Penardda

Standing at 623 metres above sea level, this Welsh peak delivers proper mountain views without the crowds that plague Snowdon. The climb from Llanrwst takes about two hours through mixed woodland and open moorland, with the final approach offering glimpses across the Conwy Valley that make the effort worthwhile.

Experienced walkers will appreciate the relatively quiet trails and the chance to bag a decent summit without fighting for photo spots. Families with older children might manage it, but this isn't a gentle afternoon stroll - the final section gets properly steep and can be boggy after rain.

Views from the top stretch across to Snowdonia's bigger names, making it a cracking spot for those who know their Welsh peaks. On clear days you can pick out Snowdon itself, though the real reward is the sense of having earned your summit the hard way.

The mountain sits conveniently close to several holiday parks around Llanrwst, including Maenan Abbey Caravan Park and Erw Glas Glamping, making it an excellent day trip for those staying in the Conwy Valley. Allow half a day including the drive from town, and check the weather - low cloud can roll in quickly and turn navigation tricky. Best tackled between April and October when the paths are at their driest.