An Cruachan

Ben Cruachan isn't a casual afternoon stroll - it's a proper mountain that demands respect and decent legs. At 1,126 metres, it dominates the landscape between Oban and Loch Awe, and on a clear day from the summit you're looking out across the Hebrides with Mull sitting grey and magnificent across the water.

Most people tackle it from the Glen Noe car park, a punchy 8km round trip that takes about four hours. The path climbs steeply through forest, then opens onto moorland where you feel genuinely exposed to the elements. Weather changes fast up here - I've seen sunshine flip to cloud in ten minutes flat. Bring waterproofs even when it looks fine.

This is a walkers' hill, full stop. Families with young kids will struggle; anyone who enjoys higher peaks will find it rewarding without being technical. You don't need ropes or climbing experience, just fitness and proper footwear. The views justify the graft. On my visit, golden eagles were working the thermals overhead.

Nearest town is Oban, though if you're basing yourself at Island Pods or Port nan Gael Campsite on Mull, you're looking at a ferry crossing plus drive. Still worth it. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. Avoid this in winter unless you know what you're doing - it gets proper Scottish weather.

Free to climb, obviously. Allow a full morning or afternoon and don't rush the descent - knees take a hammering on the way down.