Barr Bàn

The walk up Barr Bàn rewards you with something rare in Argyll - proper views without the crowds. This 806-metre peak sits just inland from Lochgilphead, and on a clear day you'll see across to the Cowal Peninsula and down Loch Fyne. The approach is straightforward enough, starting from the low ground near the village and climbing through mixed woodland before opening onto moorland. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, depending on fitness.

It's the sort of hill that appeals to walkers who want substance without technical difficulty. You won't need scrambling skills or specialist kit, though the higher sections get boggy after rain, so decent boots are essential. Families with older kids manage it fine, though younger ones might find the latter stages tedious. The real draw is the isolation - you'll likely have the ridge to yourself, which counts for plenty in this corner of Argyll.

If you're based at The Pod Over By or Lochgilphead Caravan Park, this makes an excellent half-day excursion. It's far enough from the main tourist routes to feel like a proper discovery, yet close enough to base yourself nearby without faffing about with long drives. There's no café at the top or visitor facilities to speak of, so bring water and something to eat. Spring and early summer are best - the ground dries out, and the light lasts well into the evening. Winter ascents are possible but require more care on the descent.