Foel yr Erw

Standing at 1,975 feet above Porthmadog, Foel yr Erw delivers one of North Wales's most rewarding climbs for the effort required. The summit rewards walkers with sweeping views across Cardigan Bay and the Snowdonia peaks - on clear days you can spot Ireland's Wicklow Mountains shimmering on the horizon.

Climbing from the village of Llanfihangel-y-pennant takes about 90 minutes of steady walking, following well-marked paths through sheep pasture and heather moorland. The final push gets properly steep, but it's never technically difficult. Families with older children will manage it fine, though the little ones might struggle with the gradient.

What sets this peak apart from its busier neighbours is the solitude. While Snowdon heaves with crowds, Foel yr Erw offers genuine mountain peace. The views rival anything you'll get on the popular peaks, yet you'll likely have the summit to yourself.

Allow four hours for the full circular walk, including time to properly appreciate those views. Pack layers - the weather changes quickly up here, and the summit can be bitter even on warm days down in Porthmadog. If you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Black Rock Sands or Beddgelert, it makes a cracking day out that'll leave the kids properly tired for an early bedtime.