Ceann Garbh

You're looking at one of Islay's proper hill walks - Ceann Garbh rises up on the southern edge of the island with views that sweep across to Jura and the Paps beyond. Nothing technical about it, just a straightforward ridge walk that rewards you with panoramic sight lines over the Sound of Islay. The peak itself sits about 350 metres up, which means it's accessible without specialist kit but steep enough to get your heart going.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. If you've come to Islay for the whisky distilleries and quiet roads, Ceann Garbh gives you something to do with your legs on a decent weather day. From the top you can pick out the mainland hills and watch the ferry crossing to Oban on a clear run. The walk takes a solid couple of hours there and back depending on your pace and how long you linger at the summit.

Time it right and you'll avoid the wind that can whip across these heights - mornings tend to be calmer. Free to access, obviously, since it's open moorland. Stay at Islay Glamping Pods, just a mile away, and you're well positioned for an early start. The island's other attractions - Port Ellen's distilleries, the beaches at Machir Bay - fit neatly into a longer day. But come for the walk if fresh air and proper views are what you're after.