Caersws

Rolling hills stretch in every direction from this unassuming market town that sits quietly in the Severn Valley. Caersws might not grab headlines, but it serves as a proper base for those wanting to tackle the surrounding peaks without the tourist crowds that plague Snowdonia.

The landscape here is all about gentle walking rather than serious mountaineering. Yr Allt and Garn Fach offer cracking views across mid-Wales without breaking a sweat, while the more ambitious can head for Penstrowed Hill or Crugynnau. What strikes you most is the silence - these hills see more sheep than hikers.

Wilderness Brewery has put the town on the map for craft beer enthusiasts, though you'll need to book ahead as word has spread beyond the valley. The brewery sits in converted farm buildings and does tours most weekends. For something completely different, the Gorsedd Circle Centre Stone gallery showcases local artists in a space that feels more Cardiff than rural Powys.

Forested areas like Pen-y-banc and Blackhill Wood provide decent walking when the weather turns, though the paths can get boggy after rain. Treahfren Orchard offers apple picking in autumn if you're that way inclined.

Getting here requires a bit of planning - Newtown is your nearest proper town with train links, about 15 minutes by car. The A470 runs right through Caersws, making it accessible enough for a long weekend.

Staying at one of the touring parks nearby makes perfect sense. You're central enough to reach the coast at Aberystwyth in an hour, yet surrounded by walking country that rarely sees crowds. Mid-week, you might have entire hilltops to yourself.