Lochan Sgreagach

The walk to Lochan Sgreagach rewards you with one of those Scottish lochs that actually feels remote, even though Tarbert is only a few miles away. It's a small, dark water surrounded by moorland and low hills - nothing dramatic, but properly atmospheric on the right day. The lochan sits in open country with zero development in sight, which is refreshing given how built-up parts of Argyll have become.

Getting there involves a decent walk across rough terrain from the A83, so this isn't a casual pull-over stop. Allow two hours minimum if you're making a proper outing of it. The payoff is solitude and genuine wilderness feel - you'll see red deer, golden eagles if you're lucky, and a landscape that hasn't changed much in decades. Walkers and photographers will rate it highly. It's less suited to young kids or anyone after an easy stroll; the ground underfoot is boggy in places and there's no path to speak of.

The nearest proper base is Tarbert, where Tarbert Holiday Park offers straightforward camping and caravan pitches. If you want something with more amenities, The Gather just up the road has higher ratings and a touch more style. Port Ban Holiday Park, also close by, works equally well as a starting point. From any of these you can tackle Lochan Sgreagach as a half-day adventure, then explore Kintyre's coastal routes or visit Tarbert's working harbour in the afternoon. Free to visit. Best in late spring or early autumn when the midges aren't absolutely savage.