Sìdhean Mòr

The walk up Sìdhean Mòr from Beauly takes you into proper Highland country, where the views across the Strathglass valley justify every step of the climb. It's not a technical scramble - more of a sustained hike that rewards your effort with the kind of vista that makes you understand why people move to Scotland and never leave.

The peak itself sits at around 982 metres, so you're getting genuine altitude without needing ropes or specialist kit. The path winds through moorland and woodland, and on a clear day you can see for miles across the Cairngorms. Walkers will appreciate the moderately challenging terrain and the sense of being properly away from things, though it's not so remote that you'll feel stranded if the weather turns.

Allow three to four hours for the round trip depending on your pace. There's no charge, and no facilities at the summit itself - bring water and something to eat. Spring through autumn is best; winter can be sketchy with snow at altitude.

If you're basing yourself at Cannich Woodland Camping and Caravan Park just down the road, Sìdhean Mòr makes an excellent day out. It's the sort of walk that clears your head without exhausting you completely, leaving energy for exploring Beauly itself or tackling another peak later in the week. Not Instagram-famous, which means fewer people clogging the path.