Craig Llanelltyd

The walk up Craig Llanelltyd from Dolgellau is one of those rewarding climbs that doesn't take all day but delivers proper views across the Mawddach estuary. It's not technically difficult - more a steep, steady pull through woodland that opens out onto moorland - but it's proper bracing work in places, especially if you're carrying kids or not used to hills.

You're looking at around two hours there and back from town, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. The payoff is genuinely good: clear days give you sightlines across to Cader Idris and down the valley towards the coast. On a grey afternoon I've done this and still had my money's worth, though fair warning - it can be bog-heavy after rain.

This works best for families with children old enough to manage a proper walk, or anyone using Dolgellau as a base who wants a half-day outing that doesn't require serious mountain experience. The peak itself is unremarkable - just moorland and stones - but the journey through those woods and the views from partway up are what you're really after.

Based near enough, Torrent Walk Campsite sits just 2 miles out, while Llwyn yr Helm and Graig Wen offer five-star spots if you want something more comfortable. All three put you within easy reach for an early start. Free to access, naturally - it's a Welsh hillside. Allow a full morning or afternoon rather than squeezing it in as a quick leg-stretch.