Y Garn

This angular pyramid of rock rises sharply from the Ogwen Valley, offering one of the more challenging but rewarding hikes in the Snowdonia range. Y Garn stands at 947 metres and demands proper hill walking experience - the path up from Ogwen Cottage is steep and loose in places, but the summit views across to Snowdon and down the length of Nant Ffrancon are properly spectacular.

Serious walkers will love this one. The ascent takes about two hours if you're reasonably fit, though the final scramble requires a bit of nerve. Families with young children should probably look elsewhere - this isn't a gentle ramble.

From the top on a clear day, you can see right across the Irish Sea to Ireland itself. The ridge walk to neighbouring Foel-goch adds another hour but extends those views magnificently. Weather changes fast up here, so pack layers and waterproofs even if it looks fine down in Bangor.

For those staying at one of the campsites around Llanberis, Y Garn makes a cracking day out combined with a visit to Ogwen Lake at the base. The mountain feels wilder and less crowded than some of Snowdonia's bigger names, which is half its appeal. Allow a full day including the drive from holiday parks like Snowdon View or Llanberis Touring Park.