Loch Liath

There's something about a Scottish loch that stops you mid-stride, and Loch Liath does exactly that. This small freshwater lake sits in the Highland landscape near Beauly, where the water sits dark and still between hills - the kind of place where you hear yourself breathing. It's not a destination that gets mobbed with tour groups, which is precisely its appeal.

What you're really after here is a walk round the loch itself or perhaps a spot of fishing if you're bothered. The landscape is typical Highland - moorland margins, decent views without being dramatic. Walkers will find it rewarding rather than spectacular, maybe forty minutes to an hour to do a proper circuit depending on how you fancy tackling it. Don't expect facilities or car parks in the formal sense - this is genuinely low-key.

It works brilliantly as a morning or afternoon leg of a broader trip through the area. You're only minutes from Beauly town itself, so you can combine it with a proper explore of the village. If you're parked at Loch Ness Holiday Park or Inver Coille Camping & Glamping nearby - both solid options - Loch Liath makes a good quieter alternative to the busier Loch Ness itself. Families with older kids who'll actually walk will get on fine. Toddlers might find it less engaging.

Best visited outside school holidays when it's genuinely peaceful. Bring a waterproof - these Highland lochs don't promise dry weather.