Llyn Ystumllyn

The lake sits just inland from Porthmadog, a proper freshwater reservoir that's become something of a secret among walkers and bird-watchers in North Wales. It's not dramatic like some of the mountain lakes further up the valleys, but there's something honest about it - the water reflects whatever the sky's doing, and on a decent day you get views across toward the Snowdonia peaks without the crowds you'd find at the more famous spots.

You can walk the perimeter path, which takes a decent couple of hours depending on your pace and how often you stop to look at things. The walk itself is straightforward, nothing too steep, which makes it accessible for families or anyone who fancies a gentle morning out. Birdwatchers take this seriously - cormorants, grebes, and various ducks are regular sightings, especially outside summer. Bring binoculars if that's your thing.

There's no entrance fee or visitor centre, so it's simply a matter of turning up and getting on with it. The paths are public access, though it's worth checking conditions in winter when they can get boggy. Allow two to three hours for a full circuit, or you can just walk partway if time's tight.

If you're staying at Haven Hafan y Môr just down the road, this works nicely as a morning activity before heading to the coast. It's the kind of place that won't make your holiday highlight reel, but it fills a gap between the big attractions well enough.