Glensherup Reservoir

Water stretches out calm and wide between the rolling hills, and you're standing at one of Perthshire's quieter reservoirs. Glensherup Reservoir sits just outside Auchterarder, a proper spot for walkers and anyone who fancies a bit of peace without the crowds. The water itself is lovely - the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which counts for something these days.

There's a decent walk around the perimeter if your legs are up for it, or you can simply park up and watch the water. Birdwatchers do well here; the reservoir attracts everything from grebes to the odd osprey if you're lucky. No fishing permits seem to be required for a casual visit, though you'd want to ring ahead to confirm what's currently permitted. It's free to visit and you can spend as little as half an hour or make an afternoon of it.

If you're staying at one of the nearby holiday parks - Alexander House is closest at under 4 miles, or the brilliant Fossoway Cabins just over 5 miles away - this works as a proper leg-stretcher without requiring a long drive. The landscape around here is classic Tayside: gentle rather than dramatic, which means families with younger kids won't find themselves on anything too taxing. Winter visits can be bracing but atmospheric; summer brings midges, so come prepared. It's the kind of place that won't blow your mind, but it'll do the job if you want somewhere quiet to decompress during a park holiday.