Capel Curig, Snowdonia National Park

Although it is only small, there are few better bases for hiking adventures in Britain, never mind just Eryri (Snowdonia), than Capel Curig. It is no surprise that Plas y Brenin, the national outdoor centre, is based here.

Just a short drive to the south west and you're into Snowdon territory, the famous horseshoe of peaks suddenly rising ahead as the road winds past Llynau Mymbyr. To the north west is arguably an even more spectacular sight, as Tryfan's gargantuan rocky spine rises from the roadside, balanced by the squat pyramid of Pen yr Ole Wen across the Ogwen Valley. Moel Siabod, a classic in its own right, can be ascended directly from the village.

There are numerous accommodation options and even a couple of gear shops. The Moel Siabod Cafe is a legendary establishment that serves food throughout the day.