Castell-prin

The walk up Castell-prin rewards you with proper views across the Wye Valley - on a clear day you can see right into England. It's a modest peak, mind you, nothing dramatic, but that's precisely why it works. The ascent from Chepstow takes about ninety minutes if you're reasonably fit, and the path climbs steadily through woodland before opening onto moorland at the top.

What you're actually standing on is an Iron Age hill fort, though you won't find much in the way of ruins. The earthworks are there if you know where to look - gentle ridges in the turf that once would have held wooden palisades. History buffs will find it interesting enough; casual walkers will mainly be chuffed with the vistas.

This one's best suited to people who've already done the bigger South Wales peaks and fancy something less crowded. Kids might find the climb a bit of a slog without much to show for it at the summit - there's no café, no shelter, just wind and space. That said, if you're staying at Penhein Glamping nearby, it's an excellent morning mission before breakfast.

Go early if possible, especially in winter when visibility drops. The moorland can feel exposed in poor weather, so check the forecast. Admission's free, obviously - it's an open hillside. Allow three hours for a round trip including a decent stop at the top to catch your breath and appreciate what you've earned.