Creag Tharsuinn

The walk up Creag Tharsuinn doesn't take long - you're looking at a couple of hours return from Cairndow - but the effort pays off with proper views across Loch Eck and the surrounding hills. It's a straightforward ascent, nothing technical, which makes it ideal for anyone staying at Loch Eck Caravan Park or Stratheck Holiday Park who fancies getting properly outdoors without needing specialist kit.

The peak itself sits at a decent height without being brutal, so families with older kids will manage fine. Younger ones might find the trudge a bit much, though the loch views halfway up usually keep them motivated. On a clear day you can see right down towards Dunoon, and the whole Cowal Peninsula spreads out below you.

There's nothing mystical about it - no café, no facilities, just a hill with a decent vantage point. You'll need proper walking boots because the ground gets boggy in places, especially after rain. Start early if the weather's decent; Scottish weather moves fast and cloud cover kills the whole point of coming up here.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks dotting the area - Stucreoch, Strathlachlan, or The Secret Glen aren't far either - this makes a solid half-day outing that doesn't require driving all over the place. Pair it with a stroll around Loch Eck itself and you've got a proper day sorted. The climb's steep enough to feel like you've earned a decent meal afterwards.