Bella Vista

The drive up to Bella Vista from Ballachulish takes you through proper mountain scenery, and when you arrive at this viewpoint, you understand why folk make the effort. The vista across the Highlands spreads out in front of you - glen, lochs, and ridges stacking into the distance. On a clear day it's genuinely stunning; on a grey one, moody and atmospheric.

This is a straightforward stop rather than a destination that'll eat hours of your time. Park up, stretch your legs, take some photos, maybe sit on the bench if the weather's behaving. Twenty minutes to half an hour usually does it, though in summer you might linger longer just soaking it in. The viewpoint works particularly well for walkers passing through the area or anyone driving the A82 who wants to actually get out of the car and look at something proper.

If you're based at Invercoe Caravan & Motorhome Park - just a short drive away - it's an easy evening jaunt before dinner. Red Squirrel Campsite is even closer and equally handy for popping up here. Families won't find rides or facilities, but kids who like views and climbing about on hillside rocks will be content enough. The walk from the car park is minimal, which helps.

There's nothing here to check opening times for - it's a public viewpoint, free to access whenever you fancy. The main thing is getting decent weather. Catch it on a clear afternoon and you'll remember it; catch it in heavy cloud and you'll wonder what the fuss was about.