Cruach nan Cuilean

The walk up Cruach nan Cuilean isn't long, but it's properly steep in places and demands respect. This 370-metre peak sits above Tarbert on the Kintyre peninsula, and on a clear day the views south towards the Mull of Kintyre and across to Islay are exceptional - the kind that make you forget you've just huffed your way up a Scottish hillside.

Allow around two hours for the round trip if you're not rushing. The path starts from near Tarbert itself, so there's no awkward drive to a trailhead. It's a walkers' hill rather than a scramble - boots are sensible, trainers will do if conditions are dry, but after rain it gets muddy and slippery. Families with older kids who've done a few hills before will manage it fine. Under-tens might find the gradient annoying.

What makes this worth your time is the solitude. You won't queue here. On a weekday in shoulder season you could have the ridge to yourself. The view alone justifies the climb - Tarbert's tiny fishing harbour sits below, the loch opens out, and on really clear days you can see across to Ireland.

If you're staying at The Gather or Tarbert Holiday Park, this is an obvious half-day out. Pair it with a poke around Tarbert village itself for lunch. Free to visit, naturally - just park sensibly near the village and head up. Worth the effort.