Castell

The walk up Castell from Aberystwyth is a proper lung-buster, but the 541-metre summit rewards you with views that stretch all the way across Cardigan Bay on a clear day. It's the sort of peak that looks modest on the map until you're halfway up and realising your calves have other opinions.

The route climbs steeply through bracken and rough grass - no fancy path, just boots and determination. Most people tackle it from the town side, and you'll pass through various woodland sections where the gradient eases slightly before kicking up again near the top. The actual summit is straightforward enough: a small cairn, decent visibility on most days, and that satisfying moment when Aberystwyth shrinks below you.

Walkers will get the most from this - it's a proper hill with work attached, not a casual stroll. Give yourself a good two hours minimum including the descent, which is trickier on the knees than the way up. Families with older kids who don't mind a bit of graft will find it manageable; younger ones might flag. There's no charge and no facilities at the top, so bring water.

If you're based at Gwerniago Campsite just up the road, Castell makes an excellent half-day outing when the weather's cooperating. The views alone justify the effort, though timing matters - afternoon light from the west can be stunning, but the clouds roll in fast here, so go early if you can.