Carn Dubh-chromagach

The walk up Carn Dubh-chromagach from near Inverness is proper Scottish hill walking without the tourist crowds. You're looking at a straightforward ascent that rewards you with wide views across the Highlands - moorland stretching away, the distant lumps of other peaks, and on a clear day, the sense that you've earned your vantage point.

It's the kind of mountain that suits walkers who want a decent outing without needing full technical kit. Allow a good three hours for the round trip from the car park, longer if you're taking it leisurely or stopping to absorb the landscape. The terrain is typical Highland - rough grass, heather, the occasional boggy patch that catches you out if you're not paying attention.

Families with experienced young walkers will manage it fine. Casual strollers might find it a bit relentless. History buffs won't find anything specific waiting at the summit - this is pure landscape walking, which some people will find meditative and others frankly dull.

The real value here is the location. You're close enough to Inverness for a proper base, yet the hill itself feels remote. If you're staying at somewhere like Tomatin Glamping Pods just down the way, this becomes an obvious half-day mission. Weather dictates everything - bring waterproofs as standard, even if the forecast looks optimistic. Clear mornings are your friend; mist rolls in fast in these parts.