Fron Fawr

The walk up Fron Fawr doesn't grab you immediately. It's a steady climb from Dolgellau, nothing dramatic in the opening stages, but that's precisely what makes it work. The peak itself, all 793 metres of it, rewards you with proper views across the Cader Idris range and down towards the coast on a clear day.

This is genuine fell-walking territory, not a tourist honeypot. You're looking at around two hours up, longer if you take the scenic route via the old quarries. The terrain is rough in places - good boots essential - but it never feels dangerous or overly technical. Families with older kids will manage fine; younger ones might find the legs a bit tired by the summit.

What strikes you most is how few people you'll see up there. Compare that to Snowdon on a summer Saturday and you understand the appeal immediately. The moorland is exposed, so wind can bite, and weather rolls in fast. Go early, go in decent conditions, and you'll have the place almost to yourself.

If you're based at Torrent Walk Campsite or Llwyn yr Helm, both just a few miles out, Fron Fawr fits perfectly into a wider walking trip around the area. It's not a full day commitment like Cader Idris, but it's proper mountain time, not a amble round a country park. Free to visit, free to park at the trailhead. Allow a good three hours return if you're not rushing.