Creag Phiobaidh

The walk up Creag Phiobaidh rewards you with views across the Dee Valley that'll make the effort feel entirely worthwhile. This isn't a technical climb by any stretch - it's a proper hill walk that most people with reasonable fitness can manage, though you'll want solid boots and respect for the Scottish weather.

Starting from near Ballater, the route takes you through moorland and up the slope of this rounded peak. The summit itself sits at around 2,000 feet, which means you get genuine altitude without needing ropes or mountaineering experience. On clear days the views sweep across to the Grampians and down towards Balmoral. On misty days - which is often - you'll have an atmospheric walk through cloud instead.

Walkers and hill enthusiasts will absolutely get the most from this. It's the sort of walk that takes a decent chunk of your day - allow three to four hours return from Ballater - but doesn't demand the commitment of the bigger peaks nearby. Families with older kids who don't mind a proper trudge will manage fine. Small children will find it dull.

You're free to roam these hills. There's no visitor centre or facilities on the mountain itself, so bring water and something to eat. The nearby Ballater Caravan Park and Howe of Torbeg are both within a couple of miles, making this an easy half-day outing if you're basing yourself in the area. Spring through to autumn is best - winter can be serious up here without proper experience. The Cairngorms National Park encompasses this landscape, and Creag Phiobaidh feels properly wild despite being accessible.