Hill of Kinnoir

The walk up Kinnoir is properly rewarding - a steep pull from the Huntly side that takes maybe forty minutes if you're fit, longer if you're not. The summit itself isn't dramatic, just a cairn and open moorland, but the views across Aberdeenshire are extensive. Clear day and you'll see well into the Highlands proper. It's the sort of walk that appeals to serious hikers wanting something achievable without a full day's commitment, rather than casual strollers. Families with older kids who don't mind a lung-buster might manage it, but the route's rough underfoot and there's no shelter up top.

The hill sits roughly twenty minutes from Huntly itself, close enough that you could easily combine it with exploring the castle town. If you're based at Huntly Castle Holiday Park, it's virtually on your doorstep - two and a half miles south gives you a legitimate reason to get out and do something properly outdoorsy rather than lingering around the caravan park. Stick to the main path up from the south side; the moorland can be boggy and navigation's tricky in poor visibility.

Go in late spring or early autumn when midges are less vicious and the light's best. Summer gets busy on decent weekends. Allow two hours round trip including stops for breathing and photos. Free, obviously. Not a destination in itself, but absolutely worth the effort if you're already in the area.