Dumbowie

There's a proper hike up Dumbowie if you want to bag a Lowland peak without the Highlands commitment. It's not a household name like Ben Lomond - you'll find plenty of space and quiet on the slopes - but the views across Loch Lomond and towards the Trossachs make the effort worthwhile. The walk takes you through mixed woodland before opening onto moorland, and on a clear day the outlook is genuinely spectacular.

You're looking at roughly two hours up and back from Balloch, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. The path is well-defined but can be muddy underfoot, so proper boots aren't optional. There's no visitor centre or facilities, so bring water and a packed lunch if you're making a day of it.

This works best for walkers who actually want a walk rather than a casual stroll. Families with young kids might find the climb a bit much, though determined nine-year-olds will manage it fine. History buffs won't find anything dramatic up there - it's purely about the walk itself and what you see from the summit.

Stay at one of the nearby holiday parks - Loch Lomond Retreat and Lomond Woods are both five-star rated and perfectly positioned for tackling Dumbowie as a morning expedition before heading down to the loch itself. The peak makes a solid half-day activity rather than an all-day commitment, which means you've got the afternoon free for water-based stuff or exploring Balloch's waterfront. Worth doing if you're in the area, but don't rearrange your trip specifically for it.