Cribin Fach

Getting up Cribin Fach from Dolgellau is a proper hill walk rather than a scramble, and honestly, it's one of those peaks that rewards you without demanding mountaineer credentials. You're looking at a straightforward ascent through moorland and bracken, with the views getting better the higher you climb. On a clear day the panorama across Snowdonia is genuinely impressive - you can pick out the bigger peaks and trace the valleys below.

The walk itself takes a couple of hours up and down depending on your pace and fitness. It's not technical, but it's steep enough in places that you'll feel you've earned the summit. Walkers will absolutely get the most from this one; families with older kids who are used to hills will manage fine, though younger children might find the ascent a slog.

There's no admission fee - it's proper mountain access - but you'll need decent boots and should check the weather before setting out. The terrain can get boggy and visibility drops quickly if cloud rolls in. Timing-wise, go early to avoid the afternoon mist that often creeps up the valleys.

If you're staying at Llwyn yr Helm or Torrent Walk, this sits perfectly into a long weekend of peak bagging in the area. It's less crowded than the Snowdon trails, which makes it worth the detour. Pack a flask and you've got a proper day out.