Aonadh Beag

The walk up Aonadh Beag isn't technically demanding, but it's proper exposed once you gain height. This peak sits just outside Oban in Argyll, and on a clear day the views across the Sound of Mull are genuinely worth the effort. You're looking at roughly two to three hours for a round trip depending on your fitness, climbing about 500 metres through moorland that changes character as you ascend.

It's the sort of hill that rewards early starts. Go late afternoon and you'll be fighting the light. The terrain is rough underfoot - loose scree in places - so proper boots matter more than they would on manicured paths elsewhere. Families with older kids who don't mind a bit of grunt will manage fine. Young children or anyone looking for a gentle stroll should look elsewhere.

What makes it worthwhile is the isolation. Aonadh Beag doesn't pull the crowds of bigger peaks. You'll likely have the summit to yourself, which in Scottish hiking is increasingly rare. The panorama takes in the Treshnish Isles, Ben More across the water, and on exceptional days, the Paps of Jura.

If you're based at one of the holiday parks ringing Oban - Tanunda Pods or Loch View are closest at under three miles - this makes a proper morning's work that leaves you back for lunch. Pack water and something to eat. There's nowhere to buy anything on the hill itself. Free to access, naturally.