Meallach Mhòr

The walk up Meallach Mhòr takes you into proper hill country, rising to 901 metres above Newtonmore. It's a solid day out rather than a scramble - the terrain's mostly grassy and manageable, though the wind up top can be fierce. You'll get expansive views across the Monadhliath Mountains, especially on a clear day when you can pick out the shape of the landscape for miles. In winter it can feel considerably more serious, so don't underestimate it just because the height sounds modest.

This one appeals to regular hill walkers more than casual strollers. You're looking at three to four hours round trip depending on your pace and fitness, starting from the glen below Newtonmore. It's not technically difficult but it's exposed, so decent boots and weather sense matter. The approach is straightforward enough - follow the track eastward and up - though the final push to the summit gets steeper. Families with older kids who've got some hills under their belts will manage fine. Younger children might find it a grind.

Free to walk, obviously. The best window is late spring through early autumn when the weather's more predictable and the light lingers longer. If you're staying at Invernahavon Caravan Park just six miles away, it's an excellent morning or afternoon mission to break up a park-based holiday. The mountain sits in wild, quiet country - you won't feel crowded. Just bring waterproofs and don't rely on mobile signal up there.