Meall Voirlich

The walk up Meall Voirlich rewards you with views across Loch Awe that justify the effort - though it's not a gentle amble. Starting from near Taynuilt, you're looking at a proper hill climb, gaining height steadily until the landscape opens up and that enormous freshwater loch spreads out below you.

At 949 metres, it's high enough to feel like an achievement but not so steep that it demands specialist kit. The final push to the summit can be boggy in places - trainers aren't ideal here. Allow three to four hours for the round trip if you're moderately fit. Go when the weather's settled; mist swallows the views entirely and there's nothing worse than climbing blind.

History enthusiasts will notice the landscape around you tells its own story, with the loch itself featured prominently in the region's past. Families with older kids (teenagers upwards) will find this a genuine day out rather than a quick stroll, so manage expectations accordingly.

If you're camping at Loch Awe Holiday Park, this is a sensible pick for a full day activity. The park sits right by the water, so you can base yourself there and tackle Meall Voirlich as your main event. The walk itself is free - just park sensibly near the trailhead and get on with it. Weather in the Argyll hills changes fast, so start early and bring waterproofs regardless of the forecast.