Loch Cul Duibh

The water here is dark as its name suggests - Loch Cul Duibh translates as "loch of the black corner" and standing at the shoreline you'll understand why. It's a proper Highland loch tucked away in the hills above Kyle of Lochalsh, the kind of place most passing tourists miss entirely because it doesn't announce itself with visitor centres or marked viewpoints.

What you get is raw Scottish landscape. The loch is small enough to feel intimate but surrounded by steep hillsides that climb up in that dramatic, rugged way the Highlands do best. There's no sandy beach or easy access - you're picking your way along the shore over rocks and heather, which is exactly the point. It's the sort of spot where you'll likely have the place to yourself, especially outside summer weekends.

Walkers will find this rewarding. The loch sits at around 300 metres elevation and the terrain around it offers decent hill-walking options if you're keen to push further inland. For a quieter afternoon with views that don't require fighting through crowds, allow two hours minimum. It's free, obviously - there's nothing to pay for.

If you're based at Reraig Caravan & Camping just down the road on Skye, this makes an excellent half-day excursion. It's close enough for an afternoon walk without the bother of a long drive, but far enough removed from the main tourist trail that you'll feel like you've actually discovered something. No facilities, mind you - bring what you need.