Dundreggan Forest

You'll find yourself surrounded by ancient Caledonian pine and birch the moment you step into Dundreggan Forest, just outside Beauly in the Scottish Highlands. It's one of those proper wild spaces that feels genuinely remote, even though it's only a few miles from civilisation. The forest sprawls across steep terrain - don't expect an easy stroll - with paths that wind through native woodland and open onto views across the Beauly Firth. There's real character here: gnarled old trees, streams running through ravines, the occasional surprise clearing where light floods in and you can actually see where you're going.

Walkers will get the most from this place. It's not a casual family toddle - the terrain demands respect and proper boots - but serious hikers and anyone who gets a kick from proper Highland scenery will find it worthwhile. Allow two to three hours for a decent circuit, longer if you're moving slowly or stopping constantly to catch your breath on the steeper bits. Bring a map. Phone signal is patchy at best.

The forest works brilliantly as a counterpoint to a Loch Ness Highland Resort stay, which sits just six miles away. After a day of Loch spotting and castle visiting, an afternoon getting lost in these woods feels like the real Highlands. It's free to access, open year-round, though winter mudslides and autumn scrambling can make it harder going. Spring is lovely - less crowded, decent daylight, and the new growth makes everything feel alive.