Meall a' Choire Riabhaich

The walk up Meall a' Choire Riabhaich from near Crieff is a proper Highland experience without needing to drive three hours north. At 813 metres, it's not a monster, but the climb is steep enough to feel like you've earned the views when you reach the top. On a clear day you can see across to the Trossachs and down towards Strathearn - the kind of vista that makes you understand why people keep coming back to Perthshire.

This is a hill for walkers with decent fitness and good boots. It's not a casual stroll and the terrain gets boggy in places, especially after rain. Allow three hours return from the car park, longer if you want to sit about at the summit and actually enjoy it. The path is reasonably well marked, though navigation can be tricky in mist - bring a map and compass or a working phone signal.

Crieff sits bang on your doorstep if you're staying at Craighead Howf, Twenty Shilling Wood, or Comrie Holiday Park - all of them five-star rated and within spitting distance. They're decent bases for exploring this stretch of Tayside. The peak works best on that rare clear morning when everything's sharp and the light's proper golden. Rainy days? Better to stay at the holiday park and visit Crieff town instead.