Killin

The Falls of Dochart thunder through the heart of this Highland village, creating a dramatic centrepiece that draws photographers and hill walkers alike. Killin sits at the head of Loch Tay, where the River Dochart cascades over ancient rocks in a series of spectacular waterfalls that you can view from the old stone bridge.

This is serious walking country. Peaks like Meall Garbh and Creag na Caillich rise steeply from the loch shore, offering challenging climbs with proper Highland views stretching across Perthshire's mountains. The quieter lochs - Lochan Breaclaich and Lochan a'Chaorainn - reward those willing to venture beyond the main tourist spots with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding hills.

History buffs will find traces of Scotland's past at the Crannog, an ancient loch dwelling, and Lawers Mill. The village itself is compact but well-equipped, with a decent tearoom and outdoor gear shops catering to the steady stream of Munro baggers and casual ramblers.

Getting here is straightforward enough - the A85 connects Killin to Stirling in about an hour, though the final approach through Glen Dochart is wonderfully scenic if you're not in a rush. Aberfeldy lies 20 miles northeast for bigger shops and services.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks makes perfect sense for exploring this corner of the Highlands. Loch Tay Highland Lodges offers glamping right on the water's edge, while several touring parks around Comrie and Balquhidder provide good bases for tackling multiple peaks. The combination of loch-side tranquillity and mountain adventure is hard to beat.