Mither Tap fort

The climb up Mither Tap is steep and properly relentless, but worth every lung-busting step. This Iron Age fort sits 643 metres up on an isolated hill near Pitfichie in Aberdeenshire, and the views from the summit sweep across the Highlands in every direction. You'll find the remains of ancient defensive walls and structures up there - the fort itself dates back around two thousand years, and standing amongst the stones gives you a genuine sense of how strategically important this high ground was.

It's a solid two-hour round trip from the car park depending on your fitness level. The path is well-trodden but exposed, so check the weather before you head up. Families with older kids who can handle the gradient will find it properly rewarding, though younger children might struggle with the endurance required. There's nothing to buy up there, so bring water and snacks.

Historically minded walkers will absolutely rate this. The fort's positioning tells a story about ancient settlement and defence that you simply can't get from a museum. It's free to visit and opens all year, though winter conditions can make the path treacherous.

If you're staying at nearby Glamping Bothie, this makes a cracking day walk that ties into a broader tour of Aberdeenshire's archaeological sites. The landscape here feels genuinely remote despite being only a few miles from civilisation.