Meall Loch Laoigh

The walk up Meall Loch Laoigh rewards you with proper Highland views without being a slog. It's a modest peak - just over 700 metres - but the approach from near Tain takes you through genuine wild country where you'll barely see another soul.

The route itself winds through moorland with decent paths underfoot, and the summit gives you that satisfying 360-degree perspective across the Black Isle and towards Ben Wyvis. On a clear day the visibility is excellent. Most walkers will manage it in three to four hours round trip, depending on fitness and how long you want to sit about at the top.

This is one for people who actually enjoy walking rather than those after an Instagram moment. There's no cafe, no facilities, no drama - just you, heather, and sky. Families with older kids (say, eight and up) who don't mind a proper hike will get plenty from it. Those expecting something genteel should look elsewhere.

If you're staying at Dornoch Caravan & Camping Park - the better rated of the two local options - you're only twenty minutes away. Parkdean's Grannie's Heilan' Hame is closer still but the reviews suggest it's a bit dated. Either way, slot this in as a half-day activity between the coast and whatever else you're doing in Sutherland.

Cost you nothing, mind. Just your time and decent boots.