Carn Avie

The walk up Carn Avie rewards you with one of the cleanest views across the Cairngorms you'll get without tackling the proper high hills. It's a straightforward climb from Aviemore - not a slog, more of a decent hike that takes around two hours up and back if you're moving at a normal pace.

What you're after here is the panorama. On a clear day the vista sweeps across the Spey Valley and back towards the main Cairngorm plateau. The summit itself is rocky and exposed, so wind can be a factor even when the weather looks decent lower down. Bring layers.

This works brilliantly for walkers who want proper mountain air without committing to a full day on the high plateau. Families with older kids will manage it fine - younger ones might find the exposed sections a bit much. History types won't find much here, but nature lovers get proper value. The path is well-trodden and obvious for most of the way.

Timing matters. Go early to dodge the Aviemore crowds, and aim for spring through early autumn when the paths aren't boggy. Allow three hours if you're taking it easy and want time at the top to actually look around.

If you're based at Dalraddy Holiday Park five miles south, this sits perfectly into a week exploring the area - it's your warm-up hike before attempting Ben Macdui or spending time in the lower glens. Free to walk, naturally.