Muir of Holm

The Muir of Holm is a sprawling forest just outside Blairgowrie in Aberdeenshire - the kind of place where you can disappear for a few hours and genuinely forget you're anywhere near civilisation. Pine trees dominate the landscape, tall and dense, creating that cathedral-like feeling you get in proper Scottish woodland.

Walking here is straightforward. There are paths winding through the trees, ranging from gentle strolls to proper treks depending on which route you take. The forest floor is soft underfoot - moss, fallen needles, the usual woodland debris - which means it's forgiving on the joints even if you're not the keenest hiker. In autumn the light filtering through the canopy is genuinely worth the trip alone.

This is squarely territory for anyone who wants a break from manicured parks and well-trodden tourist routes. Walkers will find it rewarding; families with energetic kids can let them loose without too much anxiety about getting lost. Birdwatchers and wildlife photographers do well here too. You won't see dramatic vistas or mountain views - it's woodland, full stop - so if you're after sweeping Highlands panoramas, look elsewhere.

Allow two to three hours for a decent explore, though you can dip in for a quick 45-minute walk if time's tight. It's free to access, no facilities that I'm aware of, so bring what you need. If you're staying at Nethercraig Holiday Park nearby, this is an excellent way to fill a morning without going far. The forest is peaceful in off-season; summer weekends can get busier.