Polney Loch

A shallow freshwater loch surrounded by Perthshire woodland, Polney sits just outside Dunkeld and rewards a quiet detour if you're after something low-key rather than dramatic. The water itself is modest - no Highland drama here - but it's the sort of place that appeals to birdwatchers and anyone who enjoys a gentle woodland walk without crowds. The surrounding trees are thick enough to make it feel secluded even when you're only minutes from the main road.

It's best suited to families with young children or walkers seeking a peaceful hour rather than a proper expedition. The banks are accessible in places, though there's nothing fancy in terms of facilities or interpretation boards. Bring binoculars if ornithology interests you; the loch attracts dabbling ducks and occasional herons. Allow 45 minutes to an hour for a proper wander, longer if you're photographing or sketching.

If you're based at Inver Mill Farm Caravan Park or Erigmore Holiday Park - both excellent bases for this area - Polney works as a lazy morning before heading into Dunkeld itself or pushing further into the Tay Valley. It's free to visit and accessible year-round, though spring and early autumn tend to be nicest. The path can be boggy after rain, so proper footwear matters. Don't expect lochs of Loch Lomond or Loch Tay calibre - this is intimate woodland scenery, and that's precisely the point.