Penderyn Reservoir

The water stretches out grey and still, hemmed in by moorland that rolls away in every direction - Penderyn Reservoir is the kind of place you stumble upon rather than plan for, and that's rather the point. It's a proper working reservoir, not dressed up as a tourist attraction, which means you get the landscape without the crowds or the gift shop.

You can walk around sections of it, though the terrain is rough going in places - solid footwear essential. The views are genuinely good, especially if you time it right and catch the light across the water with the Brecon Beacons rising in the distance. It's the sort of spot where you might see a heron or buzzard, and the silence is thick enough to actually notice.

This one's for walkers rather than casual strollers, and families with older kids who won't complain about a proper trek. Don't expect facilities - there's no café, no visitor centre, no changing rooms. Bring your own supplies and make an afternoon of it. Free to access, though parking options are limited and you'll need to find a sensible spot on the minor roads nearby.

If you're based at Four Falls Glamping or Willow Springs Campsite, both just a few miles away, Penderyn makes a solid half-day excursion. It's worth the detour if you're walking this part of Powys anyway, but don't drag anyone here who needs entertainment - they need Neath's attractions instead.