Sron nan Gabhar

The walk up Sron nan Gabhar isn't flashy, which is probably why it doesn't get rammed with tourists. Starting from near Ballater, you're looking at a proper hill walk rather than a stroll - the peak sits at 621 metres and the approach is steep enough to make your legs feel it. The name means 'peak of the goats' in Gaelic, and yes, you might spot them up there if you're lucky.

What you get for your effort is a cracking viewpoint over the Dee Valley and out towards Lochnagar when the weather behaves. On a clear day it's genuinely worth the sweat. Allow three to four hours return depending on fitness - it's not a technical climb, just relentless uphill going out and careful footing coming down. The summit's a bit exposed so wind can be fierce; I've seen conditions change fast up there.

Families with older kids will manage it fine, though younger ones might find it tedious without the dramatic scenery of something like Ben Avon nearby. Solo walkers and anyone after a decent Highland workout will get the most from it. There's no visitor facility at the top and it's free, naturally - just you and the hills.

If you're based at Braemar Caravan Park, this sits well within a morning's expedition. Combine it with lower-level walks in the area and you've got a solid day. Mornings are best - the weather window up here closes fast, often by afternoon.