Dunes on book's threatened list

The 2,000 hectares of sand dunes on Anglesey

A sand dune site on Anglesey is in a new guidebook of 500 places to visit before they disappear due to climate change and other threats.

Newborough Warren joins other sites including Hadrian's Wall and Battersea Power Station in Frommer's 500 Places To See Before They Disappear.

The book's co-author calls it a "chosen list of last-chance destinations" for eco-conscious travellers to enjoy.

But a wildlife expert said the sand dunes are well-equipped to survive.

Will Sanderson, from the Countryside Council for Wales and a former reserve manager at the site, said it was difficult to know exactly how the sand dunes at Newborough would be affected by climate change.

"The experts predict that by the end of this century there's going to be a half metre rise in sea level so will that affect Newborough? The answer's probably no, it won't.

Battersea Power Station is also picked as a place to visit

"We have a huge sand dune system about 2,000 hectares that rises from about sea level to about 40 metres at the back end of the system here by Newborough village.

"In fact, sand dune systems are very good at responding to change.

"They just roll back and roll forward so they will probably respond a lot better to rising sea levels than other fixed habitats."

According to the guidebook, more than 20 of Britain's best-loved landmarks, as well as lesser-known gems, merit a place in their collection.

Also included is the Italianate village of Portmeirion on the nearby Llyn Peninsula, famous as the setting of the 1960s' cult TV series, The Prisoner.

Global sites on the list include the pyramids of Giza, the Florida Everglades and the Dead Sea.