Lochan an Fheoir

Getting to Lochan an Fheoir means leaving the main road and heading into proper hill country, which is exactly why it works so well. This small, dark loch sits in the mountains south of Strathcarron - the kind of place you stumble across when walking rather than drive to deliberately. The water is deep and still, ringed by steep heather-covered slopes that catch the light differently depending on the time of day. On clear days, the reflections are excellent if you've got a camera. On grey ones, which is most of the time, it has that moody Highland quality that makes you understand why people move here.

Walkers get the most from this spot. There's no developed path or facilities - it's raw landscape - so come prepared. The approach from Strathcarron takes a good couple of hours through rough terrain, and your boots need to be sound. Families with young children will find it frustrating rather than rewarding. History buffs won't find much here, but those after solitude and genuine mountains will feel they've earned it.

Access is free, obviously. Allow half a day if you're coming from Strathcarron. The light is best in early morning or late afternoon. Winter makes it bleak and potentially dangerous.

If you're staying at Shieldaig Camping & Cabins nearby, this works well as a harder day out compared to more accessible loch walks in the region. It's not for everyone, but that's precisely the point.