Càrn Dubh

The walk up Càrn Dubh takes you into proper Highland country, just a short drive south of Inverness. It's not a dramatic peak - nothing like the bigger mountains you'll see further west - but it rewards you with views across the Moray Firth and back towards the Great Glen. The ascent is straightforward enough, taking around two hours return depending on your fitness, and the path is reasonably well-maintained underfoot.

This is hill-walking without the serious altitude gain, which makes it ideal for families with older kids or anyone wanting a proper walk without needing mountaineering experience. You get genuine Highland scenery without the commitment of a full day's expedition. The summit itself is modest - a cairn and a bench, basically - but on a clear day the perspective from up there is worth the effort.

Go for it as part of a wider exploration of the area around Inverness. If you're staying at Tomatin Glamping Pods, you're virtually on the doorstep, which makes this a no-brainer for an afternoon sortie. Wet weather can make the paths boggy, so time it for decent conditions. Early morning is best if you want to avoid the midges. Allow three hours if you're taking your time and stopping for the view. It's free access across the hillside, and you can start from a basic car park near Tomatin village. Don't expect solitude on weekends, but during the week you might have the hill to yourself.