Creag an Amalaidh

The walk up Creag an Amalaidh from Tain takes you inland from the Moray Firth coast into proper Highland terrain - moorland that opens up fast once you've climbed the initial steep stretch. It's not a huge mountain by Scottish standards, but the views back towards the Dornoch Firth and across to Ben Loyal are the real draw here. The summit itself is modest, a rocky outcrop rather than a dramatic peak, but that's part of its appeal. You're not fighting crowds.

Allow two to three hours for the round trip depending on fitness. The path is straightforward enough, though it gets boggy in places and can be rough underfoot after rain. Spring through early autumn is best - winter can be grim and the moorland featureless. This suits walkers who want a proper expedition without technical difficulty, and it's the sort of hill that appeals to those getting into hillwalking rather than climbers after a challenge.

It's free, naturally. If you're staying at either Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park - which is genuinely well-kept - or the larger Grannie's Heilan' Hame over in Sutherland, Creag an Amalaidh works well as a half-day outing before heading back for a proper meal. Worth doing if you're in the area; don't reroute your entire holiday to get here.