Loch na Leirg

The drive down to Loch na Leirg from Colintraive takes you off the main tourist trail entirely, which is precisely the point. This modest freshwater loch sits in proper hill country, surrounded by steep wooded banks that crowd in on the water in a way that feels almost protective. It's not dramatic or showy - there's no visitor centre, no café, no facilities to speak of. But that's what makes it worthwhile.

Walkers will find good tracks around the loch shore, particularly on the eastern side where you can loop round through the trees without too much scrambling. The water itself is deep and cold, so swimming is an option if you've got the nerve and the equipment. Fishing is the main draw here - there's a reputation for decent brown trout, though you'll need to sort permits locally before you head out.

For families, it depends entirely on your lot. If they're content pottering about rocks and spotting birds, they'll have a morning's worth of peace and quiet. After that, you might find the lack of distractions works against you. Stick to an hour or so, then move on to somewhere with more going on.

Glendaruel Caravan Park is only six miles away, making this a sensible morning expedition from a week-long base. There's nothing to pay for at the loch itself - just turn up with proper footwear and realistic expectations. Go when the midges aren't biting, which means spring or autumn rather than high summer.