Cnoc Buidhe

The walk up Cnoc Buidhe is straightforward enough - it's a stubby hill with views across Loch Lomond that won't exhaust you but will get your legs working. From Glasgow, it's easily accessible if you're staying in the area, particularly at one of the caravan sites dotted around Milarrochy Bay or Inverbeg. The climb itself takes a decent hour and change depending on fitness, and you get proper 360-degree views of the loch below and the Trossachs beyond. It's one of those walks where the effort-to-reward ratio works in your favour.

Best for anyone wanting a proper outing without committing to a full Highland trek. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might grumble on the descent. The route's popular enough that you won't feel pioneering, but it's not overcrowded either. Go on a clear day - that's when the loch sprawls out beneath you and you can actually see what you've climbed for. Midweek in shoulder seasons tends to be quieter than weekends.

If you're based at any of the holiday parks around Loch Lomond - Milarrochy Bay is closest - this slots in nicely as a half-day venture. It's free to walk, naturally. The terrain's mostly grass and gentle slope, no technical scrambling. Bring proper boots though; the ground can be boggy in places, especially after rain. This is hill-walking Scotland stripped back to its essentials: a bit of physical graft, a decent view, home by lunchtime.