Loch nan Tunnag

The water at Loch nan Tunnag sits absolutely still on a windless day, which is precisely why you'd want to come here. It's a small freshwater loch near Drumnadrochit, tucked into the Highland landscape with enough quiet to actually hear yourself think - a rarity round these parts.

There's not much to 'do' in the activity sense, which is entirely the point. This is a spot for walkers wanting a gentler loop, or anyone knackered from the Loch Ness crowds and needing somewhere to sit with a flask. The shoreline is accessible enough, and if you're birdwatching-inclined, you might spot red-breasted mergansers or the odd osprey depending on season.

Really, Loch nan Tunnag works best as part of a bigger day out. You're only a few miles from Drumnadrochit itself, so it slots nicely between tackling the Great Glen Way or pottering round Fort Augustus. If you're staying at Loch Ness Glamping or Highland Premier Glamping Pods nearby, it's the kind of walk you'd do after breakfast without overthinking it.

Allow an hour or so for a proper explore, less if you're just after a viewing spot and a breather. Free to visit, naturally. It's not Instagram-famous, which means it stays peaceful. The water's cold - don't expect swimming, even in summer. Best visited when the midges aren't at their worst, so spring or autumn work well.