Craig Leek

The walk up Craig Leek from Ballater is a proper scramble, but the effort pays off. This rocky peak sits above the town and commands views across the Dee Valley that stretch for miles on a clear day. The route isn't technical - just steep and relentless in places - so you'll need decent legs and boots with grip.

It's the sort of walk that rewards you halfway through when you turn around and realise how far you've already climbed. The summit itself is modest, topped with heather and granite, but the panorama is anything but. You can see right across the Cairngorms on a good afternoon.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip from Ballater town. The walk suits keen hillwalkers and families with stamina rather than casual strollers - toddlers won't make it, but older kids with some experience will find it manageable. Spring and autumn are best; winter snow can make it treacherous.

If you're staying at Braemar Caravan Park just up the road, this makes an excellent day out without needing to drive. The park's location between Ballater and Braemar puts you perfectly for exploring the Deeside hills. Weather in the Highlands changes fast, so start early and check conditions before heading up. Proper mountain weather gear is essential, even when it looks clear from town.