Maen Bras

The walk up Maen Bras isn't long, but it rewards you with proper views across Gwynedd that make the climb feel worthwhile. From Bala, it's a straightforward trek to this modest peak - nothing that'll leave you gasping, but the effort means something when you reach the top.

What you get is a vantage point over the surrounding valleys and hills, the kind of spot where the landscape opens up and you realise why people moved to North Wales in the first place. It's not dramatic like Snowdon, and that's rather the point. You'll likely have the summit to yourself, which beats queuing for photographs at more famous peaks.

This works best for walkers who know what they're after - those after an easy afternoon rather than a full expedition. Families with reasonably fit kids will manage it fine. History buffs won't find much to linger over, but the views themselves tell the story of the region's glaciated geography.

Allow an hour or two depending on your pace and how long you fancy stopping at the top. There's no visitor infrastructure, so bring water and something sensible to eat. Head up in decent weather; low cloud makes the whole thing rather pointless.

If you're based at Tyn Cornel Camping near Bala, Maen Bras sits nicely as a morning walk before exploring the wider area. It's the sort of climb that makes sense as part of a broader walking holiday rather than a standalone destination.