Càrn Dearg

The walk up Càrn Dearg isn't for the faint-hearted, but the 761-metre summit rewards effort with genuinely stellar views across Argyll's lochs and mountains. You're looking at a proper hill rather than a casual stroll - the path climbs steeply through moorland and rough terrain, taking most people around two to three hours up and back from the starting point near Oban.

What makes it worth the graft is the perspective you get. On a clear day, you can see across to Ben Cruachan and down towards Loch Awe - the kind of vista that makes your phone camera seem inadequate. The summit itself is windswept and exposed, so bring layers even if it looks mild in the car park. Weather changes fast up here.

Walkers with decent fitness will get the most from this one. It's not technical, but it's relentless, and you'll want proper boots rather than trainers. Families with young children might find it a slog - the payoff is landscape rather than facilities or attractions at the top. There's nothing up there but views and the satisfaction of having got there.

If you're basing yourself at Loch Awe Camping Pods, this makes a proper day out. The drive from Oban takes under half an hour, and you'll need the full afternoon. Go early to avoid afternoon cloud rolling in, and bring water - there's no shelter or refreshments anywhere near the hill.