Meall nam Maigheach

The walk up Meall nam Maigheach from Killin takes you into proper hill country without the crowds you'd find on Ben Lawers just over the way. It's a straightforward ascent, nothing technical, but the views across Loch Tay and toward the wider Ben Lawers range make the effort worthwhile. From the summit at around 900 metres, on a clear day you can see right across Perthshire - the loch spreads out below like something from a postcard, though without the cheese factor.

Walkers with decent fitness will enjoy this one. It's not a casual afternoon stroll - allow three to four hours for the round trip - but it's far less demanding than its taller neighbours. The path is generally well-defined, though it gets boggy in places after rain. Families with older kids who don't mind a proper hill walk will manage fine; younger ones might struggle with the sustained gradient.

Timing matters here. Early morning gets you away from other hikers and gives the light a chance to work in your favour. Spring and autumn are best - summer can feel a bit damp and featureless, while winter demands proper mountain sense. There's no visitor centre or facilities on the hill itself, so come prepared with water and snacks.

If you're based at Loch Tay Highland Lodges nearby, this works perfectly as a morning excursion before heading back for lunch. It's the kind of walk that reminds you why the Scottish Highlands are worth the journey.