Loch nan Liagh

The water here is properly dark, almost black in certain light, and the mountains rise up around it like they've got something to prove. Loch nan Liagh sits in the Scottish Highlands near Gairloch, tucked away enough that you won't find crowds queuing for photos.

It's a walkers' loch rather than a postcard spot. There's no visitor centre, no tea room, no infrastructure to speak of - which is exactly why some people love it. The access is straightforward enough from Gairloch town, though the final approach requires a bit of legwork and the track can be boggy depending on weather. Allow a solid hour or so to get down there and back, longer if you're in no rush.

The appeal lies in the raw Highland landscape rather than any particular landmark. If you're after dramatic scenery and genuine solitude, you'll find it here. Family groups with young kids might find the walk a touch tedious for what amounts to a remote loch view - there's not much to do once you're there except admire the hills and possibly do some fishing if you're equipped for it.

If you're based at Sands Caravan & Camping nearby, this works as a proper adventure day out rather than a quick afternoon jaunt. Pair it with exploring Gairloch itself - the beach is decent, and the coastal paths have their own appeal. The Highlands reward effort, and Loch nan Liagh certainly demands it.