Meall a' Choire Leith

The walk up Meall a' Choire Leith from Killin takes you into proper hill country without the relentless slog of the bigger peaks. It's a Munro Top rather than a full Munro, which means it's less crowded than its neighbours but still delivers serious views across Perthshire.

You're looking at a decent half-day outing from Killin - the approach is straightforward enough, gaining height gradually through moorland before the summit reveals itself. On a clear day the panorama across Loch Tay and towards Ben Lawers makes the effort worthwhile. It's the sort of walk where you can actually have a conversation on the way up, unlike some of the more punishing routes in the region.

Families with older kids and walkers who want a proper hill experience without Alpine rock scrambling will get the most from it. Anyone after a quick jaunt or looking for a push-button scenic spot should look elsewhere - this requires actual effort. The terrain is generally boggy underfoot, so decent boots matter.

Timing depends on fitness, but allow three to four hours for most people. There's no marked trail difficulty or seasonal restrictions that I'm aware of, though midges can be brutal in summer - go for spring or autumn if you can. Killin itself has shops and cafes for a decent lunch before or after.

If you're basing yourself at Loch Tay Highland Lodges, it's practically on your doorstep and makes a solid addition to a broader walking trip in the area.