Tornaveen Hill

The walk up Tornaveen Hill is short, sharp, and over before you know it - about 20 minutes if you're moving at a decent pace. You get proper Highland views from the top without needing a full day's commitment or technical kit, which makes it ideal if you're staying at Greenpark Leisure nearby and want something quick before lunch.

The hill itself sits just above the village it's named after, so parking and access are straightforward. It's the kind of place that rewards a clear day generously - on a good one you can pick out the shape of the landscape for miles. On a grey day, it's a bit dull to be honest, so pick your weather.

Families with kids aged eight upwards will manage it easily. Younger ones might struggle with the steeper bits and could get fed up on the descent. It's not a slog, but it's not flat either. There's nothing at the summit itself - no café, no viewpoint marker, no facilities - so come prepared with water and snacks.

Worth the detour if you're based at Greenpark Leisure and want to stretch your legs with a genuine hill under your feet rather than a gentle woodland amble. If you're passing through Aberdeenshire for other reasons, slot it in if conditions are decent. Don't make a special trip from Aberdeen if the weather's iffy.