Cnoc nan Gaimhnean

The walk up Cnoc nan Gaimhnean from near Invergordon isn't dramatic or show-stopping, but it's exactly what you want on a crisp Highland afternoon when you've got a couple of hours to spare. The summit sits at 228 metres, which means you're hardly gasping for breath, and the path is straightforward enough that you won't spend half your time studying a map.

What makes it worthwhile is the view south across the Moray Firth - on a clear day you can see across to the far shore without the peak itself fighting for attention. It's the sort of walk that appeals to families who don't want a full-day slog, or to older walkers after a gentle leg-stretcher. Young kids might find it a bit dull on the way up unless they're keen on views, but the round trip takes perhaps ninety minutes at a leisurely pace.

If you're camped at Dornoch Firth Caravan Park or staying at Newmore Highland Pods, both within striking distance, this makes a solid morning or late afternoon outing. The ground can be boggy in places - standard Scottish Highland behaviour - so decent boots aren't optional. There's no facilities at the start, so bring what you need.

Truly local stuff: it won't be heaving with tourists, and that's rather the point. Worth doing if you're in the area and fancy moving about, but don't plan your entire holiday around it.