Carn Fliuch-bhaid

The walk up Carn Fliuch-bhaid isn't one you'll stumble upon by accident. It's a proper hill walk rather than a casual stroll - the kind that demands decent boots and weather you can tolerate, because the Scottish Highlands don't do mild. From Inverness, you're looking at a decent drive to reach the trailhead, but once you're up there, the views across the glens and lochs justify the effort. The peak itself sits at a respectable height without quite tipping into serious mountaineering territory, which makes it ideal for walkers who want something more challenging than a forest path but aren't ready to tackle Ben Nevis.

Most people will allow three to four hours for the round trip, depending on fitness and how many times you stop to catch your breath or snap photos. It's the kind of walk where you'll see perhaps a handful of other hikers on a busy day - this isn't a honeypot attraction. Families with older kids who actually enjoy hiking will get genuine value from it. Those after a quick photo stop should look elsewhere.

If you're basing yourself at Loch Ness Shores, the nearby camping and caravanning site, you're well positioned for this and other Highland walks. The terrain can be boggy in places, particularly after rain, so go prepared. Free to climb, obviously - these hills don't charge entry. Aim for clear weather if you can; mist rolls in fast up here and kills the views entirely. Worth doing properly rather than rushing it.