Loch a' Choire Bhuidhe

The loch sits high in the glens south of Inverness, a proper remote spot that demands a bit of effort to reach but rewards you with absolute silence and water so still it looks like dark glass. Loch a' Choire Bhuidhe isn't a destination you stumble upon - you have to want it. The walk in takes you through Caledonian forest and moorland, gradually climbing until the water appears below you, cradled by steep hillsides. No crowds. No facilities. Just the Highlands doing what they do best.

This is walkers' territory, full stop. Families with young kids will struggle with the approach; most adults will manage it fine but it's not a casual stroll. The loch itself is cold, clear, and completely untamed - swimming is possible if you're brave, though the water never properly warms. If you're into wild camping or fishing, this is the real deal. Photographers turn up for the light at dusk when the hills turn purple.

The nearest proper base is Inverness, about 30 minutes' drive away. For a park stay, Loch Ness Glamping sits just 4.8 miles off and rates brilliantly - makes sense as a comfortable home while you explore the quieter glens. Cannich Woodland is slightly further but excellent if you want woodland immersion. Both give you civilisation at night and wilderness by day, which is exactly how Highland holidays should work. Visit in May or September when the midges aren't quite so vicious.