Beinn Bhreac

The walk up Beinn Bhreac is one of those Scottish Highland days that stays with you - moorland, views that stretch for miles, and the particular kind of quiet you only get at altitude. It's a proper hill rather than a mountain, sitting near Inverness, which means you're not committing to an Alpine expedition. The ascent is straightforward enough, nothing technical, but it's steep enough in places that you'll feel it in your legs by the top.

What makes it worthwhile is the panorama from the summit. On a clear day - and the Highlands do deliver them, if rarely - you can see across to Ben Wyvis and right out towards the Moray Firth. The moorland approach is boggy in patches, so waterproof boots are non-negotiable, but the views justify the trudge. Allow a good three to four hours for the round trip depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

This is a walkers' hill, really. Families with younger children might find it a bit of a slog, though determined kids will manage it fine. There's no visitor infrastructure - no café, no car park facilities - so come prepared. It's free to access, naturally.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks nearby - Ardtower or Dornoch Firth are both close - this makes an excellent half-day outing alongside exploring the Inverness area. It's the sort of walk that gives you a real sense of the Highlands without requiring technical skill or a full day's commitment.