Càrn nam Bad

The walk up Càrn nam Bad is a proper hill, not a gentle stroll. At 2,571 feet, it commands respect from hikers heading into the Scottish Highlands around Beauly, and the ridge walk rewards effort with views that stretch across to the Moray Firth on a clear day.

The approach from Strathglass is the business end - steep in places, boggy in others, and you'll know you've earned the summit. The cairn itself is modest, but that's not the point. The real payoff is the panorama: Ben Wyvis dominating the skyline, the Great Glen stretching out below, and if you time it right, the light catches the water far enough away to make everything feel properly wild.

This one's for walkers who know what they're doing and don't mind a challenge. Families with young kids will find it tough going; plan three to four hours round trip and bring decent boots. The weather can turn fast up here, so morning starts are sensible.

It fits nicely with a stay at Cannich Woodland Camping, just four miles away, or the Glamping spot at Loch Ness if you want to push the boat out. You could do this as a day trip from either, though parking near the trailhead is limited and informal. Winter climbs are serious business - crampons and experience required.

Worth it? Absolutely, if you're into proper hill walking. If you want an easy afternoon with views, Cairngorms draws bigger crowds for good reason.