For many tourists visiting Scotland, Edinburgh is the focal point of the journey - but that doesn't mean that the rugged landscapes of Scotland are inaccessible.
Arthur's Seat is a popular choice, but for some hill walkers it may not present enough of a challenge - which is why it's fortunate there are plenty of Munros close enough to the capital that they can be incorporated into a day trip.
In Scotland, mountains with an elevation of more than 3,000 feet (914.4 metres) are called Munros.
There are 282 Munros in Scotland, many of which are named Ben, and they can be "bagged" by reaching the summit. Many dedicated mountaineers look to become "completers" and join the ranks of those who have climbed every Munro in the country.
But if you're looking to start small and enjoy breath-taking views of the Scottish countryside, for more than one reason, here are 21 hikes you can choose from without venturing too far north.

13. Carn a’Gheoidh
Carn a’Gheoidh is a conical hill with a gently rounded summit which rises above the Spittal of Glenshee. This Munro stands at 975 metres. | © John Allan

14. Càrn Aosda
Also among the Cairnwell Hills, Carn Aosda can be found eight miles south of Braemar. It is called an ‘exceptionally easy ascent’ as it starts at 650 metres with a track leading hill walkers to its summit. | © bill copland

15. Carn an Tuirc
Carn an Tuirc is a munro in the Mounth region of the Grampian Mountains and the most northerly one of the ‘Glenshee 9’. The boulder-covered hill stretches 1,019 metres. | © Trevor Littlewood

16. Cairn of Claise
Also located in the Grampians of Scotland, Cairn of Claise is situated roughly three miles from the Glenshee Ski Center near Braemar village. The munro is 1,064 metres in height. | © Iain Russell


