Creag Gharbh

The walk up Creag Gharbh is one of those Scottish hill days that feels properly rewarding without demanding a full mountaineer's schedule. It's a brooding peak in the Highlands just south of Inverness, and on a clear day the views sweep across to the Monadhliaths and back towards the city itself. The ascent isn't technical - it's more about steady legs and decent weather - but the exposed position means wind can be bracing, so come prepared.

Most walkers take between two and three hours for the round trip depending on pace and how much time you spend at the summit eating sandwiches and squinting at the landscape. The peak itself is rocky and craggy, which explains the name (Creag Gharbh translates as rough crag), and there's a genuine sense of having earned the views when you get up there. On hazy days it's less impressive, so timing matters.

This is ideal for experienced hill walkers or anyone looking to build confidence on Scottish peaks. Families with older kids who've done a few hills would manage it fine, but younger children would probably find the exposed terrain a bit much. It's not a casual stroll.

If you're based at Tomatin Glamping Pods - which is only 5 miles away - you've got a brilliant day walk on your doorstep. No facilities on the hill itself, so take water and snacks. Free to climb, naturally. Early morning ascents work well to dodge the afternoon wind that can roll in off the Moray Firth.