Creag an Loin

The walk up Creag an Loin from Newtonmore is straightforward enough, though calling it a "peak" is being generous - you're looking at around 800 metres rather than anything dramatic. That said, the Cairngorms don't do things by halves. The route itself climbs steadily through moorland and forest, and the views back down the Spey Valley are genuinely worth the effort, especially on a clear day when you can pick out the Monadhliath mountains across the way.

It's a solid afternoon walk rather than an all-day expedition. Most people allow two to three hours there and back. The terrain isn't technical, so families with older kids will manage it fine, though younger ones might find the unrelenting climb tedious. Hill walkers and anyone wanting a proper leg-stretcher without committing to something like Ben Macdhui will find this genuinely satisfying.

If you're basing yourself at Invernahavon Caravan Park or Laggan Glamping, this sits nicely into a week's exploration of the area. It's free, naturally - just turn up and go. Early morning beats the afternoon crowds, and the light's usually better anyway. There's no café at the top, so take water and something to eat. The weather changes fast up here, so check conditions before heading out. Newtonmore itself is small but has decent shops and pubs for supplies before you head to the hills.