Aonach Beag

The walk up Aonach Beag isn't for the casual stroller. This 2,949-metre peak sits just across the glen from Ben Nevis, and while it lacks the crowds of its famous neighbour, it demands proper respect - the terrain is rough, exposed in places, and the weather can turn in minutes.

Most people tackle it as part of the Mamores ridge walk, linking it with neighbouring peaks for a proper day in the mountains. The views are genuinely excellent - on a clear day you're looking out across the Highlands with Glen Nevis dropping away beneath you. The rock underfoot is loose in spots and the path climbs steeply, so this is walker territory rather than a family morning outing.

Base yourself in Kinlochleven and you're perfectly positioned. Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park sits just 4.5 miles away with top reviews, so you can wake up, grab breakfast, and be on the mountain by mid-morning. Ben Nevis Holiday Park is another solid option at 5.4 miles if Glen Nevis is full.

Allow a full day - five to six hours minimum for the round trip if you're fit, longer if you're taking in the wider Mamores circuit. Go midweek in shoulder season (May or September) when the midges aren't aggressive and you won't be queuing for trail space. Winter brings serious avalanche risk, so unless you know what you're doing, leave it for summer.