Craig Phadrig

The walk up Craig Phadrig from Inverness takes about forty minutes if you're moving at a steady pace, and the effort pays off with proper views across the city and out towards the Moray Firth. It's not a difficult climb - the path is well-trodden and straightforward - but it's steep enough that you'll feel it in your legs by the top. The summit itself sits at around 370 metres, crowned with an Iron Age fort that's been here for two millennia. There's not much left to see of the fortifications now, just ramparts and ditches, but standing up there you understand why someone picked this spot - the vantage point is excellent.

Walkers will find this one genuinely worthwhile, particularly on a clear day when you can see for miles. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might grumble about the gradient. Allow two hours for the round trip including time to catch your breath at the top and take some photos. It's free, obviously - just turn up and go. The path starts from the car park on the eastern side of the hill.

If you're staying at one of the caravan parks nearby - Bunchrew is closest at just over a mile away - this makes a cracking morning outing before breakfast or an early evening walk when the light's soft. It pairs well with exploring Inverness itself, though Craig Phadrig works best as a standalone walk rather than squeezed in with a dozen other attractions. Go when the weather's settled. On a grey, damp day it's just a steep slog through clouds.