Dolgellau

Stone cottages huddle around a surprisingly grand market square, while the peaks of Snowdonia loom on all sides like ancient sentinels. Dolgellau feels proper Welsh - not the touristy kind you get on the coast, but the real deal where Welsh is still the first language in many shops and the mountains are taken seriously.

The town sits in the shadow of some cracking peaks. Clogau and Diffwys offer decent hikes for those who fancy a proper climb, while the gentler slopes of Y Figra suit families better. What makes this place special is the sheer number of summits within walking distance - Mynydd Cwm-mynach, Fegla Fawr, and Pen Rhiwerfa all beckon from different directions.

History buffs will love poking around the Figra Gold Mine and various disused mineshafts that dot the landscape. The Bryn Castell Hillfort shows just how long people have been drawn to these protective valleys. Less obvious but equally fascinating are the archaeological remains scattered across the surrounding hills.

Getting here is straightforward enough from the A470, and Morfa Mawddach station connects you to the lovely Cambrian Coast line. The town makes a brilliant base for exploring southern Snowdonia without the Betws-y-Coed crowds.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Coed y Brenin Forest Camp puts you right in walking distance of multiple peaks and gives you that proper mountain camping experience. The surrounding countryside is absolutely stunning - all rolling green valleys punctuated by dramatic rocky outcrops that catch the light beautifully on clear mornings.