Ben Aigan

The walk up Ben Aigan is a proper straightforward hill rather than a proper mountain expedition - you're looking at around two hours there and back from Keith. It's the sort of peak that rewards you without demanding a full day's commitment, which makes it ideal if you're staying at Cairnty Lodges or Hillside Havens and fancy getting out into the Aberdeenshire landscape.

Once you've climbed to the summit, the views stretch across the Moray and Speyside region. On a clear day you can see decent distances, though I'll be honest - this isn't dramatic Alpine scenery. It's rolling, green, and properly Scottish in the way that appeals if you like space and solitude rather than jagged ridgelines. The path itself is well-maintained and doesn't present any real technical challenges, so families with older kids cope fine here.

Walkers will get genuine value out of it. The surrounding countryside has that quiet appeal - moorland and forest without the crowds you'd find on more famous peaks further north. It's also the kind of walk that leaves energy for other things in the afternoon, whether that's exploring Keith's distilleries or heading back to your lodge for a soak in a hot tub.

Peak season is May through September, though the midges can be tiresome in July and August. March and April feel fresher if you're flexible on timing. There's no charge, no formal visitor facilities - just park sensibly and walk. Allow two to three hours including a summit break.