Meallach Beag

The walk up Meallach Beag from Newtonmore takes you through proper Highland terrain - moorland that shifts colour with the season, then steeper ground towards the summit. It's not a massive peak by any stretch, but the views back down the Spey Valley make the effort worthwhile. You're looking at a solid couple of hours up and back, depending on fitness and how often you stop for breath.

This is one for walkers rather than casual strollers. The path can be boggy lower down, and there's genuine climbing involved towards the top. Kids aged ten and up would manage it fine on a clear day, though younger ones might find it a bit relentless. The reward is quiet - you won't find crowds here like you would on Ben Nevis or the more famous Cairngorm peaks.

Newtonmore sits right at the gateway to these hills, making it a logical base for a few days of Highland walking. Invernahavon Caravan Park is just a few miles away if you're after somewhere to park up, and the location puts you close enough to explore the broader Spey Valley without constantly moving your accommodation.

Go in decent weather. Mist rolls in fast at this elevation, and the moorland all looks the same when visibility drops. Summer's your safest bet, though spring and autumn can throw up proper clear days too. It's free to walk, obviously - just turn up and go.