Pen y Bwlch Gwyn

The walk up to Pen y Bwlch Gwyn is what sells this one - not the summit itself, though the views across Gwynedd are solid enough. You're looking at a proper fell climb from near Bala, the kind where your legs remind you they exist about halfway up. The peak sits at just over 2,300 feet, which means you get genuine altitude without needing a full expedition's worth of kit.

What makes it work is the approach. The terrain varies enough to keep you engaged - moorland gives way to rockier sections, and on a clear day you can see right across to the mountains beyond. On a murky afternoon, mind you, you're walking into cloud and trusting your compass. Either way has its appeal.

Walkers will get the most from this. It's not a casual stroll - allow three to four hours for the round trip depending on fitness - but it rewards effort with proper isolation and views that don't feel crowded. Families with younger kids might find it a stretch; those with teenagers keen on a challenge will enjoy it.

The nearest base is Bala, a solid little market town, though Tyn Cornel Camping sits just 2.4 miles out if you want to make a long weekend of it. That location puts you within reach of other Snowdonia walks, so you could stack this with a handful of other peaks if the weather holds. There's no facility at the summit itself - bring water and something to eat. Best tackled in decent visibility; a misty day here is properly atmospheric but requires navigation sense.