Craig y Bychau

The walk up Craig y Bychau hits different when you realize you're climbing one of the proper viewpoints overlooking the Bala Lake area. It's not a massive undertaking - more of a solid leg-stretcher than a full day's expedition - and once you reach the summit, the reward is genuine. You get those long views across the water towards the surrounding hills, and on a clear day it's the sort of vista that makes you understand why people bother with walking boots.

This one appeals most to walkers who want something achievable without needing to start at dawn. Families with reasonably fit kids will manage it fine, though anyone expecting a gentle stroll should probably look elsewhere. The route itself is straightforward enough, but there's a bit of steep going.

You'll need to allow a couple of hours, depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top taking photos. Head up in the morning if possible - afternoon light gets tricky, and you don't want to descend in the gloom.

If you're based at Tyn Cornel Camping - which is a solid base just down the road - Craig y Bychau makes for a natural half-day activity. It sits nicely alongside exploring Bala itself, which has its own appeal if you're after a walking-focused holiday in this part of Gwynedd. The peak won't take you long enough to be the day's only outing, so think of it as part of a wider itinerary rather than a standalone destination.