Mol Bhàn

The walk down to Mol Bhàn is half the appeal, honestly. You're descending through rough Highland scrub with views opening up towards the Summer Isles, and then suddenly you're on a proper crescent of pale sand backed by low dunes. It's a quiet beach - the kind where you might see more seals than people even in July.

What you get is straightforward: a sandy strand about a quarter-mile long, shallow water that warms up enough for a swim by August, and the kind of light that makes every cloud dramatic. Bring waterproofs. The wind can pick up fierce out of nowhere, and the beach faces northwest so it catches Atlantic weather.

This works brilliantly for families who don't need an ice cream van and arcades - kids will burn hours collecting shells and wading. Walkers heading in from Ullapool will appreciate the coastal views on the approach. You're looking at roughly 45 minutes to get here from the main road and a good hour on the beach before the novelty wears thin, unless you're the type who can sit with a book all afternoon.

Park up near the start of the track - parking is limited but rarely packed. The beach is free, naturally. If you're basing yourself at Port a Bhaigh Campsite just up the road, this is an essential half-day outing rather than a day-long commitment. Low tide exposes more sand and rock pools. Time it right and you'll have the place nearly to yourself.