The Strone

The Strone rises sharp and sudden above Helensburgh, a proper little mountain that catches you off guard with how much effort it demands for barely 900 metres of height. The walk up is relentless - steep woodland at first, then bracken and heather as you break through the treeline. Your legs will know about it, but the reward is a view that sweeps across the Firth of Clyde to the Argyll hills beyond. On a clear day you can pick out Loch Eck to the northwest.

It's the kind of hill that appeals to walkers wanting something genuine but not all-consuming. Two, maybe two-and-a-half hours up and back, depending on fitness. The path is well-trodden and obvious, though it's muddy after rain - which here means often. Family groups with teenagers will manage it fine; younger kids might find the steepness tedious. There's nothing to do once you reach the top except stand around and admire the view, which some find enough and others find a bit thin.

Go early on a settled day, because the weather can close in quickly and then you're just walking through mist. Helensburgh itself is compact and unremarkable, but both Glenfinart Caravan Park and Inverbeg Holiday Park sit within an easy drive. Pair it with exploring the Argyll coast rather than making it your main event. The Strone works as a morning hike before lunch in town - proper use of a good forecast day.