Sgùrr na h-Ulaidh

The walk up Sgùrr na h-Ulaidh is a proper hill-bagging day out from Ballachulish. You're looking at roughly 900 metres of climbing to reach the summit, which sits above the Glencoe area with views that stretch across to Ben Nevis on a clear day. The route starts from the Glen Etive side and winds through moorland before the terrain gets steeper - it's not a casual stroll, but it's doable for anyone with decent hill fitness and appropriate kit.

This is one for walkers with a few Scottish peaks under their belt, rather than families after a gentle afternoon. Allow a solid five to six hours round trip including time at the top. The views reward the effort - that westerly vantage point over the hills is worth the leg-ache, especially if you time it for late afternoon light. Weather matters enormously up here; pick a settled day or you'll be walking in cloud. Red Squirrel Campsite is just 3.5 miles away and makes a cracking base, while Invercoe Caravan Park is equally handy for exploring the wider Glencoe hiking scene. No visitor facilities at the summit itself, so pack water and a decent sandwich. Free to walk, naturally.