Monadh Driseig

The walk up Monadh Driseig from Taynuilt is a proper hill rather than a stroll - you're looking at a steep haul to just under 800 metres, and the path doesn't hold back on the gradient. What you get for the effort is a viewpoint that dominates the eastern side of Loch Awe, with decent sight lines across the water to Ben Cruachan on the western flank. The peak itself is moorland, open and windswept, nothing fancy in terms of summit features.

This one suits hillwalkers more than casual visitors. You'll need proper boots and shouldn't attempt it in poor visibility - the terrain is exposed and navigation matters. Most people spend two to three hours on the ascent and descent, so half a day minimum. The reward isn't a dramatic panorama; it's the working climber's satisfaction of steady elevation gain and a proper perspective on Loch Awe's scale.

If you're based at Loch Awe Holiday Park down the road, it's a solid option for a day with decent weather and decent fitness. Solo walkers will find it straightforward enough, though families with young legs should probably scout easier routes first - there are gentler lochside walks nearby that'll save the drama for another trip. Spring and early summer are best; winter conditions can make the exposed sections dicey. Free to access, naturally, being Scottish moorland.