Formal Hill

The walk up Formal Hill isn't particularly long, but it feels like proper hill-walking rather than a casual stroll. From Dunkeld, you're looking at a straightforward trudge that takes most people between an hour and ninety minutes to the summit - nothing steep enough to require scrambling, nothing flat enough to be boring. The views across Perthshire at the top are the thing here. On a clear day you can see enough to make the effort worthwhile, though I'll be honest, it's not the kind of peak that stops you dead with its majesty. It's more understated than that.

Who gets the most from it? Walkers who fancy a modest hill without committing to a full day on Ben Vane or Ben Lawers. Families with older kids will manage it fine, though younger ones might need coaxing. History types won't find much up there except the view itself and the satisfaction of having done it. The nearest town is Dunkeld, which is pleasant enough for a wander and a coffee after.

There's no visitor centre, no admission charge, no faffing about with booking. Just park sensibly near the start and go. Allow three hours return if you're not rushing. It works well as part of a broader Perthshire walking week - you could easily fit it between stays at Newmill Farm or Inver Mill Farm Caravan Park, both within easy reach. Best tackled on a day when the weather's behaving. Mist makes it less rewarding, and the path can get boggy in wet conditions.