Cribau

The walk up Cribau rewards you with one of those views that actually lives up to the effort. Starting from near Blaenau Ffestiniog, you're climbing into proper mountain territory - nothing too technical, but steep enough that you'll feel it in your legs. The peak itself sits at just over 600 metres, and on a clear day you get sweeping views across the slate valleys and towards Snowdonia's higher peaks. It's the kind of walk that takes between two to three hours depending on your pace and how many times you stop to catch your breath.

Historically this area is thick with slate mining heritage, and you'll spot remnants of old workings as you climb. It's not a walk for the distracted - you need decent boots and some navigation sense, especially if cloud rolls in. The reward is solitude. Unlike the honeypot peaks nearby, Cribau sees far fewer walkers, which means you actually feel like you've discovered something.

Families with capable kids aged eight and up will manage it fine. Younger ones might struggle with the constant gradient. You're looking at a half-day commitment minimum, so factor that into your park schedule. Llechwedd Glamping is practically on your doorstep at Plas Weunydd if you're after somewhere to crash afterwards, though Llyn Gwynant Campsite and Bryn Dinas Pods both work well if you're basing yourself slightly further out and want to explore the wider area. There's no facilities at the peak itself, so bring water and something to eat.