Mynydd Caerau

The walk up Mynydd Caerau rewards you with views across the Neath Valley that genuinely take your breath away - though the climb itself will do that first. It's a proper Welsh mountain experience without needing specialist kit, rising to 293 metres and offering the kind of 360-degree panorama you'd expect from something twice the height.

What you're looking at from the top is industrial heritage meeting countryside. The view sweeps across Port Talbot's steelworks and the surrounding valleys, which sounds grim until you actually see it - there's something compelling about watching the landscape change from urban to rural as your eye travels outward. The peak itself has an Iron Age hillfort, though the earthworks are subtle if you don't know what you're looking for.

Walkers will find the ascent straightforward enough, taking roughly an hour from Port Talbot town centre. It's the sort of hill that appeals to families wanting something achievable or to anyone after a quick dose of elevation and space without committing to a full day on the Brecon Beacons. The paths are well-used and mostly clear, though muddy patches catch you out after rain.

If you're based at Willow Springs Campsite nearby, this makes an excellent morning outing before heading to bigger attractions in the area. It's free, naturally, and there's something satisfying about having proper mountain air and views on your doorstep without the drive. Go on a clear day - mist rolls in quickly and flattens the whole experience.