Loch Paiteag

A small loch tucked into the Highland landscape between Inverness and the more famous waters of Loch Ness. You won't find much infrastructure here - no visitor centres, no boat hire, no café - which is rather the point. This is a proper walk-in sort of place, best approached on foot from one of the nearby paths that circle the water.

The loch itself is quiet and reflective, surrounded by moorland and low hills that shift colour with the seasons. It's the kind of place where you might spot red squirrels or golden eagles if you're patient, though you're more likely to just enjoy the absence of crowds. The walk around takes a couple of hours depending on your route and fitness - nothing technical, but the ground can be boggy after rain.

This works best for walkers and landscape photographers rather than families with small children. There's no beach access and nowhere to stop for a paddle. If you're staying at one of the nearby Loch Ness parks - Loch Ness Holiday Park is only three miles away - it's a worthwhile half-day excursion when you fancy something quieter than the main loch. Worth checking locally for the best approach route when you arrive, as signage is minimal. The Highland scenery alone justifies the visit even if you don't fancy the full circuit. Go early to avoid what little traffic there is on the surrounding roads.