Chwarel Mawr

The climb up Chwarel Mawr is steep, relentless, and absolutely worth doing. This peak sits inland from Aberystwyth, rising above the Ceredigion landscape with the kind of views that remind you why walking in Wales actually matters. From the top, you get proper 360-degree stuff - the coast sprawling out behind you, the Cambrians rolling away in every direction, and on a clear day, the ridges beyond Plynlimon catching the light.

It's a straightforward walk with no mucking about. Allow two hours there and back, depending on fitness. The path is clear enough, though it gets boggy in places, so decent boots aren't optional. This is one for walkers rather than families with small kids - there's no visitor centre, no facilities, nothing but the hill and the view. That's precisely what makes it good.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Brynllwyd Glamping or Woodlands Caravan Park are both excellent and just a few miles away - it's the sort of half-day excursion that slots perfectly around a longer holiday. Aberystwyth itself is close by, so you've got that to fall back on if the weather turns. Go early to avoid the afternoon cloud rolling in. The views are the only reason to be here, so get them while you can.