Hill of Ardtannes

The walk up Ardtannes from near Inverurie rewards you with one of those views that makes the climb feel entirely worthwhile. It's not a lengthy slog - nothing mad - but it does kick up properly towards the summit, so decent boots help. From the top you get proper Aberdeenshire spread out below you: farmland, forest blocks, and on a clear day the Cairngorms doing their thing in the distance.

This is a solid outing for walkers who like a bit of elevation without needing technical kit. History buffs might appreciate that you're rambling across ground that's been worked and lived on for centuries, though there's nothing obvious to see up there besides the landscape itself. Families with keen young hikers will manage it fine; those expecting a gentle stroll might find it a bit steeper than anticipated.

Timing-wise, allow a couple of hours for the round trip depending on your pace and how long you fancy lingering at the top. The peak itself is fairly exposed, so go when the weather's cooperating - mist rolls in quick here and you'll see nothing. Best in spring or autumn when it's not baking and not soaked through.

If you're based at Hillhead Caravan Park just down the road, this makes a proper morning walk before a pub lunch back in Inverurie. It's not a destination you'd plan a holiday around entirely, but it's absolutely worth the detour when you're in the area exploring what Aberdeenshire's got going on.