Beinn a' Chaonich

The walk up Beinn a' Chaonich takes about two hours from the road and rewards you with proper Highland views across Lochalsh and towards the Isle of Skye. It's not a difficult climb - steep in patches but nothing technical - making it accessible for anyone with reasonable fitness. On a clear day you can see for miles; on a damp one, well, you're in the cloud within twenty minutes of the summit.

This is very much a walker's peak rather than a casual stroll. Families with older kids will manage fine, but younger ones might find the loose scree near the top tedious. The real appeal is in the isolation - you won't fight crowds like you would on Ben Nevis. Kyle is your nearest settlement, though there's precious little there beyond a petrol station and a few houses. The drive takes about forty minutes from either Glenshiel Campsite or Reraig Caravan & Camping Skye, both of which sit nicely for exploring this quieter corner of the Highlands.

Go on a settled day if you can manage it. The mountain's not going anywhere, and you'll curse yourself if you climb through murk. Spring through early autumn works best - winter requires proper mountain kit and experience. Bring water, decent boots, and a map. Park near the small layby on the road heading south from Kyle, then pick up the path from there. Allow three to four hours including the descent. Free, obviously.