Blackyduds

The walk up Blackyduds from near Banchory takes you through proper Deeside countryside before the land starts to climb properly. It's not a massive peak - you're looking at around 500 metres - but the approach rewards you with clear views across the Dee valley and back towards Banchory itself. The walk itself is straightforward enough for families with older kids, though the path can get muddy after rain and there's not much shelter once you're up there. Allow a couple of hours there and back depending on fitness. Most people do it as an afternoon outing rather than an all-day expedition. Go in decent weather because the views are the whole point, and mist rolls in fast in this part of the Highlands. Silverbank Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is less than five miles away and gets consistently strong reviews - worth booking if you're planning a few walks in the area. Banchory Lodge is similarly well-regarded. The walk fits nicely into a broader Deeside itinerary alongside other local hills and the river itself. It's the sort of thing you'd do once if you're staying locally rather than planning a trip specially around it, but that doesn't make it a waste of an afternoon. Fair views, decent exercise, no queues, no entrance fee.