Beinn a' Bhuic

The walk up Beinn a' Bhuic from Killin is one of those routes that sneaks up on you. It's not dramatic like Ben Vorlich nearby, but it rewards you properly if you put in the effort. The peak sits at 1,019 metres and gives you proper views across Loch Tay towards the bigger mountains beyond - Glen Ochy stretches out below, and on a clear day you can see right into the heart of Perthshire.

This is walker territory, and you'll need decent boots and a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're taking it steady. The climb is fairly relentless, no switchbacks to ease the gradient, so it's not ideal for young children or anyone unfit. What you get, though, is solitude most days - proper Highlands peace without the crowds you'd find on Ben Lawers.

Start from Killin itself. The walk is free, obviously, and weather dependent - cloud comes in fast here, so an early start matters. Spring through autumn is best; winter adds serious complexity.

If you're based at Loch Tay Highland Lodges nearby, this makes a brilliant morning mission. Pair it with an afternoon around the loch itself - there's plenty to do without rushing back to the car. It's not one for pure mountain enthusiasts only, but it suits walkers who want views without the five-hour schlep of the bigger peaks. Worth the detour if you're in the area longer than a weekend.