Meall na Fuar-ghlaic

The walk up Meall na Fuar-ghlaic is a proper hill rather than a mountain, which makes it exactly the sort of thing that rewards a morning's effort without requiring you to book a day off work. It's about forty minutes from Inverness, sitting in the Highlands proper, and the ascent is steep in places but mercifully short - most folk bag it in under three hours return.

What you get for your trouble is excellent. The views across the Great Glen are genuinely impressive on a clear day, with Ben Nevis visible to the southwest if you're lucky with the weather. The path itself isn't fancy - rough underfoot, muddy in wet spells - but it keeps you moving upwards without feeling like a slog. The summit isn't dramatic, just a rocky outcrop surrounded by heather and moorland that stretches forever.

This is a walker's hill rather than a casual stroll. Families with older kids who've done a few hills before would manage it fine. Those based at Go Glamping at Loch Ness nearby have a cracking spot to explore without needing to drive far. In autumn the light hits these slopes beautifully around mid-morning, so go early if you want photos worth keeping.

Free to access, obviously - it's a Scottish hill. Allow three hours return if you're a moderate pace, maybe four if you're taking your time with views. The exposed position means weather can turn fast, so check conditions before setting out and bring a waterproof regardless.