Geal Loch

The water here is properly dark and still, ringed by steep hills that make the whole place feel rather enclosed and serious. Geal Loch sits quietly in Argyll, a short drive from Arrochar, and it's the sort of spot you stumble upon rather than rush towards with great fanfare.

It's a straightforward affair - a small loch that rewards walkers more than casual drive-by visitors. The real appeal is getting boots on and heading up into the surrounding hills rather than standing by the water itself. In autumn the light gets lovely and low, which is when to visit if you can manage it. Summer weekends bring too many people from Glasgow trying to Instagram themselves.

If you're camping at Beinglas Campsite just down the road, this works as a decent morning walk before the midges get going. Loch Lomond Holiday Park is further afield but close enough if you're after a proper week in the area. Don't expect facilities or crowds - there's nothing at the loch itself, so come prepared with water and sense. Kids will manage the walk if they're the outdoorsy sort, but they'll get restless if you linger too long.

The loch itself isn't dramatic enough to justify a special trip on its own, but paired with walks in the Glen Kinglas valley or a broader exploration of Argyll's lochs, it slots in nicely. Allow two hours if you're just walking the periphery. It's free and always open, which is something.