Meall a' Bhàrr

The walk up Meall a' Bhàrr from Pitlochry is one of those Scottish hill routes that rewards you properly without demanding mountaineer credentials. You're looking at a straightforward ascent through mixed woodland that opens onto moorland, with views across the Tay Valley that genuinely take your breath away on a clear day.

The mountain itself isn't massive - around 2,600 feet - but that means you can do the whole thing in three to four hours without it becoming an all-day epic. The path is well-trodden and reasonably maintained, though it gets boggy in places, so waterproof boots aren't optional. Starting early keeps you ahead of weekend crowds, and the light on the ridge in late afternoon is something special.

This works brilliantly if you're based at one of the nearby campsites. Kilvrecht Campsite and Tighnavon Glamping Pods sit just four and a half miles away, making it ideal for families wanting a proper walk without a massive commitment. Glengoulandie, a few miles further south, offers more facilities if you're towing a caravan. The walk suits anyone from reasonably fit teenagers upwards - younger kids might find it a bit of a slog, though determined ones absolutely manage it.

Free, of course. No gates, no charges, no nonsense. Pitlochry itself is fifteen minutes away for supplies and a decent meal afterward. The surrounding area is cracking for hill walking, so pair this with Ben Vrackie or one of the Tay Forest walks if you've got more time.