The Stuic

The Stuic sits at 900 metres above sea level, offering views across the Cairngorms that genuinely take your breath away - partly from the altitude, partly from what you're seeing. It's a proper hill walk rather than a casual stroll, taking most people around two hours up from the car park near Ballater, so come prepared with decent boots and a waterproof.

What you get for your effort is a summit with real character. On a clear day the perspective across the eastern Highlands is remarkable - you can trace ridgelines for miles. The walk itself threads through moorland and feels genuinely wild without being technical, which is exactly why it suits a range of abilities. Families with older kids (say, eight and up) will manage it fine if they're used to hills; younger ones might find it a slog.

Timing matters here. Early morning in summer means you catch the light properly and dodge the afternoon cloud that rolls in most days. Winter approaches are only for experienced hill walkers with map skills. There's no facility at the summit itself - just you, the view, and the wind usually.

If you're camping at Braemar Caravan Park just down the road, The Stuic makes an excellent half-day venture. It's close enough to slot into a broader exploration of the area without eating a full day, yet substantial enough to feel like you've actually climbed something. Worth the legs, that one.