The Hill of Dunnideer gives a very short ascent. It is well worthwhile, however, as it is crowned by an ancient hillfort, the ruins of a medieval castle - and last but not least - superb views out of proportion to the effort involved.
Summary
Short walk up grassy path - but steep.
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1. To reach the parking layby, take Western Road in Insch; the parking area is on the left about a kilometre from the edge; it is marked by a blue post. There is an information board giving some details about the iron age hillfort on the summit, of which there have been at least two constructed at different times. The hill looks very near from here but requires a bit more effort than that first glance might suggest; begin through the kissing-gate and turn right to ascend alongside the fence. Already the views back over Insch are good.
2. At the top of the field go through the gate - with the fingerpost - and continue up the now open hill. The remains of the forts are almost imperceptable to the layman but are crossed in at least two bands on the final part of the ascent until the flat summit is reached. Much more obvious are the remains of the castle, a simple rectangular tower. It is thought that this was one of the earliest castles in Scotland, dating back to 1260.
3. It is the views that are perhaps the biggest reward for the short ascent. The similar Hill of Christkirk is to the south, with the summits of Bennachie easily recognised to the left. The Tap o'Noth - site of a much larger hillfort - is prominent in the west. The return walk is back down the way you came.
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