Mynydd Allt Tir Fach

The walk up Mynydd Allt Tir Fach doesn't take long, but it rewards you with proper views across the Monmouthshire countryside. From Chepstow, it's a straightforward climb to this modest peak - nothing that'll have you gasping for breath, but enough to feel like you've earned the vista at the top.

What you get is a sweeping panorama toward the Forest of Dean and across to the Brecon Beacons on a clear day. The sort of view that makes sense once you're standing there looking out. On the way up you'll pass through decent woodland and open moorland - it's the walk itself that's the draw here, not some dramatic summit shelter or trig point fanfare.

This is walker territory. Families with older kids will manage it fine; young ones might find it a bit of a slog depending on their legs. History types won't find much to examine - it's purely about the landscape and the walk. Allow an hour or so round trip, longer if you're dawdling with a camera.

If you're staying at Penhein Glamping just down the road, this makes a cracking morning outing before breakfast. It's the sort of walk that clears your head without eating up your whole day. Weather matters though - grey days rob it of most of its appeal, so time it right. Free to access, naturally.