Clach na Carraig (Diarmaid's Pillar)

A weathered standing stone in the hills above Oban, Clach na Carraig marks one of those places where legend blurs into landscape. Also known as Diarmaid's Pillar, it supposedly marks the burial spot of Diarmaid Ua Duibhne, a hero from Irish and Scottish mythology - though whether that's literally true or simply the story locals have favoured for centuries is anyone's guess.

You're looking at a single upright stone in fairly remote terrain, so manage expectations accordingly. The appeal here isn't a visitor centre or interpretation boards - it's the walk itself and the sense of reaching somewhere genuinely off the beaten track. The trek from Oban takes you through proper Argyll landscape, moorland and hills, and the stone sits as a quiet punctuation mark at the end of it. Allow a good half-day if you're walking there properly.

History enthusiasts will find it worthwhile, particularly those interested in Celtic mythology and how these stories attach themselves to the land. Families with younger kids might find the walk outweighs the payoff - it's not a dramatic ruin or an obvious destination. Serious walkers, though, will appreciate the route and the remoteness.

Free to visit, obviously - there's just a stone in a field. No facilities nearby, so bring water and decent boots. The accommodation options around Oban - Maggie's Cabin, Tanunda Pods, and Loch View Luxury Pod are all within a few miles - make decent bases if you're planning a few days exploring this corner of Argyll. Late spring through early autumn is your window for comfortable walking conditions.