Bàrr na Coille

The walk up Bàrr na Coille isn't what you'd call a strenuous climb - it's manageable, which is why families often tackle it when staying around Oban. You're looking at decent views across Argyll from the summit, nothing that'll stop you dead in your tracks, but solid enough to justify the effort on a clear day.

It's the kind of peak that fits naturally into a broader exploration of the area rather than a standalone destination. If you're basing yourself at Sunnybrae Holiday Park six miles away, you could slot this in alongside the walks and lochs that make this corner of Argyll worth a week. The terrain is typical Scottish hillside - bracken, heather, rough grass underfoot. Wear proper boots.

The real appeal is the walking itself. You get a proper sense of the landscape here without needing mountaineering experience. It works for families with older kids who don't mind a steady trudge, and for walkers who want something achievable without committing to a full day's expedition. Allow two to three hours depending on your pace and how long you linger at the top.

Timing-wise, spring and early autumn are best - the weather's more forgiving, and the midges aren't quite so determined. Peak summer can be claggy. There's no admission charge or facilities, so bring what you need. Oban itself is close enough for a coffee beforehand, which helps with morale.