Ceann Mòr

The walk up Ceann Mòr rewards you with one of those rare Scottish vistas that actually lives up to the hype. Starting from near Oban, you're looking at a proper hill rather than a casual stroll - expect a couple of hours if you're fit, longer if you're taking it steady. The terrain is typical West Highland: boggy in patches, rocky underfoot, and genuinely steep in sections, but nothing that requires technical gear.

What makes it worth the effort is the view south across the Firth of Lorn towards the islands. On a clear day - and yes, that does happen in Argyll - you can pick out Mull, Scarba, and Jura spreading out below like a geography lesson. The peak itself is modest and windswept, but that's rather the point. There's no café at the top, no visitor centre, no paved path. Just you, the weather, and proper Highlands.

This works brilliantly as a half-day adventure if you're based at Sunnybrae Holiday Park or Argyll Kayaker Cove, both just five minutes' drive away. Families with older kids will find it manageable; younger ones might struggle with the boggy sections. Solo walkers and anyone after genuine solitude should plan for an early start to beat the midges and catch the light.

Go when the weather forecast looks settled - midweek in June or September tends to be quieter than summer weekends. It's free, obviously. Just take the usual precautions: decent boots, water, and a map.