Towns, Coastline & Countryside

Southern Carmarthenshire, SA16 0EJ One of Europe's greatest beaches, this eight-mile stretch of deep golden sand is a natural treasure that thrills in fair weather and foul. Magnificent bay views towards Tenby to the west and Gower to the east. Borders Pembrey Country Park. Go to website

Western Pembrokeshire, SA62 3UNOne of Wales' essential watering holes whether you're on foot tackling the Pembrokeshire Coast Patch or on a scenic driving tour. Pubs, cottages and shops nestle in a tiny, cinematic fishing harbour. Outstandingly romantic! Go to website

Western Pembrokeshire, SA62 3BJTake a boat trip from Martin's Haven to this stunningly picturesque micro-world with puffins, grey seals, guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, cormorants, shags and shearwaters. One of Britain's most celebrated seabird colonies. Go to website

A 12-mile hilltop drive between two wonderful stops – The Black Mountain Centre and The Red Lion Inn -  from Upper Brynamman (SA18 1BU) on the A4069 to Llangadog (SA19 9AA)Part of the world-famous Brecon Beacons National Park, the Black Mountain is the name given to an awe-inspiring area of high countryside which towers above the Towy Valley, Llandovery and Llandeilo.  Remote, powerful and atmospheric. Go to website Go to website

A 20-mile circular drive from the village of Rosebush (SA66 7QY) – take a good map and follow road signs to Greenway, Llanychaer, Dinas Cross, Newport, Cilgwyn, Brynberian, RosebushIt's thought that some of Stonehenge's remarkable stones were hauled there 180 miles from the Preseli Hills. Prehistoric remains dot the landscape. Don't miss the view from Carningli, a huge coastal panorama from east to west, Dinas Head to Newport Sands. Go to website

A winding 60-mile there-and-back road trip between two contrasting stops – the Carmarthenshire County Museum (SA31 2JG) and the Royal Oak Inn (SA20 0NY) - from Abergwili to Rhandirmwyn.  The Towy river valley runs south westwards from the Cambrian Mountains to Carmarthen Bay. It's beautifully preserved ancient towns include Llandeilo and Llandovery. Its greenery, hillsides and riverbanks are truly memorable. Go to website Go to website

Eastern CarmarthenshireSt Teilo established a monastic community where Llandeilo now stands. That was 1,500 years ago. These days, most visitors enjoy the town's super-stylish boutiques and tantalising opportunities to dine out and to enjoy a civilised tipple. Go to website

South PembrokeshireAn arts and crafts honey pot, Narberth thrives on its unique, individual shops specialising in exquisite art, food and fashion. Handy pubs, cafés and restaurants look towards the imposing structure Old Town Hall, complete with double external stairway. Go to website

South PembrokeshireThis medieval walled town dates back over 900 years and was the birthplace of Henry VII, founder of the Tudor dynasty.  The castle, one of the UK's most complete Norman defences, affords fine views of numerous fine old buildings. Go to website