Meallan Odhar

The walk up Meallan Odhar isn't long, but it's steep enough to make you work for the views. This modest Highland peak sits just south of Fort Augustus, rising to around 800 metres, and on a clear day you get proper panoramic sight lines across the Great Glen and down toward Loch Ness. The ascent takes roughly an hour from the road, depending on fitness and how often you stop to catch your breath. Most folk approach from the A82 side, where you'll find reasonable parking and a fairly obvious path up through heather and moorland. The terrain is rough - watch your ankles on loose stones - but nothing technical.

It's a cracking spot for hill walkers who want something between a casual stroll and a proper mountain slog. Families with older kids (10+) manage it fine on decent weather days. The summit itself is unremarkable - just windswept moorland - but that's almost the point. You're here for the view back toward Fort Augustus and the glen below, not for any dramatic peak drama.

In winter or wet conditions, give it a miss unless you know what you're doing. The exposed ground becomes slippery fast. Spring through autumn works well, though midges can be savage in July and August if there's no wind.

If you're staying at Loch Ness Highland Resort nearby, this makes a solid half-day outing before heading off to explore the loch itself. Not a destination in itself, but a worthwhile detour if you're passing through the Great Glen.