Blairbeg Park

The woodland paths at Blairbeg Park wind through proper Highland terrain, with native trees and the sort of quiet that makes you realise how much noise you've been carrying around. It's a nature reserve rather than a manicured park, which means expect muddy boots and birdsong instead of flowerbeds.

Walkers will get the most from this one. The trails loop through mixed woodland and open onto glimpses of the wider landscape - nothing dramatic, but genuinely pleasant. You're looking at anything from a gentle half-hour stroll to a couple of hours if you're thorough about it. Birdwatchers might actually get excited; I saw a decent variety on my visit. Families with young kids should manage the flatter sections without drama, though buggies would be a struggle on the rougher paths.

The big draw here is location. Drumnadrochit is only a short drive away, which means Blairbeg slots nicely into a Loch Ness itinerary without eating a whole day. Pop down to the water if you've time, then head back here for some quieter woodland time. Access and admission details aren't widely publicised, so phone ahead or check locally when you arrive - that's the Highland way.

Stay at Loch Ness Glamping or Loch Ness Shores if you want proper overnight comfort nearby, or push out to Highland Premier Glamping Pods if you want to explore more ground. The reserve works best on a dry day, which in the Scottish Highlands is never guaranteed.