Loch Ban a' Bhainne

You'll find this remote loch tucked into the wild landscape north of Sutherland, and it's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for. The water sits still most days, reflecting the surrounding hills with that peculiar clarity you only get in the far north. It's small enough that you won't spend hours here, but that's rather the point - this isn't a destination attraction, it's a proper detour worth taking if you're already exploring the Highlands.

The setting appeals most to walkers and anyone after authentic emptiness. There's no visitor centre, no facilities, no crowds - just you and the landscape. Allow 20 minutes to walk around it properly, longer if you're photographing or sitting about watching for golden eagles. The walk in is straightforward but can be boggy, so decent boots matter.

If you're staying at Clachtoll Beach Campsite, this makes a good morning sortie before heading to the coast. The campsite itself sits right on Clachtoll Beach with proper facilities, so you can base yourself there and explore the quieter lochs and glens inland. Loch Ban a' Bhainne works best as part of a wider ramble rather than a standalone stop - combine it with other hill walking in the area for a proper day out.

The wild, unmanicured feel is exactly what makes it worth the diversion. Don't expect drama or Instagram moments. Expect silence and space, which are increasingly hard to find.