Drumstinchall

The walk up Drumstinchall is a proper little workout, but the views across the Solway Firth and into the Lake District make it well worth the slog. It's not a major peak - more of a substantial hill, really - but that's rather the point. You get the satisfaction of a climb without needing crampons or a mountain rescue team on speed dial.

The approach from Dalbeattie is straightforward enough, though the final push gets steep. On a clear day, the visibility is excellent. You can see right across to the Mull of Galloway and beyond. Walkers will get genuine pleasure from this one, particularly those who prefer quieter routes without the crowds you'd find on some of the bigger Scottish peaks. It's not a trail for young children - the ground is rough and the gradient relentless in places - but teenagers who don't mind a bit of graft will find it manageable.

Allow a couple of hours for the round trip, depending on your fitness. There's no visitor centre or facilities at the summit, so bring water and snacks. Spring and early summer offer the best weather, though midweek visits in autumn can be stunning if you catch a clear spell.

If you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Gorsebank or Sandyhills Bay are closest - this makes a solid half-day outing. Combine it with a visit to Dalbeattie itself for lunch, then head to the coast at Kippford for an evening walk. The whole area is worth a few days' exploration.