Cefn-Cantref

The walk up Cefn-Cantref takes about ninety minutes from Brecon, and on a clear day you'll understand why people make the effort. At 886 metres, it's not the highest hill in the Brecon Beacons, but the views across the Black Mountains and toward Pen y Fan are genuinely impressive - proper panoramic stuff that makes your legs forget they're tired.

You'll need decent boots and an OS map or a downloaded offline route. The terrain is boggy in places and the path isn't always obvious, especially in mist, so don't assume it's a casual stroll. The summit itself is fairly stark - a trig point and not much else - but that's partly the appeal. No crowds, no cafe queue, just you and the view.

This one's for walkers who know what they're doing, really. Families with young kids will struggle with the distance and conditions. History buffs won't find much, and it's not a place to kill time - you're here for the walk and the vistas, nothing else.

Camp at Cefn Cantref Campsite on the doorstep, or base yourself at Pencelli Castle a couple of miles away if you want a bit more comfort. Either way, this works brilliantly as part of a longer Beacons circuit. Don't come expecting facilities or signage - just come prepared, come fit, and come when the weather forecast looks promising.