Foel Goch

The walk up Foel Goch from Machynlleth takes you into proper mid-Wales terrain - moorland, rough grass, and that particular brand of Welsh drizzle that makes everything look grey and dramatic at once. It's not a long push, but it's relentless enough that you'll feel your legs working. The summit sits at around 2,000 feet, which means the views across Cardigan Bay and towards Snowdonia can be genuinely stunning on a clear day. Honestly, though? Visibility is a bit of a lottery here.

Most hikers and walkers will get the real value out of this one. Families with young kids might find it a slog - it's steep in places and the reward is mostly a good view rather than a café or viewpoint with shelter. You're looking at a couple of hours round trip if you're moving at a steady pace. The terrain is boggy in spots, so proper walking boots aren't optional.

Foel Goch works brilliantly as a morning or afternoon excursion if you're based at one of the nearby caravan parks. Cambrian Coast Holiday Park and Gwerniago Campsite are both within easy driving distance and would give you proper access to the Machynlleth area. The peak sits close enough to town that you won't waste half your day just getting there, but far enough out that you feel like you've actually gone somewhere. If the weather's reasonable and you've got a head for heights, it's worth the effort.