Cnoc Madaidh

The walk up Cnoc Madaidh rewards you with proper views across the Cowal Peninsula, and it's the sort of hill that doesn't demand a full day of your time. From Colintraive, the ascent is straightforward enough - steep in patches, admittedly, but nothing that requires specialist kit or a head for heights. You're looking at roughly two hours return if you keep a steady pace, which makes it ideal if you've only got an afternoon free during a caravan park stay nearby.

What makes this one worth doing is the vantage point itself. On a clear day you can see across to Bute and down the Kyles of Bute. The summit's modest in height but big on perspective. Families with older kids will manage it without fuss; younger children might find the steeper sections tedious, though it's never dangerous. The path itself can be boggy after rain - happens regularly in Argyll - so proper boots matter more than speed.

You'll want to time it for good weather. There's nothing worse than trudging up a Scottish hill in mist only to stand at the top seeing absolutely nothing. Base yourself at one of the nearby parks - Glendaruel Caravan Park or The Secret Glen Campsite are both rated brilliantly and close enough that you can be parking near Colintraive within minutes. Stratheck Holiday Park sits a bit further out but is worth considering if you're planning several days of exploring the area. Free to walk, no fees, no nonsense. Just go early if you're hoping for company at the summit.