Maol Beag

The walk up Maol Beag from Isle of Islay takes about two hours return, and it's genuinely one of those walks that rewards effort without demanding mountaineering skills. You're looking at a modest peak - 298 metres - but what makes it worth the leg work is the view across to Jura and the Paps, particularly on a clear day when you can see right across the Sound.

This isn't a technical climb. The path is boggy in places, properly boggy, and the terrain gets steeper as you go higher, but nothing that would trouble regular walkers. Most people tackle it as a morning excursion before heading into Islay's whisky distilleries or exploring the island's other lochs. The summit itself is bare and windswept - bring a waterproof even when it looks decent in the valley below.

Families with older kids (say, aged ten and up) will manage it fine, though younger children might find the final push tedious. It's free, naturally - just park sensibly near the trailhead and go. Allow a full three hours if you're not a quick mover or want to sit about at the top.

If you're staying at Islay Glamping Pods, this makes a perfect afternoon out. The walk breaks up a whisky-focused itinerary nicely, and honestly, if you've been tasting peaty malts all morning, getting some proper air is exactly what you need. The midges can be fierce in summer, so time your visit accordingly.