Fiar Loch

A shallow loch tucked into the Highland landscape between Strathcarron and the coastal hills, Fiar Loch is the sort of place you stumble upon rather than deliberately hunt down. The water's dark and peaty, reflecting whatever sky decides to show up - which in these parts can change three times before lunch.

It's genuinely lovely for a quiet walk. The loch itself isn't massive, so you won't be here for hours, but the surrounding moorland gives you proper space to move around without bumping into crowds. The walk in from the nearest track is straightforward enough, though the ground can be boggy if it's been wet. Photographers might find the light interesting, especially in the golden hour when the water catches the glow. Kids will get bored fairly quickly unless they're the sort who enjoy splashing about or spotting birds - there's decent birdlife here if you're patient.

If you're staying at Shieldaig Camping & Cabins, about six miles away, this makes for a decent afternoon ramble to break up a park-based holiday. It's not a must-do, but it's the kind of spot that rewards a detour if you like your Scottish landscape a bit quieter and less polished than the postcard locations. Free to access, as with most lochs in the Highlands. Allow an hour or so including the walk in. Go on a clear day if you can - there's not much point coming here if the cloud's down to the hills.