Coedty Reservoir

The water here is remarkably still on a calm day - Coedty Reservoir sits in the hills above Conwy, a proper mountain lake rather than some manicured tourist spot. You're looking at a working water supply for the area, which means it's refreshingly undeveloped. The walk around it takes you through moorland and conifer plantations, with views stretching back towards Conwy itself when the weather plays ball.

It's a solid choice if you're based at one of the caravan parks dotted nearby - Erw Glas and Maenan Abbey are both within a couple of miles, making it an easy morning's outing without needing to pile into the car again. Don't expect shops or cafes; bring a flask and some sandwiches. The walk itself is gentle rather than taxing, which suits families fine, though older children will get more from it than toddlers. Walkers and birdwatchers make better use of it than casual day-trippers after an hour's entertainment.

There's no admission charge that I'm aware of - it's one of those places you just turn up to. Allow two to three hours if you're doing the full loop, though you can potter about for as little or long as you fancy. The moorland setting feels distinctly Welsh without the crowds you'd hit at somewhere like Snowdon. In decent weather it's well worth the drive inland from Conwy town itself.