Meall a' Bhalach

The walk up Meall a' Bhalach from Kinlochleven is straightforward enough, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's a doddle. This 806-metre peak sits right above the town, making it accessible for a half-day outing without needing to drive elsewhere - proper handy if you're based at Blackwater Hostel or the surrounding campsites.

The ascent takes roughly two hours from the town centre, climbing through moorland with views opening up across Glencoe and towards Ben Nevis on clear days. It's the kind of walk that rewards you without demanding mountaineering experience. The summit itself is windswept and exposed, but the panorama justifies the effort. You're looking down onto the Blackwater Reservoir and across to the big peaks beyond.

Who'll enjoy it? Walkers after a solid Highland day out without the commitment of Ben Nevis or the Three Sisters nearby. Families with teenagers will find it manages the distance-to-reward ratio well. Young kids might struggle with the altitude gain, though it's not technical. The path isn't always obvious in bad weather, so don't attempt it in thick cloud unless you know what you're doing.

Allow three to four hours return from Kinlochleven town, including a break at the top. Spring through autumn is best - winter can be grim and icy. It's free to walk, obviously, and pairs well with exploring Kinlochleven's old industrial heritage or basing a longer trip around Glencoe's other peaks. The town's only small, but it's got cafes and a hostel to fuel the walk.