Hir Ynys

Views from this 554-metre peak stretch across the Dwyryd estuary to Portmeirion and beyond to the Snowdonia massif - a proper payoff for what's actually quite a gentle ascent. Starting from lanes near Talsarnau, the walk up Hir Ynys takes about an hour through mixed woodland and rough grassland, with the path fairly obvious once you get your bearings.

Families with older children will manage this one fine, though the terrain gets a bit boggy in places after rain. The summit itself is marked by a small cairn and offers 360-degree views that take in Harlech Castle to the south and the Rhinogs to the east. On clear days, you can spot Cadair Idris lurking on the horizon.

What sets this hill apart from some of the more popular Snowdonia peaks is the peace and quiet - you're unlikely to encounter crowds, even on sunny weekends. The walk down takes you past some lovely old stone walls and through patches of ancient oak woodland that feels properly wild.

Worth combining with a trip to nearby Harlech or Portmeirion if you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Talsarnau. Haven Greenacres and the camping options near Black Rock Sands put you within easy reach for an afternoon adventure that won't exhaust the legs before tomorrow's beach day.