Lochan Cruachan

The walk up to Lochan Cruachan takes about forty minutes from the car park near Arrochar, and it's one of those routes that properly rewards the effort. You're climbing through proper Highland terrain - moorland and rough grass, nothing manicured - and the loch itself sits at around 700 metres, cradled by the Arrochar Alps. The water's dark and peaty, reflecting whatever weather's thrown at it that day. On a clear one, the views back down towards Loch Long are genuinely striking.

It's a walk rather than a casual stroll, so bring proper footwear and check the weather forecast first. The path gets boggy in places and can be slippery if wet. Allow two to three hours for the round trip, including time to sit by the water and catch your breath. This isn't somewhere to drag reluctant kids or anyone uncomfortable with a sustained climb - it's for people who actually want to walk.

What makes it work as part of a Loch Lomond holiday is the proximity to easier alternatives. You're only twenty minutes or so from Loch Lomond Holiday Park, and if the weather turns, you've got Forest Holidays Ardgartan nearby as a base. Inverbeg Holiday Park is also close enough for a day trip. The loch itself is quiet - you won't find crowds here - which is the whole point. Go early on a decent day and you might have it to yourself.