Red Craig

The walk up Red Craig rewards you with proper Highland views, even if the peak itself is modest by Scottish standards. It's a straightforward trudge from Aboyne - nothing technical, just steady climbing through moorland and patches of forest until you break out onto the open ridge. The trig point marks the summit at 497 metres, and on a clear day you get sweeping sight lines across Deeside and into the Cairngorms beyond.

This is ideal terrain for families with older kids and anyone after a half-day outing without serious scrambling. Allow three to four hours round trip from the car park, depending on fitness and how long you linger at the top. The path can be boggy in places - proper boots essential - and the wind can bite once you're exposed, so check the forecast before heading out.

It fits well into a caravan holiday based at either Aboyne Loch or the quieter Tarland site just up the road. Both are well-positioned for this walk and the broader Deeside attractions. Red Craig itself won't take your whole day, which means you can combine it with a drive down to Balmoral or a potter round Aboyne village. The walk is free, obviously - just turn up and go. Peak summer months get busy on weekends, so consider an off-season visit if you prefer solitude. Winter ascents are possible but the exposed ridge gets properly icy.