Lochan nan Iritean

A small loch tucked into the Sutherland landscape, Lochan nan Iritean rewards walkers who bother to find it. The water sits dark and still most days, reflecting the surrounding hills in a way that makes you understand why folk get obsessed with Scottish lochs. Getting here means leaving your car and walking - there's no road to the shore, which keeps the crowds away. You're looking at maybe forty minutes on foot from the nearest proper parking, depending on which approach you take.

It's the kind of place walkers actually want to visit, not tourists hunting for Instagram shots. The loch itself is modest in size, but the isolation makes it feel special. Bring binoculars if you're into birdwatching - the water supports decent populations of grebes and ducks. On a clear day the reflections are genuinely worth the trek. Rainy days? Less so. The walk can get boggy after wet weather, so proper boots matter.

If you're staying at Clachtoll Beach Campsite nearby, this is a solid half-day outing. Families with young kids will find the walk a bit much, and the loch itself is small enough that you won't spend hours there. But for those who like the Highlands without the crowds - and don't mind effort for their views - it's worth the detour. No facilities at the loch, so take what you need with you.