Blackstob Wood

You'll want proper boots for Blackstob Wood. The trails through this Aberdeenshire reserve wind through ancient woodland that feels genuinely remote, even though Forres is just down the road. The place has a real sense of scale - tall pines tower overhead and the undergrowth is thick enough that you lose sight of civilisation within minutes.

It's a solid walk rather than a stroll. Allow a good couple of hours if you're treating it properly, though you can dip in and out for shorter stretches depending on your legs and the weather. The woodland changes character depending on which path you take - some sections open onto moorland views, others stay properly enclosed and moody.

Historically it's interesting ground too. There's evidence of old settlements tucked into these woods, though you'll need to know what you're looking for. Photographers and serious walkers get the most from it. Families with very young children might find it a bit relentless and muddy for their taste, but older kids who don't mind getting their clothes dirty will love the adventure feel.

What works brilliantly is pairing this with The Loft Glamping & Camping, which sits less than a mile away. Base yourself there for a proper Highlands break - you've got the woodland on your doorstep but you're still close enough to reach the coast and Forres proper for supplies or a decent meal. Weather permitting, this is cracking terrain for autumn when the light cuts through the trees just right.