Loch na Faoilinn

The water here sits perfectly still most days, reflecting the surrounding hills like a dark mirror. Loch na Faoilinn is a proper wee loch just outside Lochgilphead, tucked away enough that you won't find coach loads queuing up to get in. It's the sort of place locals know about rather than the tourist guides, which means you get genuine peace and quiet.

What you're really coming for is the walking. The loch is manageable on foot - you can do a circuit of it without it turning into an all-day expedition, though the terrain's uneven in spots so proper shoes matter. The views open up nicely if you go far enough round, and on a clear day you can see right across the water to the surrounding woodland. It's good for wildlife spotting too if you're into that sort of thing - otters work these waters, though you'd need patience and luck to catch one.

Families with younger kids might find it a bit limited as a standalone visit - half an hour of poking about and you're done. But if you're based at Lochgilphead Caravan Park or The Pod Over By nearby, it's absolutely worth a morning walk to get the legs moving. Combine it with the wider Argyll landscape and you've got something worthwhile. The loch itself is free to access - there's no visitor centre or facilities to speak of, so bring water and decent boots. Best visited when the weather's settled; wind tends to churn it up and lose the reflections that make it special.