Cruach Mhór

Getting to the top of Cruach Mhór is a proper workout, but that's rather the point. This isn't some gentle stroll - it's a genuine hill walk that rewards proper effort with views across the Cowal Peninsula and down towards the Firth of Clyde. From Colintraive, you're looking at a couple of hours of steady climbing through moorland and rocky terrain to reach the summit at around 2,000 feet.

The peak itself is the draw here. On a clear day you'll see Ben Lomond to the north and the mountains beyond Strachur rolling away in every direction. It's the kind of vantage point that makes you understand why people bothered moving to Argyll in the first place.

Walkers will have the best time of it - proper boots and a decent map are essential. Families with young kids should think carefully: it's steep enough and exposed enough to require proper supervision. The route starts near the village and winds up through rough ground, so allow three to four hours for a leisurely round trip.

If you're based at either Glendaruel Caravan Park just two miles away or Strathlachlan Caravan Park a bit further north, this makes an excellent half-day expedition. Both sites are well-positioned for exploring the wider area, but Cruach Mhór itself is where you come if you want genuine Highland walking without having to drive four hours north. Worth the scramble.