Balmacara woodland walks

The woodland walks at Balmacara are a proper tonic if you're based anywhere near Kyle of Lochalsh. These trails cut through mixed native woodland with enough variety to keep you entertained for a solid couple of hours, though you can easily dip in and out depending on energy levels and how many kids are in tow.

You'll find yourself among birch, oak and pine, with the occasional glimpse of the surrounding hills and lochs. The paths are reasonably well-maintained, though some sections get boggy in wet weather - not uncommon in the Highlands, so decent boots are worth their weight. The real appeal here is the genuine sense of wildness without needing to be a serious hillwalker. It's accessible enough for families with school-age children, though younger ones might struggle with the longer loops.

The walks are free, which is refreshing. Allow anything from an hour for a short stroll to three hours if you're tackling the full network. Avoid peak summer weekends if crowds bother you; spring and autumn are cracking times, when the woodland feels quieter and the light is better for photography.

If you're staying at Reraig Caravan & Camping on Skye, just across the water, this makes an excellent half-day break from the park. It's close enough for a morning visit without eating up your whole day. The area works well alongside exploring Kyle itself and the broader Lochalsh countryside - think of it as a useful green space rather than a destination in its own right.