Meluncart

The walk up Meluncart isn't exactly a secret among locals round Banchory, but it's the kind of hill that catches visitors off guard. You get serious Highland views without needing climbing gear or an early start - proper accessible but still with proper views.

The summit sits at around 600 metres, and the approach from Glen Dye is straightforward enough. What makes it worth the effort is how open it feels up there. On a clear day you can see across the Cairngorms, and the Aberdeenshire moorland rolls out below in a way that makes you forget you're only an hour or so from civilisation.

It's excellent for walkers wanting something real but not punishing - families with older kids manage it fine, and hill enthusiasts won't feel short-changed. Allow two to three hours for the round trip depending on pace. The terrain is mostly open moorland, so wind can be a factor; bring layers you actually want to wear.

If you're based at Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages nearby, this is a natural fit for a morning walk. It works well as part of a broader Cairngorms-area trip without eating a whole day. The closest facilities are back in Banchory itself, so sort yourself before heading out.

Timing matters. Go late spring through early autumn for the best conditions. Winter visits are possible but the weather turns fast up here, and you need proper experience if visibility drops.