Fraoch Eilean Castle (ruins)

A crumbling fortress on a wee island in Loch Awe - that's Fraoch Eilean Castle, and frankly it's more about the journey than the destination. The ruins themselves are modest, a medieval keep reduced to atmospheric rubble that rises from the loch's edge near Taynuilt. You won't spend hours poking around the stones, but the setting makes up for it entirely.

Getting there involves either a boat trip or wading depending on water levels, which adds a bit of adventure to the whole affair. It's the sort of place that appeals to history types and photographers rather than kids after thrills - there's not much to climb or explore once you're there, just crumbling walls and views across the water. Water sports enthusiasts based at Loch Awe Holiday Park, just down the road, sometimes make it part of a wider day out on the loch.

Timing-wise, you're looking at a couple of hours maximum, including the boat bit. Summer's obviously your best bet when the weather's cooperable and the loch is busier with activity. It's free to visit, assuming you can sort your own transport to the island - there's no official ferry or visitor infrastructure, which means it suits the self-sufficient crowd rather than the casual tripper.

Honestly? It's worth the detour if you're already spending time on Loch Awe, but don't rearrange your holiday plans just for these ruins. The loch itself is the real draw.