Meall an Doire Dhuinn

The walk up Meall an Doire Dhuinn is a proper Highland adventure without the queue. Starting near Fort William, you're looking at a straightforward hill rather than a technical scramble - steep in places, sure, but nothing that'll defeat a keen walker in reasonable fitness. The summit sits at 1,007 metres, which means the views across Glen Nevis and toward Ben Nevis itself are genuinely worth the leg work. On a clear day, you can see for miles across the high country.

It's not a tourist trap like some of the bigger peaks. You'll meet proper hillwalkers here rather than Instagram tourists in unsuitable trainers. Allow three to four hours for the round trip depending on your pace, and go early if it's summer - the light stays late but the midges don't care. This is one for people who actually enjoy walking rather than ticking off a list.

The practicalities are straightforward. It's free, naturally - all Scottish hills are. Good boots matter on the descent more than the way up. If the weather turns, turn back. That's not cowardice, that's sense. Combine it with Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park or Linnhe Lochside Holidays if you're basing yourself locally - both are close enough that you could do this as a full day without too much driving about. Winter climbs are serious business here, so autumn through early spring stick to the walking approach.