Knockan

The walk up Knockan from Keith is properly rewarding if you've got decent legs and a couple of hours to spare. It's not a massive peak - nothing that'll demand crampons or serious kit - but the climb is steep enough that you'll feel you've earned the view at the top. On a clear day, you can see right across Speyside, which makes the huffing and puffing worthwhile.

This is walker territory, really. Families with young kids might struggle with the gradient, though older children who enjoy a proper hill walk will get a kick out of it. The views alone are the draw here - moorland rolling away in all directions, and if you time it right you'll have the place largely to yourself. The approach from Keith is straightforward enough, taking you through mixed terrain that changes as you climb.

Allow a good two hours minimum for the round trip if you're a steady walker, longer if you want to linger at the top and take photos. There's no visitor centre or café at the summit, so bring water and a snack. Free to access, obviously - you're just walking up a Scottish hill.

If you're staying at Cairnty Lodges or Hillside Havens nearby, Knockan makes a proper day out without needing to drive far. It's the sort of outing that works well if you've had a relaxed morning at your accommodation and fancy some fresh air and proper views before heading back for dinner.