Craigower

Craigower is a pine-clad hill of 407 metres above Pitlochry whose heathland summit opens onto one of the wide views of Highland Perthshire: the glassy lengths of Loch Tummel and Loch Rannoch to the west and, on a clear day, the peaks of Glencoe beyond. The National Trust for Scotland cares for the top of the hill, where scattered Scots pines shelter 15 kinds of butterfly and common lizards bask on the rocks, with buzzards and ravens overhead. The climb is short and steep from the forest tracks that start near Moulin, above Pitlochry's golf course, and several circular routes take in the hill. Reviewers say the views are worth the pull and the walk is not technically difficult. Tips from visitors: the nearest parking is a small lay-by a mile and a half from the summit with room for only a handful of cars, so it can fill; the summit is not suitable for wheelchairs; and follow the yellow waymarkers through the forest.