Dun Daraich, dun site

The remains of Dun Daraich sit on a hillside near Dunoon, and it's one of those archaeological sites that rewards the walk more than the destination itself. What you're looking at is an Iron Age dun - basically a fortified dwelling from roughly 2000 years ago. The stone walls are still visible in places, though they've weathered considerably, and there's something genuinely atmospheric about standing where someone once kept watch over the Clyde.

Getting here involves a decent walk from the road, so it's best suited to people who enjoy a bit of effort for their history. Kids might find it less engaging than somewhere with more standing structure - there's no dramatic tower or clear walls to clamber over, just defensive earthworks and scattered stone. But if you're into Iron Age settlement patterns or local archaeology, it's worth the leg work.

There's no visitor centre, no entry fee, no formal opening hours - just a hillside and what's left. Allow a couple of hours including the walk, longer if you want to sit and properly absorb the landscape these people chose for their fortress.

Stay at one of the caravan parks dotted around - Glenfinart is closest at under a mile away, though Loch Eck or Stratheck offer slightly more space if you prefer a bit of breathing room. Dunoon itself has all the facilities you'll need, and the coastal walks nearby are considerably gentler if you fancy a rest day.