Loch Eck

The water here is seriously dark - almost black in places - and hemmed in tight by steep hillsides that drop straight down into the loch. That's Loch Eck for you: a long, narrow stretch of freshwater that cuts into Argyll like someone's carved it with a knife. It's not the kind of loch you stumble upon by accident. You have to mean to come here, which is precisely why it feels so peaceful when you do.

Walkers and anglers get the most out of it. The shoreline path offers proper views without requiring scrambling gear, though the terrain can be boggy after rain. Fishermen come for brown trout and sea trout - it's a working fishing loch, not a scenic backdrop. If you're with families, a couple of hours here works well as a break between other activities around Oban, rather than a full day's focus. The water's cold and deep, so swimming isn't really on the cards.

The real appeal is how quiet it stays. You won't find crowds or facilities, which means no admission fees and no hassle, just the sound of water against stone. Head here in autumn when the light turns amber across the hills - it's worth the drive from Oban alone. Several holiday parks sit within a few miles - Loch View Luxury Pod is practically on the doorstep, while North Ledaig Caravan Park and Seaview offer more conventional base camps if you want to explore the wider area. Best visited on a clear day when you can actually see the ridges properly.