Moel Derwydd

The walk up Moel Derwydd from Betws-y-Coed is steep, relentless, and absolutely brilliant. This isn't a gentle stroll - it's a proper calf-burner that climbs roughly 1,500 feet, but the payoff is a summit view that genuinely justifies every bit of huffing and puffing on the way up.

The mountain itself sits right on Conwy's doorstep, making it perfect for walkers wanting something more substantial than a riverside ramble but without the full commitment of tackling Snowdon. On a clear day you get panoramic views across the Conwy Valley and down towards the coast. When the weather's settled, you can make out the slate quarries scarring the hillside - which tells you something about the industrial heritage of this corner of Wales.

Allow three to four hours for the round trip, depending on your fitness. It's not technical walking, just honest uphill graft. Spring and autumn are ideal - summer gets busy with holiday makers, and winter can be muddy. There's no admission fee; you just park up near Betws-y-Coed and crack on.

For families, it's doable with teenagers who enjoy hiking, but younger kids will struggle with the gradient. History buffs might find the wider landscape more interesting than the peak itself - you're walking through old mining country. If you're staying at either Porth Eryri or Snowdonia Glamping (both cracking bases less than four miles away), this makes an excellent half-day activity that pairs well with exploring the Conwy Valley proper.