Hen Gaer

Standing at 295 metres above sea level, this modest hill fort offers surprisingly decent views across Cardigan Bay without the knee-knocking ascent you'd face on the bigger Welsh peaks. The walk up from Aberystwyth takes about an hour each way, following well-marked paths through bracken and rough grassland.

History buffs will appreciate the remnants of Iron Age earthworks at the summit, though frankly there's not much left to see beyond some grassy bumps and ditches. What makes the effort worthwhile is the panoramic sweep of coastline stretching north towards Borth and south to New Quay on clear days.

Families with older children who don't mind a proper walk will find this more manageable than Snowdonia's challenges, though toddlers will definitely struggle with the uneven terrain. The path can get boggy after rain, so decent boots are essential.

From any of the holiday parks around Clarach Bay or Aberystwyth, this makes a solid half-day expedition when the weather's playing ball. Early morning or late afternoon light shows off the coastline best, and you'll often have the summit to yourself outside summer weekends. Pack a flask and sandwiches - there's nowhere to buy refreshments once you leave town.