Loch an Ordain

The water here sits absolutely still most mornings, a perfect mirror reflecting the mountains that rise up all around it. Loch an Ordain isn't one of the famous lochs - you won't find coach parties queuing at the viewpoint - but that's precisely why it's worth the detour if you're in Sutherland.

It's a straightforward walk to reach, nothing that demands technical kit or a dawn start. The loch itself is small and feels intimate, the sort of place where you can actually hear the water lap rather than competing with other visitors. The surrounding hills create a proper cirque, which means the light changes dramatically throughout the day. Come in early morning and you get that rare Scottish gift - silence.

This appeals most to walkers who've done the big hitters and want something quieter, or to photographers chasing dramatic water reflections without the crowds. Families with younger kids might find the walk a bit long without much payoff at the end - it's the journey and the view that matter, not facilities or activities. There's nothing here but landscape.

The nearest campsite, Clachtoll Beach, sits just down the road and makes a solid base for exploring this part of Sutherland. It's worth building a few hours into an afternoon if you're already up here, though frankly the drive from most towns means you need to be committed. That commitment pays off in the form of genuine peace. Free, of course. Just bring weather-appropriate kit - this is the Highlands.