Cairnagour Hill

The walk up Cairnagour Hill from Ballater is straightforward enough, though the Scottish weather has a habit of making even modest summits feel like proper expeditions. On a clear day - and you'll want to time it for one of those - the views across Deeside are genuinely worth the effort. It's not a massive peak, which is rather the point. You're looking at maybe two hours there and back from the carpark, depending on fitness and how often you stop to catch your breath.

This is hill-walking territory rather than a casual family stroll, though determined teenagers with decent boots will manage fine. The path is well-trodden and the ascent steady rather than vicious. Locals use it regularly, which says something about its accessibility. Come spring or autumn when the light sits lower and warmer - you'll see why people trek out here repeatedly.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Howe of Torbeg or Cairngorms Glamping are both close by - this makes a proper morning or early afternoon outing. Pair it with lunch back in Ballater afterwards and you've got a solid day sorted. The hill doesn't take long enough to eat up your entire schedule, which is rather useful if you're also exploring the broader Deeside area. Bring waterproofs regardless of the forecast. This is Scotland.