Blaen Pathiog

The walk up Blaen Pathiog doesn't prepare you for how exposed it gets near the top. This peak rises above Llanidloes in the heart of Powys, and the climb rewards with views that stretch across Mid Wales - proper windswept moorland, the kind of landscape that makes you understand why people bother with hiking boots.

It's a straightforward ascent rather than a scramble, manageable for reasonably fit walkers but don't underestimate the exposure on the ridge. The actual climb takes around two hours depending on your pace and exactly where you start from, though locals vary on the best route. You'll see red kites if you're lucky - they're common in this part of Wales - and the moorland flora changes seasonally. Spring's green, autumn's gold, winter's brutal.

Families with young children might find it a slog, but confident hill walkers will get genuine satisfaction from it. There's no fee and no facilities on the mountain itself, so bring water and something to eat. The weather can change fast up here, so check the forecast before setting out.

The proximity to Ty Llewelyn, Clywedog Riverside and Red Kite makes it ideal as a day walk from any of the nearby parks. It's the sort of walk that justifies a camping trip to Llanidloes - not a famous peak, but honest terrain that doesn't apologise for being a bit wild.