Loch Turret

Drive west from Crieff and you'll find yourself at one of Perthshire's quieter lochs, where the hills close in proper tight and the water reflects whatever weather's coming in from the west. Loch Turret sits at about 600 metres, surrounded by moorland and conifer plantations, so it feels remote even though you're not that far from civilisation. The main draw here is walking - there's a decent circuit around the loch if you're after a couple of hours on your feet, or you can push further into the Trossachs hills if you've got the energy. The water itself is cold and dark, the sort that makes you glad you brought a thermos. It's not a beach-and-ice-cream destination. This is proper hill country, and you'll see plenty of walkers and the occasional fisherman. The nearest caravan parks - Comrie Croft is closest at just over three miles away - make this a solid add-on if you're already in the area staying at one of them. Families with young children might find it a bit bleak and remote, but anyone who actually enjoys a Scottish loch walk rather than just photographing one will get on fine here. Go on a clear day if you can manage it; the views into the higher ground are worth the effort. There's limited facilities right at the loch itself, so bring what you need from Crieff.