Picws Du

The walk up Picws Du isn't dramatic, but it's properly rewarding. This modest peak sits in the Black Mountains range - that's the eastern edge of the Brecon Beacons - and the climb from the valley floor takes about two hours depending on your pace and where you start. The views from the top sweep across rolling moorland toward the Valleys and, on a clear day, you can see well into England.

It's the kind of walk that suits people who want a proper leg-stretcher without needing rock climbing experience or a head for heights. Families with older children manage it fine. The terrain is open moorland rather than technical, though it can be boggy in wet weather and the wind picks up something fierce once you're above the shelter of the trees.

There's no visitor centre or facilities - you'll need to be self-sufficient. Park sensibly near the foot of the mountain and allow at least four hours for the round trip if you're not a quick walker. The nearest substantial town is Swansea, about 30 minutes away by car. If you're based at one of the local camping spots - Brecon Beacons Camping & Caravan Park sits just a few miles away - Picws Du makes for a solid morning's work before lunch. It fits neatly into a hiking holiday in the area. Don't expect solitude on weekends, but you'll find the mountain far less crowded than the honeypot peaks that draw coach parties.