Carn na Croite

Carn na Croite sits about three miles from Tomatin, a proper little Highland hill that punches above its weight on the walk up. The summit sits at 663 metres and the views across the Moray Firth towards the Black Isle are genuinely worth the effort, especially on a clear day when you can pick out the Cairngorms in the distance. It's not a technical climb by any stretch - just a straightforward woodland and moorland walk that takes most people around two hours up and back. The path starts near the village and winds through Scots pine before opening onto rough heather ground. If you're staying at Tomatin Glamping Pods, this makes an excellent morning excursion without needing to drive anywhere. The walk suits families with kids aged eight and upwards, though younger legs might find the steady gradient a bit of a slog. In autumn the light through the trees is proper magical. What catches people off guard is how exposed the top gets when the weather turns - bring layers even on what looks like a fine morning in Inverness, because it's hillier up there and the wind doesn't mess about. The whole outing is free, naturally, and there are no facilities on the hill itself. Go early if you can. Late afternoon brings midges in summer, and the car park near the trailhead fills up during peak season. Winter conditions can make it slippery underfoot, so check your boots are up to it.