Llyn Eiddwen

The walk down to Llyn Eiddwen is half the appeal. This small reservoir sits tucked into the Ceredigion countryside about four miles from Llanon, and getting there means leaving the car behind and actually using your legs - something that filters out the casual day-trippers. The lake itself is modest in size but proper pretty, ringed by woodland that makes it feel more remote than it actually is. On a clear day the water reflects the surrounding hills with enough drama to justify the trek.

It's genuinely a spot for walkers rather than car-park visitors. Count on a decent walk in either direction, so bring proper boots and weather-appropriate kit. There's nothing commercial here - no café, no facilities, no entrance fee. Just you, the water, and a decent stretch of Ceredigion air. That's either exactly what you want or entirely the wrong kind of boring, depending on your approach to a day out.

If you're staying at any of the caravan parks in the area - Woodlands in Llanon is closest at six miles - this makes a cracking half or full day excursion. Walkers will get proper value from it. Families with younger kids might find the approach a bit much; the payoff is a lake, not a theme park. History buffs won't find much to investigate. But if you're after a genuine bit of Wales away from the crowds, and you're willing to earn it with your boots, Llyn Eiddwen delivers.