Cruach nam Fad

You're looking at one of those Scottish hills that doesn't announce itself loudly but rewards you properly if you make the effort. Cruach nam Fad sits near Tarbert on the Kintyre Peninsula, and from the summit you get views across to Arran and down the length of Loch Fyne - genuinely exceptional stuff on a clear day.

It's a proper hill walker's climb rather than a casual stroll. The route isn't long in distance but it's steep enough to earn your views, and the terrain can be boggy lower down depending on how much rain Scotland's thrown at it recently. Allow a good two to three hours return if you're not moving quickly, and wear decent boots - trainers will leave your feet wet and miserable.

Historically types won't find much to examine on the ground itself, but the landscape tells its own story about how people lived on this peninsula. Families with young kids might find it a bit tough for the reward, but teenagers who've done a few hills will manage fine.

Time your visit for late spring through early autumn when the weather's less likely to turn on you halfway up. Winter ascents are possible but views vanish quickly in the cloud.

If you're based at Tarbert Holiday Park or The Gather, both just three miles away, this makes a cracking half-day expedition. Combine it with exploring Tarbert itself and you've got a solid morning sorted. It's not the kind of hike that dominates your entire day, which makes it sensible planning for a week split between different activities.