Druim na Gaoithe

The walk up Druim na Gaoithe isn't long, but it's proper steep and the wind can be relentless - the name means 'ridge of the wind' in Gaelic, which should give you a clue. Starting from near Invergordon, you're looking at a couple of hours round trip if you're fit, longer if you're taking it steady. The summit itself sits at just under 3,000 feet, so it's not a monster, but the climb is unforgiving and the views across the Cromarty Firth are genuinely worth the huffing and puffing. On a clear day you can see right across to Ben Wyvis and beyond. We went in autumn and caught it in afternoon light - golden and clean, with practically no one else up there. It gets busy in summer though, especially weekends. The path is boggy in places and the descent can be tricky when wet, so proper boots aren't optional. This works well if you're staying at Newmore Highland Pods down in the valley - gives you something meaty to do that's not too far from base. Families with older kids (10+) will manage fine if they're used to hills. Young children would find it tough. Allow half a day, start early, and bring waterproofs even if the forecast looks decent.