Ard Bhatan

Dense Scots pine and oak woodland cloaks this hillside just outside Oban, creating proper forest walking without the manicured feel of some forestry plantations. The paths wind uphill through genuine native woodland - not the regimented rows of conifers you'll find elsewhere in Argyll.

Families with older children will find the terrain manageable, though pushchairs are definitely out of the question on the steeper sections. Dog walkers have made this their regular haunt, and you'll understand why once you're up among the trees. The canopy filters the light beautifully on overcast Highland days.

Expect to spend a good hour or two if you're taking it seriously, though you could easily turn back after 30 minutes if the legs aren't up to it. No facilities here - this is proper countryside walking rather than a visitor attraction.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks like Tralee Bay Holidays or Highfield Holidays puts you within minutes of the forest entrance. It makes for a decent morning stretch before heading into Oban for lunch, or an evening constitutional after a day exploring the wider Argyll coastline. The proximity to so many caravan sites means it can get busy with dog walkers during peak holiday periods.