The Socach

The walk up Socach from Strathdon feels properly rewarding for the effort - it's not a mammoth hill, but it's steep enough that you'll feel it in your legs. The peak itself sits at 1,019 metres, offering views across the Cairngorms that stretch for miles on a clear day. Bring a decent map and compass; the summit's cairn marks the spot where three valleys meet, and in cloud cover it's easy to wander off line.

This is walker territory, pure and simple. You're looking at roughly two hours to the top from the road, perhaps a bit longer if you're taking it leisurely or stopping for photos. The terrain's a mix of moorland and rough grass, with sections that get boggy after rain - proper hill boots are non-negotiable. Families with older kids (10 plus, ideally) who are used to uphill slogs will manage fine, but this isn't a stroll for smaller legs.

Go when the weather's cooperative; Scottish hill weather changes in minutes, so start early and keep an eye on the forecast. Summer months give you the longest daylight and drier ground underfoot. It's free to climb, naturally - just park at the trailhead and get on with it.

If you're basing yourself at Cairngorms Glamping & Campsite just five miles away, Socach makes a proper morning's work before lunch. It slots nicely into a week of Cairngorms exploration without being overwhelming. Not Instagram-famous, which honestly works in its favour - you won't be queuing to descend.