Pen Tir-Uchaf

The walk up Pen Tir-Uchaf rewards you with one of those views that makes you understand why people move to North Wales. It's a modest peak by Snowdonia standards, but what it lacks in height it makes up for in accessibility and the sheer breadth of landscape you can take in from the top.

From Porthmadog, it's a straightforward approach - nothing technical, no scrambling required. The climb takes about 45 minutes to an hour depending on pace and stops for photos, which you'll definitely want. On a clear day you're looking across Cardigan Bay towards the Llŷn Peninsula, with the mountains stacking up inland. Even when the cloud sits lower, there's something compelling about being up here with just the sound of the wind.

This is solid walker territory rather than a casual stroll. Families with older kids who don't mind a proper hike will get plenty out of it. Serious mountaineers might find it a bit tame, but that's not really the point. The point is the walk itself and that moment when you reach the top and can actually see where you are.

If you're based at one of the touring parks near Porthmadog - Black Rock Sands or Glan-Y-Môr are closest - it's an ideal half-day option. Pop up, take it in, be back for tea. No fees, no faff. Wear proper boots though. The ground can be boggy in places, and the grass conceals rocks that will twist an ankle if you're not careful.