Cruachan

Getting up Cruachan is no gentle stroll, but the views from the 3,689ft summit are worth every grunt on the ascent. This is proper hill-walking country, with the peak rising sharply above Loch Awe near Arrochar. On a clear day you're looking across to Ben Lui and down the length of Loch Awe, which alone justifies the effort. The walk itself starts from the Pass of Brander and takes roughly 3-4 hours round trip depending on fitness. It's steep enough that you'll know you've done it, but not technical climbing - just relentless uphill. Bring decent boots and check the weather; cloud can roll in fast and kill the view completely. This is one for proper walkers rather than casual rambles. Families with older teenagers who don't mind a leg-burner might manage it, but younger kids will struggle. The landscape is raw and moorish, quite exposed once you get above the tree line. If you're staying at Loch Lomond Holiday Park or Forest Holidays Ardgartan, Cruachan makes a solid day out - you're only a short drive from Arrochar. The climb is demanding enough that you won't want to rush it, so plan a full day. Weather permitting, it's genuinely rewarding. Just don't expect an easy afternoon.