Cnoc na Trí Críche

The walk up Cnoc na Trí Críche from Cairndow is properly rewarding - the name means 'Hill of Three Shires' because it's where Argyll, Dunbartonshire and Stirlingshire meet, which gives you a sense of how good the views are. You're looking out across three counties from a modest 383 metres, which frankly is one of the pleasures of this area. The summit cairn is an honest old pile of stones, nothing fancy, but the sight lines stretch across Loch Eck and into the Cowal peninsula.

It's not a slog - takes maybe forty minutes up and the same back - so it suits families who want actual hills without the all-day commitment. Walkers with decent knees will find it straightforward. The path climbs steadily rather than dramatically, so it won't wreck you. Pick a clear day or you'll be standing in cloud wondering why you bothered.

The real value is combining this with the caravan parks dotted around the area. Loch Eck Caravan Park sits bang at the base of the region with top ratings, and Drimsynie over near Strachur makes a solid base for exploring both the walk and the lochs. If you're staying near Cairndow, the summit takes an afternoon and leaves you with time for supper back at the park. It's the kind of walk that feels like proper achievement without demanding a military expedition.