An Saig

An Saig rises sharply above the landscape near Taynuilt, a proper Argyll hill that demands respect rather than offering a casual stroll. This is peak-bagging territory - the sort of walk that rewards you with views across Loch Awe and beyond, assuming the weather cooperates, which in this part of Scotland is never guaranteed.

The ascent is steep enough that you'll know you've earned it. Most people allow two to three hours for a return trip, depending on fitness and how often you stop to catch your breath. The ground underfoot is rough and boggy in places - proper hill-walking boots rather than trainers are non-negotiable. Summer months are best; winter makes it unnecessarily gnarly.

This is very much a walkers' destination. If you're after a gentle amble with a gift shop at the top, you'll be disappointed. But if you actually want to climb something and see the Loch Awe country properly, it's worth the effort. Families with older kids who've done a few hills before will manage fine. Younger children might find the steep sections tedious.

There's no formal infrastructure - no facilities at the summit, no admission fee because there's nowhere to collect one. It's free in the way Scottish hills are free: you turn up, you climb, you deal with whatever the weather throws at you.

If you're camping at Loch Awe Camping Pods just down the road, An Saig makes a solid half-day outing. Combine it with exploring the loch itself and you've got a decent Argyll hillwalking break sorted.