Craig Gwladys Country Park

You climb through bracken and gorse to reach the summit of Craig Gwladys, and suddenly Swansea spreads out below you like someone's knocked over a tin of buildings across the valley floor. It's a proper vantage point - the kind of place where the effort of getting up there actually pays off.

This country park sits on high ground overlooking the city, giving you views that most of Swansea's seafront attractions won't manage. The walk itself is straightforward enough, nothing too technical, though the ground can be boggy depending on when you've visited. On clear days you can see right across the bay. On grey ones, which is most of them in Wales, you get something more atmospheric.

Walkers will find it rewarding - the approach involves proper climbing rather than a stroll, so it suits anyone who wants to stretch their legs without committing to an all-day expedition. Families with energetic kids will do well here too, though toddlers might struggle with the terrain. History enthusiasts should note the area's industrial past; the views take in what was once the backbone of Welsh heavy industry.

Head out from central Swansea and you're within reasonable distance of both Riverside Holiday Park and SWDA Riverside if you're basing yourself in the area. Admission is free, and there's no strict opening hours to worry about - it's open access parkland. Allow about ninety minutes to reach the summit and have a poke around, longer if you want to explore the wider country park properly. Best done on a morning when visibility is decent and you've got energy.