The Still Loch

The Still Loch sits just outside Lochgilphead in Argyll, a body of water that lives up to its name - the surface can be absolutely glassy on a calm day. It's the sort of place where you turn up expecting nothing much and end up staying longer than planned, watching the light shift across the water and the hills reflected perfectly below.

This is a walker's lake rather than a tourist attraction with facilities. There's a path round it that takes a good hour or so depending on your pace and how often you stop to look at the view. The surrounding moorland rises up steeply in places, which means you get proper elevation despite the modest height - the walk earns its views. Birdwatchers find it worth the trip too. Families with young children might manage a short walk from one side rather than the full circuit.

There's no entrance fee and no facilities to speak of, so you need to sort yourself out in Lochgilphead first. Go early in the day if you can - it's quieter and the light is better. Winter brings its own drama, but spring through autumn is when most people visit.

If you're staying at Lochgilphead Caravan Park, it's practically on your doorstep - less than three miles away. Even The Pod Over By, the posher option further out, makes this an easy morning or afternoon outing. Pair it with a mooch around Lochgilphead itself or other local walks in the area. The Loch rewards a slow approach rather than a quick tick-off.