Loch Riabhachain

The water here is absolutely still on a good day - mirror-flat and reflecting the surrounding hills like you're looking at two skies at once. Loch Riabhachain sits in the Highlands near Beauly, a quiet stretch that doesn't get the crowds you'd find at some of the bigger Scottish lochs. It's a straightforward spot: moorland and water, with decent hill views framing the whole thing.

Walkers get the most from this one. There's a proper circular route around the loch that takes a couple of hours depending on your pace, and the terrain is manageable rather than brutal. The path winds close enough to the water in places that you can stop and just look, which is what most people come for. Bird watchers do well here too - golden eagles aren't uncommon, and you'll see red-throated divers if you're lucky.

It's free to visit, and there's parking near the start of the walk. Come early if you can, especially on weekends, because the car park fills up faster than you'd expect for somewhere so quiet. Summer's the obvious choice, but honestly, April through October all work fine.

If you're staying at Cannich Woodland Camping just down the road, this is barely a detour - twenty minutes from the site. It's the sort of place that breaks up a holiday nicely without eating half your day. Not dramatic enough to plan a trip around alone, but absolutely worth the walk if you're in the area.