Bryniau Gleision

The walk up Bryniau Gleision isn't long, but it's proper steep. You're looking at a genuine lung-buster if you're not used to hill work, though the payoff is worth every huffed breath. From the summit you get views across the Brecon Beacons that'll make you understand why people move to Mid Wales and never leave - rolling moorland in every direction, with the Usk Valley dropping away beneath you.

This is walker territory, no question. If you're after an easy stroll with a café at the top, keep walking. But if you've got decent boots and don't mind climbing hard for 45 minutes or so, Bryniau Gleision rewards you with genuine solitude. Most people doing the Brecon area stick to Pen y Fan or Corn Du - the famous ones - which means you'll probably have this peak to yourself on a weekday.

It works brilliantly as part of a longer loop if you're based at Pencelli Castle Caravan & Camping Park, just five and a half miles away. Combine it with a walk through the lower ground and you've got a proper day out without the crowds you'd hit at the bigger Beacons peaks. Bring water, wear layers - the weather changes fast up here - and go on a clear day or you'll see nothing but cloud. Allow two hours for the walk itself, maybe three if you're slower or want time to sit at the top.