Craig Royston Woods

The woods rise sharply above Arrochar, catching you off guard when you spot them from the road. Craig Royston is essentially a steep woodland walk through mixed forest, neither vast nor particularly famous, but if you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks it's a solid half-hour outing without needing a proper expedition plan.

The trees are thick - oak, birch, and conifers - and the paths wind upward through typical Scottish woodland. On a clear day you get glimpses toward Loch Lomond, which is the main reason to haul yourself up here rather than just wandering the flatter routes around Arrochar itself. The ascent is genuine enough that you'll notice it, but nothing that requires hiking boots or serious fitness.

Really, this is walker territory. Families with young kids might find it a bit relentless underfoot, and if you're after dramatic vistas or grand views, you'll be disappointed - it's trees and more trees. What it is, though, is convenient. If you're based at Loch Lomond Holiday Park or Forest Holidays Ardgartan just down the road, it kills an hour without driving anywhere. The path is accessible enough year-round, though winter mud can be proper thick.

Go if you're a walker and want a quick leg-stretch with a genuine bit of height gain. Skip it if you're purely after landscape photography or a gentle stroll. Admission is free, and there's parking nearby - arrive early if the weather's decent, as the pull is obvious to other visitors too.