Loch an Aigeil

The water here is properly still. Loch an Aigeil sits in the far northwest of the Highlands, near Sutherland, and it's the kind of place you stumble upon rather than plan for. There's no visitor centre, no facilities, no fanfare - just a loch that reflects the moorland and sky back at itself like dark glass.

It's a quiet spot for walkers and photographers. The surrounding terrain is open moorland, heather and bog, which means the light changes dramatically across the day. Early morning is worth the effort if you're staying nearby. The loch itself isn't dramatic in the way Torridon or Assynt lochs are - it won't take your breath away - but that's partly the point. It rewards the people who appreciate subtlety.

You'll want an hour or so, maybe two if you're exploring the edges or waiting for decent light. There's no admission charge because there's nowhere to charge it. Clachtoll Beach Campsite sits just half a mile away, which makes this a logical add-on if you're based there - the contrast between the sandy beach and the still loch works well as part of a day's wandering.

Families with young kids might find it a bit underwhelming on its own. But if you're a walker, photographer, or just someone who likes empty landscapes, it's well worth knowing about. The Highlands are full of big, showy lochs. Sometimes the quiet ones are better.