Blelack Hill

The walk up Blelack Hill rewards you with a proper panorama across upper Deeside - the sort of view that makes the climb feel entirely worthwhile. It's a modest peak by Highland standards, but that's rather the point. You get the sense of achievement without needing a rope and a packed lunch.

The route itself is straightforward enough. The gradient is steady rather than brutal, and on a clear day the views south towards the Cairngorms are genuinely impressive. Walkers should allow a couple of hours for the round trip, depending on pace and how often you stop to turn around and admire things. The terrain is moorland throughout - proper wild, open country that feels entirely removed from the caravan parks dotted around Tullochvenus and Tarland a few miles down the way.

This is decent for anyone who wants a leg-stretch with a view, but it's not a destination in itself. Families with young kids might find it a bit much; older children and regular walkers will get on fine. If you're staying at Aboyne Loch or Tarland Camping Club, it makes an excellent morning or afternoon outing to break up the park routine.

Go in decent weather - cloud can roll in quickly here, and the moorland becomes grim rather fast. Summer months are your best bet. The nearest town, Tullochvenus, is small; stock up on supplies beforehand if you're planning to make a proper day of it.