Rest And Be Thankful

The name alone tells you what to expect: a high pass where travellers have stopped for centuries to catch their breath and admire the view. Rest and Be Thankful sits at 860 metres on the A83, connecting Arrochar with Glen Coe, and on a clear day you'll understand why everyone stopped here. The viewpoint looks across the Arrochar Alps to Ben Vorlich and the surrounding peaks - proper wild terrain that suddenly opens up as you crest the pass.

It's a straightforward stop rather than a destination in itself. Park up, step out, and you've got sweeping Highland scenery without needing to commit to a long walk. Fifteen minutes is enough to soak it in, though bad weather can close the pass entirely in winter, so check conditions beforehand. The spot works brilliantly for anyone driving between Loch Lomond and the western Highlands - it breaks up the journey and reminds you why you came.

For walkers, this is starting point territory. The Ben Vorlich ridge walk begins nearby, and if you're staying at Forest Holidays Ardgartan or Drimsynie Holiday Village - both within striking distance - you can tackle proper mountain routes from here. Families with young kids might find the viewpoint underwhelming unless conditions are exceptional; the wind can be vicious and there's not much to do beyond looking. But if you're passing through Arrochar anyway, you'd be daft to skip it. Free, no opening hours to worry about, and the Highland drama is included.