Meallan Gobhar

The walk up Meallan Gobhar is a proper Highland grunt, but the payoff makes the sore legs worth it. This modest peak sits above Strathcarron in the northwest Highlands, offering views that stretch across Glen Carron and towards the wilder country beyond. It's not Liathach or one of the big draws - that's actually the point.

You're looking at a straightforward hill walk rather than a technical scramble. The path winds through rough moorland and patches of heather, the kind of terrain that demands proper boots and respect for the weather. On a clear day - and you need patience to catch one - the panorama sweeps across the surrounding glens. On a damp one, which is most days, you're essentially walking through cloud for the last stretch. Both have their charm.

Allow three to four hours return from the car park near Strathcarron. Solo walkers and small groups thrive here; families with younger kids might find the exposure on the upper sections a bit exposed for comfort. Hill runners occasionally use it as part of a longer day.

There's no admission fee - this is Scottish hill country, where you're mostly relying on finding a suitable spot to pull off the road and start walking. Shieldaig Camping & Cabins sits five miles away and makes a decent base if you're spending a few days exploring the area. Do it in decent conditions, bring a map regardless of how good the weather looks, and don't expect solitude on weekends.