Tom Dubh

Tom Dubh sits just outside Fort William, a modest peak that punches above its weight if you're after a proper hill walk without the full Ben Nevis commitment. It's not high - around 900 metres - but the views across Glen Nevis and towards the bigger mountains are genuinely impressive, especially on a clear day when you can see right down the glen towards Loch Linnhe.

The walk itself is straightforward enough, probably forty minutes to an hour depending on fitness, and the paths are well-trodden without being crowded. You'll get the sense of achievement without spending half your holiday trudging uphill. It suits walkers who want something between a stroll and a full mountain expedition, and families with teenagers will manage it fine - younger kids might find it a bit of a slog.

There's no visitor centre or facilities at the summit, just you and the landscape. Bring water and decent shoes. The weather changes fast in the Highlands, so check conditions before you go - I've seen it go from sunshine to driving rain in twenty minutes up there.

If you're staying at Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping Park or Ben Nevis Holiday Park just down the road, Tom Dubh makes an excellent morning or afternoon outing. It's close enough that you won't waste a day getting there, but far enough from the Ben Nevis crowds that you'll feel like you've discovered something slightly quieter. Linnhe Lochside Holidays puts you equally well positioned. Pick a decent weather window and get up there.