Sgorr Dhearg

Getting to the top of Sgorr Dhearg takes real commitment. This isn't a gentle stroll - it's a proper mountain that demands respect, with steep scrambling in places and views that stretch all the way to Ben Nevis on a clear day. You're looking at around three hours up and down from Ballachulish, so pack water and check the weather before you set off.

The route climbs through moorland and then gets technical near the summit, with some genuine scrambling involved. That last push rewards you with genuine solitude and the kind of panorama that makes your legs stop hurting. It's a walkers' mountain, not a family picnic spot - anyone under ten would likely struggle with the scrambling sections.

This is one for people who actually enjoy the graft of hillwalking rather than those after an easy summit tick. The views across Glen Coe are remarkable, though you'll earn every bit of them.

Stay at Red Squirrel Campsite, which is just four miles away and sits at 4.8 out of 5 for a reason - proper Highland hospitality. Invercoe is only 3.4 miles away if you prefer something larger. Both work well as bases for tackling Sgorr Dhearg and exploring the wider Glen Coe area. Go early to claim parking space at the start of the route. There's no charge to climb it, and it's free from crowds on most days.