Mawddach Estuary, Mid-Wales

Fringed by forested hillsides and overlooked by the peaks of Snowdonia National Park, the setting for the wide waters of the 6-mile Mawddach Estuary in the heart of the Gwynedd countryside is pretty stunning. Starting out from the harbour at the seaside town of Barmouth, you’ll soon be marvelling at the impressive line of arches that make up Barmouth Bridge and the railway line that connects the town, and after taking in the spectacular views, you’ll eventually reach the sleepy village of Bontddu which played a significant role in the local gold rush of the late 1800s. From here it’s a short paddle with skyline views of Cadair Idris (one of Wales’ highest mountains) before you reach Penmaenpool and the George III Hotel which has been serving ale since 1650. Or if you prefer, you can do the route in reverse and finish at The Last Inn in Barmouth – an even older watering hole dating back to the 15th Century – making this route a pub-to-pub classic.