Mynydd Llwyn-gwern

The walk up Mynydd Llwyn-gwern from Machynlleth takes you through proper Mid Wales moorland - the kind of place where you actually feel like you're getting somewhere. It's not a massive summit by any stretch, but that's rather the point. The peak itself opens up views across the Dyfi Valley that make the climb feel worthwhile, and on a clear day you can see right across to the Snowdonia massif in the distance.

This is walkers' territory, no question about it. The terrain is manageable enough for anyone with reasonable fitness, though the moorland paths can be boggy after rain, so come prepared. You're looking at a couple of hours up and down depending on your pace and exactly where you start from. The main appeal here isn't the destination so much as the walk itself - proper Welsh hill country without the tourist infrastructure of the bigger peaks.

If you're basing yourself at Gwerniago Campsite just down the road, this makes an excellent half-day outing. You could combine it with exploring Machynlleth itself, which has enough going on to fill an afternoon if you fancy a break from the hills. The campsite's close enough that you won't spend half your day driving, which is exactly what you want on a holiday.

Go early if you can. The crowds are non-existent compared to the honeypot peaks elsewhere in Wales, and the light in the morning makes those valley views far more dramatic.