Little Duncolm

Little Duncolm is a modest peak that punches above its weight if you're after a proper Scottish hill walk without the commitment of Benlomond itself. It's reachable from near Glasgow - roughly an hour's drive puts you at the foot of it - and makes for a cracking afternoon outing, especially if you're staying at one of the Loch Lomond campsite nearby like Loch Lomond Retreat.

The ascent isn't brutal. You're looking at maybe two to three hours round trip depending on fitness and how often you stop for photos. The views from the top sweep across the southern Highlands and down towards the loch itself. It's the sort of walk where you actually feel like you've accomplished something without needing full mountaineering kit.

This works brilliantly for families who've got older kids - say ten and up - who can handle a steady climb but might balk at full-day expeditions. If you're a keen hillwalker integrating this into a broader Loch Lomond trip, Little Duncolm fits nicely as a warm-up or a lower-stakes alternative on dodgy weather days. Solitary walkers and photographers will appreciate the quieter angles it offers.

Access is straightforward and free, though you'll need decent boots and weather-appropriate kit. The walk is best tackled from spring through autumn. If you're camping nearby, base yourself at Loch Lomond Retreat - it's well-run and gives you easy access to this and larger peaks in the region.