Cruachan Mìn

The walk up Cruachan Mìn isn't a marathon, but it delivers more views per vertical metre than most Scottish peaks have a right to. Starting from near the Isle of Mull, you're looking at a proper hill rather than a mountain - manageable for most walkers but steep enough that you'll feel like you've earned the top.

What you get is that rare thing: a peak that rewards effort without demanding mountaineering skill. The views sweep across to Ben More and beyond, and on a clear day the angles work in your favour - you can see what you climbed for. It's less about technical challenge, more about the walk itself. The terrain underfoot varies from boggy to rocky, which keeps things interesting.

This works well for experienced hill walkers who like a brisk morning out without committing to a full day in the mountains. Families with teenagers used to hills can manage it too, though younger kids might find the push to the summit a bit relentless. Most people allow two to three hours for the round trip, depending on fitness and how often you stop for the view.

Port nan Gael Campsite sits just 5.5 miles away - a quality base if you're making this part of a broader Mull walking holiday. It's free to climb, obviously, and you can tackle it any time of year, though winter adds genuine technical difficulty. Spring and autumn offer the clearest light. Not essential, but solid value if you're in the area.