Balblair Forest

The forest track that winds into Balblair is one of those walks where you realise why people move to the Highlands. Starting from near Ardgay, it's a proper woodland trek through tall conifers and native broadleaves, with the river audible long before you see it.

This isn't a manicured visitor attraction - there are no gift shops or cafes. It's a real forest walk, the kind where you need decent boots and shouldn't go after heavy rain when the path gets boggy. Allow a solid two to three hours if you want to explore properly without rushing. The terrain suits walkers more than young families, though teenagers who don't mind muddy boots will manage fine.

What makes it worthwhile is the river scenery. You get proper views of the Shin in places, with rocky banks and genuine Highland atmosphere. On a clear day it's atmospheric; in mist it's moody rather than miserable. Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds. Autumn is cracking for colour.

If you're staying at Ardgay Glamping just down the road, this sits nicely as a morning or afternoon outing alongside bigger attractions further afield. It's not a three-hour drive sort of destination, but as part of a week exploring Strathfleet and the central Highlands it works well. Go early in the day if you can - locals use it regularly and it feels better when you've got the path mostly to yourself.