Moel-yr-hydd

The walk up Moel-yr-hydd from Blaenau Ffestiniog is straightforward without being dull - a proper hill rather than a mountain, which means you get the views without needing a head for heights. The summit sits at 610 metres, and on a clear day you can see right across to Snowdon and down into the Ffestiniog Valley. It's the sort of place where the effort feels proportional to the reward.

Allow around two hours for a steady round trip, depending on your fitness. The path is well-trodden and mostly obvious, though it can get boggy after rain so decent boots matter. Families with older kids will manage this fine - younger ones might find it a bit of a slog, but there's nothing technical about it. Walkers doing a longer circuit through the area often link it with neighbouring peaks, which makes sense given how accessible it all is.

What works well is how it sits within the wider Ffestiniog hiking landscape. If you're camping at Llyn Gwynant Campsite or Llechwedd Glamping at Plas Weunydd, Moel-yr-hydd makes a perfect morning's work before heading down to explore the slate mines or the old railway. It's free to walk, obviously - no permits or fees. The views alone justify the trip, and unlike some Welsh peaks, you won't spend half the time queuing or navigating crowds. Early morning is best if you want clear skies.