Loch Gorm

The water at Loch Gorm sits dark and still, hemmed in by Highland hills that rise steep from the shore. It's a proper quiet corner - the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think, which counts for something round here. The loch itself is small compared to its famous neighbour Loch Ness just across the way near Drumnadrochit, but that's precisely why it works. You'll find walkers and photographers here rather than coach parties.

What you do at Loch Gorm depends on your mood. Some folk come to fish - brown trout populate these waters and it's worth asking locally about permissions. Others simply walk the shoreline, which offers decent views without demanding much effort. The hills make for a proper backdrop, especially in afternoon light when the water catches the sky. There's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so come prepared.

This suits families who want a quiet half-hour away from the main tourist circuit, and walkers needing a gentler alternative to the bigger Loch Ness walks. Give yourself 45 minutes to an hour here, longer if you're photographing or fishing. Timing-wise, the midges can be fierce in summer evenings, so go earlier in the day if possible.

If you're based at Loch Ness Glamping or Highland Premier Glamping Pods nearby, Loch Gorm makes an easy detour. It won't eat a whole day, but it rounds out a Highland morning nicely - somewhere to pause and breathe before moving on to bigger attractions.