Bracklamore Hill

The walk up Bracklamore Hill rewards you with proper Highland views across Aberdeenshire's rolling landscape. It's not a major peak - nothing that'll take your breath away in the dramatic sense - but the climb itself is straightforward enough for most walkers, and the summit gives you genuine perspective over the surrounding countryside.

The approach is gentle at first, then steepens towards the top. You're looking at somewhere between ninety minutes and two hours if you're moving at a reasonable pace. The real appeal is the solitude you'll find here. Unlike the busier peaks further north, Bracklamore doesn't pull in crowds of Instagram tourists, which means you actually get space to breathe and think.

Histories buffs won't find much in the way of ruins or heritage sites, so this is really a walkers' hill - families with older kids who can manage an uphill slog will enjoy it more than those with toddlers in tow. Bring decent boots; the ground gets boggy in places, especially after rain.

If you're based at one of the nearby glamping spots - Shepherd's Loch or Clochforbie Yurts are closest - Bracklamore makes an excellent half-day outing. Gamrie Bay Caravan Site puts you within easy striking distance too. It's the kind of walk that punctuates a longer holiday nicely without dominating your day. Not spectacular, but genuinely worth doing if you're in the area.