you can reach by train from Birmingham

The high mountains of Rhinogydd are said to be “one of the last true wildernesses” in Wales, according to the Snowdonia National Park Authority. And you can get a dreamy view of this 2,000-metre span from Borth-y-Gest beach.

Set on the banks of the River Glaslyn, this quiet village is reached by a scenic wooded road from Porthmadog, overlooking the towering cliffs of Moel-y-Gest. Borth-y-Gest has a lovely Victorian charm with rows of Victorian houses and quaint cafes, shops and restaurants.

It’s the “truly spectacular” views that people love most, calling it “perhaps unmatched by any seaside village in Wales”, according to the Snowdonia Guide. From here you can also see the 13th century Harlech Castle.

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The sheltered bay can be a little muddy at times, but if you walk over the western headland you can discover some lovely sandy bays to have it all to yourself. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk up to the foothills of the Rhinog mountain range. The circular path through Graigddu Forest to Bwlch Drws Ardudwy is a moderate, family-friendly path full of rare wildlife.

There is much to discover in this area. Nearby is Black Rock Sands, a wide open beach with plenty of rock pools. Here you can drive right onto the beach, so it’s ideal for parents with pushchairs. You need to be aware of strong currents when swimming.

Porthmadog is also worth a visit. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, the colorful architecture resembles a traditional Italian village, with a central square and a Gothic pavilion. There is an entrance fee and no dogs are allowed.

You can also walk the Aberglaslyn Pass through the forest and along the raging rapids of the River Glaslyn to the village of Beddgelert. This tourist attraction is postcard pretty and famous for the story of Gelert, the faithful dog owned by Prince Llywelyn.

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How to get to Borth-y-Gest from Birmingham

It takes just under three hours to get to Borth-y-Gest from Birmingham, traffic permitting, via the M54. There is parking on the beach but it can be quite limited on busy days. Porthmadog is less than a mile’s walk so it may be best to park there and walk along the shore to Borth-y-Gest beach if you can’t get a space.

You can also take a direct train from Birmingham New Street to Porthmadog. It takes about five hours, but can be a more relaxing way to travel.