Càrn na Lòinne

The walk up Càrn na Lòinne catches most people off guard. You'd be forgiven for thinking it's just another Highland bump, but the views from the summit properly justify the effort - especially if you've driven up from Inverness for a few days in the Highlands.

It's a straightforward hill walk rather than a technical scramble, which means families with decent fitness can manage it without needing specialist gear. The terrain gets steep near the top, but nothing that'll have you regretting your choice. Most walkers allow two to three hours for the round trip depending on pace and how many times you stop to photograph the landscape.

When you're up there, the vista stretches across the Monadhliath mountains - it's genuinely worth the huff and puff, though I'll be honest, the final push is a bit relentless. Go early to avoid the afternoon mist rolling in, and pick a day when the weather's actually playing along. Rain here isn't just wet - it's proper demoralising.

If you're staying at Tomatin Glamping Pods nearby, this becomes a no-brainer half-day activity. It breaks up a longer park holiday without eating your whole day. Fit walkers will barely notice the distance; casual rambles might find it a touch more challenging than expected. Either way, you'll earn whatever's for dinner.