Bryniau Gleision

Two rounded summits rise from the rolling hills between Llanrwst and Colwyn Bay, offering surprisingly good views for what looks like a gentle walk from below. Bryniau Gleision - the 'blue hills' in Welsh - tops out at just over 400 metres, but the ascent rewards you with proper panoramas across the Conwy valley and out towards Anglesey on clear days.

The walk up isn't technically challenging, though it's longer than it appears. Expect a good two to three hours for the round trip from the nearest parking spots. Keen walkers will appreciate the variety of terrain - grassy slopes, rocky outcrops, and patches of heather that bloom purple in late summer. Families with older children (say 10 and up) should manage fine, but it's probably too much for little ones.

What makes this hill special is the sense of space. You're not fighting crowds like on Snowdon, and the 360-degree views from the twin peaks take in both coast and mountains. The nearby holiday parks around Colwyn Bay make this a decent day out if you're camping at places like Wern Farm or Plas Farm - close enough for a morning walk before the afternoon at the beach.