Bàrr Dubh

The walk up Bàrr Dubh demands respect. This isn't a gentle afternoon stroll from Oban - it's a proper hill that rewards you with views across the Firth of Lorn and towards the islands. The route climbs steeply through woodland before opening out to moorland, and the final push to the summit leaves you genuinely breathless, both from exertion and the vista.

What you get at the top is straightforward: a panoramic sweep of water, rock and distant mountains. On a clear day you can see Mull and Lismore across the water. On a grey one, it's honestly a bit grim up there - exposed and windswept. Allow two to three hours for the round trip depending on your pace and fitness.

This is a walker's mountain, full stop. Not one for families with young children or anyone after an easy summit. The path is unrelenting and there's exposure in places. But if you're fit and the weather's decent, it's a cracking day out that doesn't require technical climbing skills.

Based near Oban, you could pair it with stays at Oban Holiday Park or Tanunda Pods, both within a few miles. It's the sort of walk that sits well with a week exploring Argyll's bigger peaks and lochs. Go early to avoid the afternoon cloud, and bring proper waterproofs - this is west coast Scotland, and weather changes fast.