Beinn Ghlas

The walk up Beinn Ghlas is proper steep, but that's rather the point. This 997-metre peak sits just outside by, and it's one of those Scottish mountains that doesn't feel impossibly remote despite the serious altitude. The summit rewards you with views across Argyll that stretch for miles when the weather cooperates - which, let's be honest, is maybe three days a year up here.

You're looking at a good four to five hours round trip depending on fitness and which route you fancy. Most people tackle it from the south, and the initial push through moorland is relentless. Your legs will know about it. But once you break above the cloud line - if you're lucky - the views across Loch Awe and beyond make the sweat worthwhile.

This is a walk for people who actually like walking, not Instagram hikers after a forty-minute stroll. You'll need proper boots, a map, and weather sense. Solo walkers should give it proper thought, especially in winter when conditions turn nasty fast. Families with young kids will find it too long and punishing.

If you're based at one of the holiday parks nearby - Loch Awe Holiday Park and Loch View Luxury Pod are both close enough - you could knock this out as a day mission. Spring and early summer give you the best light and longest days. It's free to climb, obviously, but you'll burn through a full tank of determination getting up there.