RSPB Insh Marshes

The marshes stretch out flat and open near Newtonmore, giving you proper views across water and grassland where birds actually want to spend time. It's an RSPB reserve, so you're looking at serious birdwatching territory - the kind of place where twitchers turn up with expensive lenses and know exactly what they're after.

You'll find viewing platforms dotted around if you can't be bothered with lengthy walks, though the whole point is getting out there and moving quietly through the landscape. Winter's the best time if you want to see migrating geese and whooper swans. Summer brings breeding birds, which means more noise and activity but fewer of those golden peaceful moments. Expect to spend two to three hours if you're serious about it, or half an hour if you just want a quick peek.

It's free to visit, which is brilliant. The terrain's manageable - mostly flat paths rather than scrambling about on hillsides - so families with younger kids can manage it without too much fuss. Though honestly, if your children aren't into birds or spotting wildlife, they'll get restless fast.

Newtonmore's close by, and there's Invernahavon Caravan Park just down the road if you're basing yourself here for a proper Highland break. It's the kind of place that works best when you've built in proper time - not a tick-box attraction but a space where you can actually sit and watch nature happen. Worth the trip if you're into that sort of thing.