Knock of Formal

The walk up Knock of Formal isn't long, but it's properly steep. This Aberdeenshire peak sits just outside Blairgowrie and rewards you with views across the Perthshire landscape that frankly justify the huffing and puffing on the way up. On a clear day you can see for miles - moorland rolling off in every direction, and on good visibility days the distant Cairngorms smudge the horizon.

It's a solid choice for hillwalkers who don't want to commit to a full day expedition. The path is straightforward enough, though your legs will know about it by the time you're back at the car park. Allow a couple of hours there and back, depending on fitness. There's no café at the top, so bring water. The whole thing is free - just rock up and start walking.

Families with older kids will manage fine; younger ones might struggle with the gradient. Serious bagging types will find it a bit light, but as a midweek leg-stretcher between staying at Nethercraig Holiday Park or Five Roads Caravan Park, it's spot on. The moorland setting means weather can turn quickly, so check conditions before heading out.

Not Instagram-famous, which is refreshing. You won't be jostling for the summit shot. Just a proper Scottish hill with decent views and no nonsense. Worth the detour if you're based in the area for a week.