Moel-Y-Gest

Four hundred and sixty-two metres might not sound like much, but this compact peak packs a proper punch when it comes to views. The walk up takes about 45 minutes from Porthmadog, winding through woodland before opening onto grassy slopes that reveal why locals rate this as one of Snowdonia's finest viewpoints.

From the summit cairn, the panorama stretches from Snowdon itself across to Cardigan Bay, with the Llŷn Peninsula rolling away to the south. On clear days, you can spot Bardsey Island shimmering on the horizon. The eastern aspect takes in the dramatic peaks around Blaenau Ffestiniog - a cracking reward for relatively little effort.

Families with older children will find this manageable, though the final scramble over rocks might challenge smaller legs. Serious walkers often dismiss it as too easy, but they're missing the point. Sometimes the best views come without the slog.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip, longer if you fancy a proper picnic at the top. Early morning visits dodge the crowds and catch the best light over the estuary. The proximity to holiday parks like Haven Greenacres and Garreg Goch makes this an ideal day out for families staying in the Porthmadog area - close enough to nip back for lunch if needed.