Crimpiau

The walk up Crimpiau from Betws-y-Coed isn't long, but it's steep enough to earn respect. You're climbing maybe 300 metres, and the path doesn't mess about - it goes straight up through woodland before opening out onto moorland. The summit itself is modest, nothing dramatic, but the views sweep across the Conwy Valley with the bigger peaks beyond creating a proper skyline.

What makes it worth doing is the compact nature of the thing. Families with children who aren't quite ready for Snowdon will find this manageable - an hour's push to the top, another hour back down. The woodland section keeps things interesting, and there are moments where you can stop and catch your breath while looking back over Betws-y-Coed below. On a clear day the visibility is excellent.

There's nothing to pay or book. Just turn up and go. Best in dry weather because the upper stretch gets muddy when wet, and the descent can be slippery. Spring through autumn works well. Allow three hours total if you're not rushing.

It fits nicely into a longer walking holiday in the area. Maenan Abbey Caravan Park sits only five miles away, making it an easy morning outing before heading elsewhere. The surrounding terrain offers proper options for stronger walkers, but Crimpiau itself is the sort of warm-up that reminds you why you came to North Wales in the first place.