Ben Salachill

The walk up Ben Salachill from Pitlochry is straightforward enough, and the views across the Tummel Valley more than justify the effort. It's not a brutal ascent - the peak sits at 767 metres, so you're looking at a decent morning's work rather than a full expedition. The path climbs steadily through birch woodland before opening out onto moorland, and on a clear day the panorama stretches across Perthshire with Ben Vrackie dominating the view to the north.

This is proper walking territory. You'll want proper boots, and at least three hours to do it justice including breaks. It suits anyone with moderate fitness who likes a straightforward hill walk without technical scrambling. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might find the final push tedious. The moorland environment is bleak in bad weather but glorious when the sun's out.

Best visited between May and September when the paths are dry and the light lingers. Free to climb, obviously - it's a Scottish hill. If you're based at any of the nearby parks - Inver Mill Farm Caravan Park or Pitilie Pods are closest - Ben Salachill makes an excellent half-day outing from Pitlochry, leaving plenty of time to explore the town itself or tackle neighbouring hills like Ben Vrackie if you're keen. The walk keeps you on your toes without becoming punishing.