Cruach an Sgliata

The walk up Cruach an Sgliata from near Inveraray is a proper hill scramble rather than a casual stroll, and it rewards the effort with views across Loch Fyne that make the huffing worthwhile. This is a peaked lump of a mountain - nothing massive, but steep enough to keep you honest for the climb. You're looking at a couple of hours up and down depending on fitness, so come with decent boots and realistic expectations about the weather. The peak itself isn't crowded, which is refreshing. On a clear day you can see right down the loch towards the coast, and inland towards the higher peaks. On a misty day - which happens often enough in Argyll - you get fog and the occasional surprise view when it clears.

This is walker territory, pure and simple. It's not a family jaunt with small children, though determined teenagers with some hill experience would manage fine. The scramble sections aren't technical but they're steep. You need to be able to read a map and navigate off-path, or go with someone who can.

Cruach an Sgliata works well as part of a wider Argyll walking trip. If you're staying at Fyne Glamping or Strathlachlan Caravan Park - both decent spots near Inveraray - this fills a morning nicely before heading elsewhere. The nearby town of Inveraray itself is worth an hour if you've time, though it's the kind of place you've probably seen before. Free to climb, obviously. Best in autumn or spring when the midges aren't out in force.