Cruach Fhiarach

The walk up Cruach Fhiarach from Arrochar is properly steep but rewards you with views across Loch Long that frankly justify the grind. It's one of those peaks that looks deceptively modest from the road but demands respect once you're actually on it - the ascent is relentless rather than technical, which means it suits determined walkers more than scramble enthusiasts.

You're looking at a solid two to three hours for the round trip depending on fitness. The path starts from the village itself, which is handy - no faffing about finding car parks. Families with older kids might enjoy it, but younger ones will likely hit the wall halfway up. History buffs won't find much at the summit itself, but the landscape tells its own story - this is proper Highland country, and the views down to the loch and across to Ben Arthur make the ache in your legs feel worth it.

What makes this particularly good for a park-based holiday is the location. You're minutes from Forest Holidays Ardgartan, a genuinely nice spot with decent facilities, or Drimsynie if you want something with more going on. The walk integrates nicely into a day exploring the Arrochar Alps - you could do this peak and still have energy for a lower-level walk or a splash about on the loch.

Go early if you can. The weather here turns on a sixpence, and you want that Loch Long view clear, not shrouded in cloud. Bring proper boots - it's boggy in places.