Loch na Machrach Mòire

The water here is proper dark and still, reflecting the hills around it in a way that makes you feel a bit removed from the world. Loch na Machrach Mòire sits in Argyll as one of those lochs you stumble upon rather than deliberately seek out - which is half the appeal. The walk in takes you through moorland that feels genuinely wild, and once you're there, it's the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think.

This works best for walkers and photographers. Families with younger kids might find it a bit underwhelming unless they're keen on a longer hike, but teenagers who enjoy proper landscape will get it. There's no visitor centre or facilities - bring what you need and expect to spend a good two hours minimum including the walk. The loch itself is small enough that you're not going to spend all day here, but it's absolutely worth the detour if you're based around Tarbert.

Tarbert Holiday Park and The Gather sit just down the road, making this a sensible morning or afternoon walk while you're staying in the area. Spring and early summer are best - the light's cleaner and the midges haven't properly arrived. Don't expect showers or cafés; this is landscape on its own terms. If you want something more managed and visitor-friendly, skip it. If you want to see a bit of Argyll that doesn't come with a gift shop, it's worth your time.