Loch Tromlee

Loch Tromlee sits in proper Highland terrain just outside Taynuilt, a small pocket of water that doesn't announce itself loudly but rewards those who find it. The loch itself is modest in size, ringed by trees and the kind of quiet you don't get near larger tourist draws. It's ideal for walkers who want something gentler than the Ben Cruachan walks nearby, though the terrain can be boggy depending on recent weather. The water's dark and still most days, which makes for decent reflection photography if you're into that sort of thing.

This isn't a destination in itself - it's more the kind of place you'd swing by whilst exploring the broader Loch Awe area. If you're staying at Loch Awe Holiday Park, which sits just 2.9 miles away and is well-regarded, Loch Tromlee could fill an hour or two of a morning walk. There's no infrastructure to speak of, so come prepared with proper footwear and don't expect facilities. Summer is the obvious choice, though autumn brings decent light on the surrounding hills.

Who gets the most from it? Walkers with a taste for the off-the-beaten path and bird watchers sometimes frequent it. Families with very small children might find it underwhelming - there's nothing to hold their attention for long. The views are understated rather than dramatic, but that's rather the point. It's a place to breathe rather than gawp.