Cnoc an Lochain

A small loch tucked into the hills above Tarbert, Cnoc an Lochain is exactly the sort of spot that makes a Kintyre walk worthwhile. It's not dramatic - no Ben Lomond-style views here - but there's something properly peaceful about finding yourself beside still water with nothing but heather and moorland around you. The walk in takes twenty minutes or so depending on which route you pick, and the whole thing's free, naturally.

Families with older kids will get the most from this one. It's not a destination in itself, really - more of a full stop to a good afternoon's ramble. The water's too cold for swimming, and there's no facilities whatsoever, so come prepared with proper boots and a windproof. On a clear day you get views back towards the coast, which makes the effort pay off.

Worth timing for late afternoon when Tarbert's already buzzing with early-evening activity below. Stay at Tarbert Holiday Park for the convenience - it's barely two miles away - or push for The Gather if you want something with a bit more polish. Either way, Cnoc an Lochain works perfectly as a half-day excursion alongside village pottering and a decent meal back in town. It's not going to change your life, but it's a solid Argyll moment that most guidebooks completely ignore.