Bàrr Cruinn

The walk up Bàrr Cruinn from Oban is short and sharp - we're talking under two hours return if you're reasonably fit, which makes it perfect for a half-day expedition when the Scottish weather decides to cooperate. You climb through mixed woodland before breaking out onto open moorland with proper views across Loch Linnhe and out towards the islands. On a clear day it's genuinely worth the effort. The peak itself isn't dramatic - no dramatic scrambling or exposure - but the panorama from up there justifies the slog.

This is ideal for walkers staying at any of the caravan parks dotted around Oban, especially Tanunda Pods or Maggie's Cabin which are closest. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might find the climb tedious. The path is well-trodden and fairly obvious, though muddy sections are inevitable even after dry spells.

Free to access, obviously - it's a Scottish hillside. Allow a good two to three hours if you're not rushing, and pick a morning when visibility looks decent because this walk absolutely depends on seeing something when you reach the top. Afternoon mist can roll in quickly in this part of Argyll, and you'll be left staring into white nothing. Early autumn is cracking for this one - enough daylight, the midges back off, and the heather's blooming. Don't bother in heavy rain unless you're genuinely hardcore.