Sgùrr a' Mhàim

The climb up Sgùrr a' Mhàim rewards you with views that stretch across the Grey Corries and down towards Kinlochleven - if you time it right and the cloud lifts. This isn't a gentle walk. It's a proper uphill slog through moorland and scree, gaining around 900 metres, and most people allow three to four hours for the round trip from the car park.

Walkers come here for the scrambling sections near the summit and the sense of proper achievement at the top. It's not a casual stroll, so families with young kids should think twice unless they're experienced hillwalkers. The weather in the Highlands changes fast, so bring layers and waterproofs even when it looks fine in the valley below.

Free to walk, naturally - it's Scottish mountain terrain. Early morning starts pay off: fewer people and clearer visibility before the afternoon mist rolls in. Allow a full day if you're not the fastest on ascents.

If you're based at Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park or Blackwater Hostel, Glamping & Campsite near Kinlochleven, Sgùrr a' Mhàim slots nicely into a week tackling the Ben Nevis area hills. It's more rewarding than many Scottish peaks at this height, without the crowds that plague Ben Nevis itself. The mountain doesn't care if you're after a quick tick or a proper challenge - it'll teach you either way.