Glenshalg Hill

The walk up Glenshalg Hill rewards you with views across Aberdeenshire that stretch for miles - on a clear day you can see right across the Highlands. It's a proper hill rather than a gentle stroll, and the climb takes real effort, but locals near Tullochvenus swear by it for getting away from the caravan parks that dot this corner of Scotland.

You'll want decent boots and at least two hours if you're starting from the lower approach. The terrain gets steep towards the summit, and there's nothing between you and the wind once you crest the ridge. It's the kind of walk that separates the committed hikers from the "nice views from the car park" brigade.

Families with young kids will find it heavy going - this isn't a morning ramble. But teenagers who don't mind a proper challenge, or experienced walkers after some Highland air without the Cairngorms crowds, will get real value here. The views alone justify the sore legs.

It's free to access, and there's no set visiting season, though winter conditions can make the upper sections dodgy. If you're staying at Aboyne Loch Caravan Park just five miles away, it's worth the short drive. Pair it with easier walks around Loch Aboyne itself for a proper mixed-bag holiday - some lazy days, some active ones.