Sròn na Gaoithe

The walk up Sròn na Gaoithe is a proper Highland grunt, but the views from the top make every step worthwhile. Rising above Newtonmore, this peak sits at 920 metres and delivers that satisfying sense of achievement you get from climbing something with a name that takes three attempts to pronounce. The route itself isn't technical - no scrambling needed - but it's steep enough in places to get your heart rate up. Most walkers tackle it in around three to four hours return, depending on fitness and how many times you stop to catch your breath and stare at the Cairngorms stretching out in front of you. On a clear day, the views over the Spey Valley are genuinely stunning. On a grey one, you'll mostly see mist and regret not checking the forecast. Go in the morning if you can. The weather in the Scottish Highlands changes like a moody teenager, and afternoon cloud tends to roll in. The peak itself gets busy on summer weekends, which is odd considering how exposed it feels up there. Families with older kids will manage fine - younger ones might find the climb tedious without proper bribing snacks. If you're staying at Invernahavon Caravan Park just down the road, this makes an ideal half-day outing that won't leave you floored for the evening. Free to walk, obviously. Just park sensibly near Newtonmore and respect the land.