Bàrr an Fhithich

The walk up Bàrr an Fhithick is a proper hill climb rather than a casual stroll, and you'll know about it by the time you reach the summit. At 884 metres, it's not mountaineering territory, but the gradient is relentless enough that you need to be reasonably fit and ready for a solid two to three hours of effort. What you get for that sweat is a commanding view across Argyll - lochs spreading out below, the distant peaks of the Arrochar Alps rising on the horizon, and on clear days, genuinely stunning reach across to the islands.

The ascent winds through woodland initially before opening onto moorland, and the path is fairly well-defined if sometimes boggy underfoot. Bring proper boots and waterproof kit - this is Highland weather, and it can turn in minutes. The name translates as "Hill of the Raven," though you're more likely to spot golden eagles if you're lucky.

This is genuinely for walkers rather than casual visitors. You won't find benches or visitor facilities at the top, just raw landscape and that earned satisfaction of height. It works brilliantly as part of a longer Argyll walking trip, especially based at The Pod Over By or Lochgilphead Caravan Park just a few miles south near the town. Most people allow a full morning or afternoon, and timing it for midweek keeps the summit properly quiet. Winter ascents are serious business - stick to summer and early autumn unless you're properly equipped.