Greenan Loch

The water here is seriously dark, almost black in certain lights, which gives Greenan Loch a slightly moody character that photographs surprisingly well on grey Scottish days. It's a fairly modest body of water near Dunoon, the kind of place you'd stumble upon while driving through Argyll rather than specifically seek out, but it's worth a brief stop if you're in the area.

Walking the shoreline takes maybe 45 minutes to an hour depending on how much you potter about. The banks are accessible and gentle enough for families, though little ones will need watching near the water's edge. You get decent views across to the surrounding hills, and on a clear day it's altogether pleasant. The main pull here is the sense of peace - you won't find crowds or facilities, which appeals to some and frustrates others.

It works best as part of a broader Argyll exploration rather than a destination in itself. If you're staying at Beach House Pods nearby, Greenan Loch is an easy leg-stretch between bigger attractions. Bring binoculars if you're keen on birdwatching. The water level fluctuates seasonally, so spring and summer offer the most appealing landscape. Autumn's also decent if the weather holds. Winter can be windswept and miserable, truth be told.

Free to visit, obviously. Allow an hour if you're stopping properly, 20 minutes if you're just passing through. It's a working part of the local landscape rather than a polished tourist spot, which some folk will love and others will find a touch underwhelming.