Shillofad

Shillofad is a proper hill walk rather than a tourist attraction with facilities, so come prepared. It's a modest peak in the Aberdeenshire highlands that rewards you with decent views across the Dee valley and towards Lochnagar on a clear day. The walk itself takes around two to three hours depending on your pace and route choice, and it's the kind of place where you'll see more red grouse than people.

This isn't a destination for the idle stroll. You need reasonable fitness and appropriate footwear - the terrain gets boggy in places, particularly after rain. The views alone won't set your heart racing, but there's something genuinely satisfying about being up here without the crowds you'd find on the more famous peaks. It suits walkers who know what they're after rather than families after a quick photo opportunity.

If you're based at one of the caravan parks near Banchory - Banchory Lodge or Feughside are both within five miles - Shillofad makes a solid morning or afternoon excursion. You'll want to park in the Glen Dye area and head off from there. There's no charge, no gates, no visitor centre nonsense. Just take water, wear layers because the weather changes fast up here, and don't attempt it in poor visibility unless you know what you're doing with a map and compass. On a decent day in spring or early autumn, when the midges aren't fierce, it's a cracking bit of walking.