Llyn Anafon

A small mountain lake tucked into the hills above Llanfairfechan, Llyn Anafon sits quietly at around 300 metres elevation. It's not a dramatic reservoir or a famous beauty spot - just a genuine upland pool where the water reflects the Snowdonian peaks, and sheep graze the slopes around it. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from the village, following a path through woodland that opens onto moorland. You'll find it properly peaceful, the kind of place where you hear water, wind, and not much else.

Walkers get the most from this. It's not a destination for families wanting easy access or those after famous photo opportunities - the path requires reasonable fitness and good boots. But if you like the rawness of North Welsh hills without queuing for Snowdon, this does the job. The views back towards the coast are worth the climb, and on a clear day you can pick out the Conwy Valley snaking away below.

There's no visitor centre, no facilities, no entrance fee. Just go. The best light is usually late afternoon, when the sun catches the water properly. Most people allow an hour each way, possibly longer if conditions are boggy.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Three Streams Glamping sits just 2.5 miles away, while Erw Glas and Ogwen Bank are within five miles - this makes a cracking half-day outing. It complements a broader walk around the Conwy Valley nicely, though it's definitely for those after genuine solitude rather than tourist attractions.