Hill of Inverkindling

The walk up Hill of Inverkindling rewards you with proper views across Aberdeenshire's rolling farmland, and on a clear day you can see right down to the Moray coast. It's not a dramatic peak - nothing like the Cairngorms - but that's rather the point. This is accessible hillwalking without the scramble or the crowds.

The terrain is moorland and rough grass, so sturdy boots matter. Allow a couple of hours return depending on fitness, though you could stretch it with a picnic at the top. Locals reckon the best time is late spring or early autumn when midges aren't out in force and the light stays longer.

Families with older children will manage it fine; younger legs might find it a slog. Serious walkers often use it as part of a longer route through the area rather than a standalone destination. There's no visitor infrastructure on the hill itself - bring water, snacks, and a map.

Banff sits close by and makes a reasonable base, though if you're staying at Sandend Holidays or Greencraig Pods - both within six miles - you've got a pretty convenient starting point. Hillhead Hideaways, the slightly posher option just over six miles away, works too. The walk fits neatly into a park holiday itinerary for a half-day outing, and it beats spending another afternoon at the caravan site if the weather holds. Free to access, naturally.