Pen y Ddinas

The walk up Pen y Ddinas from Llanwrtyd Wells is proper steep in places, but the payoff is worth the huffing and puffing. You're looking at a 1,200-foot peak that gives you command of the Towy Valley - the views stretch for miles across Mid Wales, rolling green and honest, nothing fancy about it. The Iron Age fort remains at the summit are the real draw for history types; you can still make out the ramparts if you know what you're looking at, though there's not much interpretation on site. Most walkers allow two to three hours for the round trip, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. Go early if you can - the afternoon clouds roll in quickly up here, and you'll lose the vista. It's free to access, which helps sweeten the deal. The climb itself is manageable for reasonably fit families, though younger kids might need encouraging near the steeper sections. The moorland terrain is exposed, so wind can be a proper nuisance, even when it's calm below. If you're staying at Welsh Glamping or Riverside Caravan & Camping Park - both just a few miles away - this makes an excellent half-day outing that doesn't require driving far. The neighbouring Llanwrtyd Wells is worth a poke around for its independent cafes before or after. Real Wales, this - no crowds, no gift shops, just a hill with history and a decent view.