Carn an Fhreacadain

Climbing Carn an Fhreacadain is a proper Scottish hill walk, nothing fancy but solid. It sits near Inverness in the Highlands, and on a clear day the views across the lochs and glens are genuinely worth the effort.

The walk itself isn't technically difficult - more of a steady plod up open moorland than anything requiring ropes or scrambling. Allow a couple of hours up and the same coming down, depending on your pace and how often you stop to catch your breath. The path is straightforward enough, though it can get boggy in places so decent boots matter.

This is a walker's hill rather than a family stroller kind of thing. Kids aged eight or nine upwards would manage it fine if they're used to walking. Anyone expecting a quick snap from the car park will be disappointed. Inverness makes an obvious base, or if you're after something more atmospheric, Go Glamping at Loch Ness is just five miles away - bit more memorable than a standard hotel room if you're making a proper trip of the Highlands.

Go when the weather's settled, ideally autumn or late spring. Winter can turn muddy hillsides into slippery nightmares. There's no charge for the walk - it's Scottish access land - and no facilities at the summit, so bring water and something to eat. The view across Loch Ness and the surrounding peaks is genuinely one of those moments that reminds you why hiking Scotland beats sitting in a queue.