Powys is the largest county in Wales and one of the most thinly populated, with huge areas of open hills, reservoirs and river valleys. It covers much of central and mid Wales, from the borders with England to the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia), and is a good choice for walkers who want space and quiet.

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons). The national park takes in the southern part of Powys. Pen y Fan, at 886 metres, is the highest peak in southern Britain, and Brecon is the main base, with the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and the Taff Trail close by. Crickhowell lies below Table Mountain and Crug Hywel, and the Black Mountains stretch east towards Hay-on-Wye, the famous book town.

Mid Wales. Rhayader is the gateway to the Elan Valley, with its reservoirs, dams and car-free trails. Llandrindod Wells, a Victorian spa town, and Builth Wells, on the Wye, are good bases for the quieter hills and river valleys. Machynlleth and Llanidloes sit on the edge of the Cambrian Mountains.

The border. Offa’s Dyke Path runs through Knighton, Montgomery and Welshpool, and Glyndŵr’s Way crosses the county between Knighton and Welshpool. Presteigne, Newtown and Montgomery all have historic centres and easy walks close by.

Weather on the high ground can change quickly and many hill paths are remote, so carry a map, waterproofs and warm layers.