Càrn Macoul

The walk up Càrn Macoul rewards you with one of those rare Scottish hilltop moments where the effort feels entirely justified. At 800 metres, it's no Munro, but from Newtonmore in the Highlands the ascent is genuine enough to make you work for it. The summit offers proper panoramic views across the Monadhliath mountains - sweeping ridge lines that stretch for miles, with the glens below still visible on clearer days.

This is walker territory, full stop. The kind of hill that families with decent legs can manage in a couple of hours return, while serious hikers treat it as a warm-up before tackling bigger peaks nearby. The terrain is moorland and grass - nothing technical, but it can be boggy and the weather changes fast, so come prepared. Allow three to four hours if you're in no rush.

Newtonmore sits right at the base, which means you're not driving ages from a proper town with cafes and shops. Both Laggan Glamping and Invernahavon Caravan Park are within comfortable striking distance - under five miles - making this an ideal midweek summit for anyone based at either site. It's the kind of hill that feels less crowded than the Cairngorms peaks but packs just as much satisfaction when you're standing at the top looking back down.

Go on a clear day if you can. The view on a grey one is honestly a bit flat.