Loch an Dubhair

Drive fifteen minutes south of Inverness and you'll find yourself at Loch an Dubhair, a proper Highland loch that punches above its weight for a quiet afternoon out. The water sits dark and still most days, ringed by coniferous forest that comes right down to the shore in places. There's a small parking area at the north end where locals fish for brown trout, and a rough path that runs along the eastern bank if you fancy a walk.

This isn't a destination that will eat up your whole day. An hour or so of wandering, maybe a picnic by the water's edge, and you'll have seen what's on offer. The real appeal lies in the solitude and the straightforward Highland scenery - no crowds, no visitor centre nonsense, just a loch doing its thing. Walkers heading deeper into the glens beyond will pass through here; it's a decent warm-up before tackling anything more ambitious. Families with restless kids might find it underwhelming unless they're keen on spotting wildlife or fishing.

The loch works brilliantly as a half-day break if you're based at Loch Ness Holiday Park or Inver Coille Camping & Glamping nearby. Both sit within spitting distance, making it an easy detour. The water's cold year-round, so swimming isn't practical unless you're braver than most. Early morning visits reward you with better light and a chance of seeing deer on the slopes above. Free to visit and accessible any time, it's the sort of place that reminds you why people bother with Scottish holidays at all.