Drosgol

The walk up Drosgol from Aberystwyth is steep, relentless, and absolutely worth the effort. This isn't a gentle ramble - the path climbs hard through moorland until you're standing at 760 metres with views that stretch across Cardigan Bay and inland to the Cambrian Mountains. On a clear day you can see for miles. On a cloudy one, frankly, you're just groping about in mist.

It's a proper hill walk rather than a casual stroll, taking around two hours up and back depending on fitness. Most people tackle it from the town itself, parking near the coast and heading inland. The terrain underfoot is moorland - boggy in places, especially after rain - so decent boots matter more than trainers.

This appeals to serious walkers and anyone after a real sense of achievement without needing climbing gear or technical skill. Families with older kids who don't mind a slog will get something from it. Young children will struggle. If you're staying at Forester's Retreat Glamping or one of the nearby campsites like tyn ffordd fach or Aber Camping, it makes for a cracking half-day outing. The access is free and there's no faffing about with visitor centres or admission fees.

Weather dictates everything here. Go on a murky day and you're paying for the effort with nothing to show for it. Catch it on a decent afternoon and the views remind you why people bother with hills in the first place. Spring and early summer offer the best combination of decent weather and long daylight hours.