Cruach Rarey

The walk up Cruach Rarey from Oban is steep, moorish, and oddly rewarding for something barely 300 metres. Most people miss it entirely, which is precisely why it's worth doing. You start near Oban itself - no long drive required - and climb through bracken and bog to a summit that opens up views across Oban Bay, the Sound of Mull, and on a clear day, the islands beyond. Takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on fitness, so you're not committing your entire day.

For walkers passing through Oban it's a proper afternoon job, especially if you've already tackled something bigger in the area. Families with energetic kids will manage it fine - the path is straightforward enough even if muddy. History buffs won't find much to chew on here; this is about the views and the walk itself, not heritage. The summit feels isolated despite being minutes from town, which catches people off guard in the best way.

Free to climb, and no facilities up there, so bring water. Autumn and spring offer the clearest weather, though locals will tell you Oban's weather is temperamental year-round. If you're staying at Sunnybrae Holiday Park or Argyll Kayaker Cove nearby, it's a cracking way to clear your head between days on the water. Not a showstopper, but don't skip it if you've got a spare afternoon.