Coed Cefn

The walk up Coed Cefn is a proper slog but worth every step if you're after genuine Mid Wales views without the crowds. It's not much of a destination in itself - just a wooded hillside that rises steeply from the Crickhowell area - but once you push through the tree line, the Brecon Beacons open up properly. On a clear day you're looking across serious mountain country; on a grey one, it's all atmospheric and moody, which is its own thing.

This suits walkers who don't mind a workout. It's not a casual stroll - the climb takes the best part of an hour depending on fitness and which path you take - but it's short enough that you're not committing to a full day expedition. Kids will find it demanding rather than fun, if I'm honest. The trees go on a bit, and there's not much to see until you break through, so younger ones might kick up a fuss.

Parking's the first puzzle. There's rough access near Crickhowell itself, though you'll need to work out exactly where locals tend to pull in. No visitor facilities, no café, nothing. Bring water. Cwmdu Campsite down the road makes a sensible base if you're doing a few days of local walking - it's well-reviewed and close enough that you're not burning petrol between walks.