Scraulac

The walk up Scraulac from Ballater is a proper leg-stretcher without being brutal. You're looking at a decent climb to reach the summit, but the effort pays off once you've crested the ridge - the views across the Cairngorms are frankly excellent, especially on a clear day when you can pick out Ben Muick Khnochat and the wider mountain range to the west.

It's a straightforward fell walk rather than a technical scramble, so anyone with reasonable fitness will manage it. The path is well-worn and reasonably clear, though you'll want decent boots given the Scottish weather can turn on a sixpence. Give yourself a good three to four hours for the round trip depending on fitness, plus time to sit and absorb the views at the top.

This works brilliantly as part of a wider walking holiday in the area. Ballater itself is a proper little base - close enough to Cairngorms National Park without being overrun. Stay at Cairngorms Glamping & Campsite or Howe of Torbeg if you want something with decent facilities, then day-walk Scraulac alongside other nearby peaks. It's the kind of outing that appeals to hillwalkers keen to rack up summits but not looking for anything too committing.

Early morning's your best bet weather-wise, and definitely go during settled conditions. The ridge can be exposed and unforgiving in wind or mist. Solo walkers do it regularly, families with teenagers find it manageable, but younger kids might find the climb tedious.