Gairloch sands campsite

The beach at Gairloch stretches for miles in both directions, golden sand backed by low dunes and the kind of light that makes you understand why painters come here. It's a proper working beach - fishing boats, proper boat activity, not a theme park in sight. The campsite itself sits right on the edge, so you can wake up to the sound of the sea and be on the sand within minutes.

This is brilliant for families who want space to run about and for anyone who enjoys a bit of coastal walking. The strand is wide enough that even on moderately busy days you'll find your own patch. The water's cold - we're talking Highland cold - but paddling's fine and the views across to Skye on clear days make it worth the visit alone.

It's low-key, which is either its greatest strength or a drawback depending on what you're after. No amusement arcades, no candy floss, just sand and sea and the occasional seal. Walkers will find good routes heading north along the shore towards Redpoint. Allow a full day if you want to properly explore the beach and surroundings.

Gairloch itself is a small working village five minutes' drive away, with a decent chippy, a couple of pubs, and enough shops to grab what you've forgotten. The Sands Caravan & Camping site is virtually on the doorstep if you're looking for more facilities. Worth stopping for at least a day or two during a Highland loop, especially if the weather's cooperating.