Beinn Ruadh

The climb up Beinn Ruadh from Dunoon is a proper hill walk rather than a casual stroll, but the effort pays off. This peak rises above Argyll's coast with views that stretch across the Firth of Clyde - on a clear day you can see right over to Ayrshire. The approach takes you through woodland before opening onto moorland, and the final push to the summit is steep but manageable for anyone with reasonable fitness.

Allow three to four hours for the round trip, depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top. Most walkers start early to catch the light, especially in winter when daylight's scarce. It's free, naturally - just turn up with decent boots and waterproofs because the weather can turn quickly on Scottish hills.

This works well as part of a broader Cowal Peninsula exploration. If you're based at Beach House Pods, just down the road from Dunoon, you can knock this out in a morning and still have the afternoon for the coast. Hunters Quay Holiday Village, a few miles north, also puts you within striking distance. The walk suits anyone who enjoys a proper hill day without needing technical climbing skills. Kids above ten or so would manage it if they're used to walking, though it's not the sort of peak that holds younger children's attention once they've reached the top.