Llyn Uchaf

The walk up to Llyn Uchaf rewards you with one of those proper mountain lake views that makes the steep climb feel justified. It's a glacial lake trapped high in the Ceredigion hills, about forty minutes' hike from the car park, and the water reflects the surrounding moorland in that particular shade of grey-blue you only get in Welsh uplands. The path itself is straightforward but relentless - bring decent boots and expect muddy sections even after dry weather.

This is walkers' territory, no question. The lake itself is small enough that you won't spend hours here, but the moorland setting and the sense of being properly away from things make it worth the effort. On a clear day you can see across to Cadair Idris. In mist it's moody and atmospheric. Families with teenagers used to hiking would manage it fine; younger kids might find the climb tedious.

There's no café or facilities up there, so bring everything with you - a flask and a sandwich are essentials. The walk is free, naturally. Allow three hours total if you're not a fast walker. Early morning is best to avoid the handful of others who know about the place.

Staying at one of the nearby caravan parks around Aberystwyth - Woodlands, Tyn Ffordd Fach, or Glangwy Farm are all within six miles - gives you the perfect base for this. It's the kind of walk you'd pair with a coastal day in Aberystwyth itself, not something that fills a full afternoon on its own.