Moel Fleiddiau

The walk up Moel Fleiddiau is short, sharp, and properly rewarding - you're looking at around an hour from the car park near Blaenau Ffestiniog, depending on fitness. The peak itself sits at 863 metres, which doesn't sound like much until you're halfway up and the gradient reminds you otherwise.

What you get for your effort is a genuine Welsh hill walk without the crowds you'd battle on Snowdon. The views sweep across Snowdonia's jumbled peaks - Cader Idris catches the eye on clear days, and the slate quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog sprawl below like a industrial scar that's oddly fascinating. The terrain is rough underfoot, boggy in places, so proper boots aren't optional.

This works best for walkers who actually enjoy a bit of graft. Families with young kids might find it tedious rather than thrilling. It's free, naturally - just park sensibly and go. Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best light and solitude.

If you're staying at one of the local campsites - Llyn Gwynant is closest at just over 2 miles - this makes a cracking afternoon excursion. Pair it with the slate mines and underground lake at Llechwedd, also near Blaenau Ffestiniog, and you've got a proper day in Wales sorted. Nothing fancy, nothing Instagram-bait. Just a hill that asks something of you and delivers views that feel honestly earned.