Creagandummie

The walk up Creagandummie from Aboyne is one of those Scottish hill routes that looks modest on the map but rewards you properly once you're up there. It's not a slog - more of a pleasant afternoon amble that builds nicely without ever becoming brutal. The peak itself sits at a decent height above Deeside, giving you views across the Cairngorms that justify the effort, particularly if you time it for clear weather. The climb takes most people around two hours there and back, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top.

Walkers will get the most from this one. It's straightforward enough for anyone with reasonable hill experience but not so trivial that you feel cheated of a proper walk. Families with older kids can manage it fine, though younger ones might find the ascent a bit relentless. The terrain is generally well-defined and the exposure is minimal, so there's nothing scary about it even if conditions get a bit damp.

If you're staying at Aboyne Loch Caravan Park or Firbank Park - both excellent bases for the area - this works as a half-day outing that doesn't require a car journey. You can be up and back before lunch or tackle it in the afternoon. The Deeside location means you're well-placed for other walks too, so pair this with whatever else catches your eye locally. Free to do, obviously. Just turn up and walk.