Ogmore Castle serves as an incredibly scenic starting point to a day’s ride, allowing you to set out from its small, free car park. You’ll often see horse riders fording the river, and it’s the perfect place to park up and prepare for the day. The castle is free and open to all, so it’s definitely worth a look.

It is important to check tide times before crossing the river, since Ogmore is subject to one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, and it can be quite surprising just how much the water level changes depending on the time of day, or even after heavy rainfall

Once you’ve crossed the river, follow the track to the next landmark; a spectacular swing bridge over to Merthyr Mawr. Turning right here, you’ll pass a church and follow the road to its end point at Candleston Castle, an overgrown ruin flush with atmosphere and history. There is a pay and display car park here, if you decide to use it as a base camp.

Now you will find yourself on the rim of the dunes and can follow the trail, taking in the flora and fauna that make dunes so unique and enticing. The trail will lead you past the dune and out to the other side to Tythegston, so it’s a lovely short route that lends itself to an afternoon’s slow ride, taking in the landscape and the fresh sea breeze.