Y Gyrn

The walk up Y Gyrn from Talsarnau takes you through proper Welsh hill country - nothing dramatic, but the kind of steady climbing that rewards you with genuine views across Snowdonia when you reach the top. It's a modest peak by Welsh standards, the sort of place where you won't fight crowds even in summer, which is refreshing.

You're looking at roughly two hours up and back depending on fitness. The path is clear enough if you know where you're going, though in mist it becomes more of a navigation exercise. Wear proper boots. Once up there, the panorama opens out nicely - you can see across to the Rhinogs and back towards the coast near Barmouth. On a clear day it's genuinely worth the effort.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. Families with young kids might find the climb a slog for what amounts to a ridge walk, and there's nothing at the summit itself - no cafe, no facilities. Go for the walk and the view, not for facilities. It costs nothing and you can start whenever suits you.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks nearby - Barcdy is closest at just over a mile away - Y Gyrn makes a solid half-day adventure. Pair it with Rhaeadr Nantcol Waterfalls further afield if you want to string a proper day together. The landscape around here rewards exploration on foot, and this peak gives you a proper feel for the terrain without requiring mountaineering skills.