Moel Cryniarth

The walk up Moel Cryniarth from Bala is steep enough to make your thighs complain, but the payoff from the summit justifies every huffing breath. At 863 metres, it's not exactly a mountain - more a proper fell with attitude - and you'll find yourself scanning across Snowdonia's northern edge with the Bala Lake spread out below like a sheet of grey-green glass.

This isn't a casual stroll. Plan on two to three hours return from the base, depending on your fitness and how often you stop to admire the view (which you will). The terrain alternates between grassy slopes and rougher ground with loose stones underfoot - trainers work fine in dry conditions, but fell boots are wise. There's no café at the top or facilities to speak of, so bring water and something to eat.

Walkers and hill enthusiasts will get the most from this one. The views genuinely reward the effort, and you're far enough from the honey-pot peaks that you won't be queuing for summit selfies. Families with older children who can manage the climb will find it manageable; younger kids might lose patience on the ascent.

If you're staying at Tyn Cornel Camping just outside Bala, this makes an excellent morning or afternoon excursion - close enough to not waste half a day driving, challenging enough to feel like a proper outing. The mountain rarely gets rammed, even in summer. Go early if you want peace, and check the forecast first - the view disappears into cloud with depressing regularity.