Loch of Muchrae

The water here is absolutely still on a calm day, reflecting the heather-clad hills around it like a mirror. Loch of Muchrae sits just inland from Banchory, a modest stretch of water that doesn't announce itself loudly but rewards a proper visit. You're looking at a freshwater loch ringed by moorland - the kind of place where you actually notice the light changing across the hills rather than dodging tour groups.

It's walkers' territory, really. The paths around the loch are straightforward enough, nothing demanding, maybe an hour's circuit if you're moving at a normal pace and stopping to look about. Bird watchers get genuinely excited about it - there's proper birdlife here, especially in the shoulder seasons. Photographers will find the light spectacular in late afternoon when it hits the water just right.

Families with young kids might find it a touch sparse - there's not much in the way of facilities or novelty attractions. But if your lot enjoys being outdoors without fuss, it's brilliant. Bring binoculars. Bring a packed lunch. You won't need to pay anything to access the loch itself.

The real draw is fitting it into a broader Aberdeenshire walk. You're close enough to Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages (less than five miles) or Royal Arch Riverside Park to base yourself properly and explore the whole area. Winter here can be grim and wet, but spring through autumn is properly pleasant. Go early morning if the light's your thing - the midges are less aggressive then too.