Yr Wyddfa

At 1,085 metres, Yr Wyddfa - or Snowdon as the English call it - dominates the skyline above Caernarfon and commands respect from anyone foolish enough to underestimate it. The mountain itself is the draw, and getting to the summit is why you're here. On a clear day, you'll see across to the Irish coast; on a wet Tuesday in August, you'll see your boots.

There are six routes up, ranging from the gentle Llanberis Path (an old slate quarry track, basically a motorway for feet) to the Snowdon Ranger Path, which is steeper and far less crowded. Most walkers allow four to six hours return depending on fitness and which path they've chosen. The Cog Railway runs from the Llanberis base station if your knees aren't up to it, though it often books solid in summer.

This is serious territory for experienced hikers, but frankly, weekend warriors from the lower slopes find it manageable too. Weather changes fast up here - what's blue skies at 300 metres can turn foul quickly. Bring a windproof and proper boots.

If you're camping in the area - Llanberis Touring Park sits just four miles away, with Beddgelert Campsite and Llyn Gwynant Campsite offering good bases nearer the mountain itself - Snowdon makes an excellent long day out. It's free to walk, though parking near the popular routes fills early. Start before 8am if you want a spot.