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.
9. Ben Lawers
Located with a national nature reserve next to Loch Tay, Ben Lawers is in the centre of a chain of seven munros and it is one of the highest in Scotland stretching 1,214 metres. | Duncan_Andison from Getty Images
10. An Stuc, Meall Garbh and Meall Greigh
An Stuc, Meall Garbh and Meall Greigh are all ascents connected to the Lawers range. An Stuc is slightly shorter than Ben Lawers highest peak at 1,118 metres (the same height as Meall Garbh.) | Duncan_Andison from Getty Images
11. Meall a’Choire Leith and Meall Corranaich
These two Munros can be found on the westward end of the Ben Lawers ridge. Meall a'Choire Leith stands at 926 metres tall while Meall Corranaich boasts a height of 1069 metres. | © Iain Russell
12. The Cairnwell
The Cairnwell is located in the Eastern Highlands south of Braemar. From the South on the drive to the Cairnwell Pass it looks cone-shaped. It stretches 933 metres. | via WikiCommons