Lochan na Curra

You'll find yourself standing at a proper alpine lake in the Highlands, surrounded by the kind of raw Scottish landscape that makes you forget your phone exists. Lochan na Curra sits tucked into the hills near Fort Augustus, quiet and unspoilt in a way that most of the busier Loch Ness attractions aren't.

It's a small freshwater loch, ideal for anyone who wants to escape the tour coach crowds. The walk in is straightforward enough - nothing that'll destroy your knees - and once you're there, the water reflects the surrounding peaks beautifully, especially on a clear day. Photographers do well here. Walkers too, since you can work a circuit around it if the mood takes you.

Families with reasonably capable kids will enjoy the adventure of finding it; very young children might find the walk tedious. History enthusiasts probably won't find much to grab onto here - it's about the landscape rather than the lore.

There's no entry fee, no opening hours, no visitor centre nonsense. You just turn up and go. Allow a couple of hours if you're walking the full loop, or thirty minutes if you're just after a quick look and a photo. Weather in the Highlands can turn on a sixpence, so check the forecast before you head out.

If you're based at Loch Ness Highland Resort just down the road, this makes a proper alternative to the main loch - quieter, more rewarding, less commercial. Worth the detour.