Carn Loch a' Mhuilinn

The walk up Carn Loch a' Mhuilinn won't take you long - it's a modest Highland peak that rewards you with proper views across the glens without demanding your entire day. Starting from near Beauly, you're looking at a straightforward trudge up moorland and rough grass, nothing technical, just steady climbing. The summit sits at 762 metres and on a clear day you can see right across the Highlands. It's the sort of walk locals do rather than tourists, which means fewer crowds and a genuine sense of getting somewhere real.

This one suits walkers who want honest exercise without the scrambling or complications of bigger peaks. Families with older kids will manage it fine in two to three hours return, though younger ones might find the exposed moorland a bit relentless. There's nothing at the top - no cairn to photograph, no café - just space and views, which is exactly what appeals to some people.

Timing matters here. Spring and autumn are genuine, but summer midges can be proper mental on still days. Winter needs proper hillwalking kit. The nearest base is Beauly, which has shops and parking, and if you're staying at Cannich Woodland Camping just five miles away, this makes a decent afternoon walk to break up a longer trip. Free of course - it's just a mountain. Allow three hours for a comfortable pace and don't rush the descent.