Loch na Leirisdein

This remote loch sits in the heart of the Highlands, a fair walk from Beauly if you're coming from the nearest town, but absolutely worth the effort if you like your Scottish scenery proper and undeveloped. The water itself is dark and moody, surrounded by steep hills and conifers that press right down to the shore - it's the kind of place that feels genuinely wild rather than manicured for tourists.

You won't find facilities here, which is precisely the point. There's no café, no car park with interpretive boards, no gift shop. What you get instead is silence and the sort of light that changes every ten minutes as clouds race across the Highlands. Walkers absolutely love it, particularly those after a proper moorland trek rather than a gentle stroll. If you're camping nearby - Cannich Woodland Camping is just 5.6 miles away, or Loch Ness Holiday Park if you want something with slightly more amenities - this makes a cracking half-day outing.

Bring waterproofs. The weather can turn vicious up here without warning, and the exposed walking routes offer zero shelter. Kids tend to manage it fine if they're used to outdoor rambles, but if you're after something with action or entertainment, you'll be disappointed. It's contemplative rather than thrilling. Summer months are your best bet, though honestly, the place has more character when it's moody and overcast. Beauly itself is a fair distance away, so factor in travel time and make a proper day of it if you're making the journey.