Kilduskland Reservoir

The water at Kilduskland sits flat and grey under most Scottish skies, ringed by moorland that feels properly remote despite being just a few miles from Lochgilphead. This is a reservoir, not a natural loch, but it does the job well enough if you want somewhere quiet to walk or simply stand about looking at hills.

There's not much in the way of facilities or formal attractions here - this isn't a visitor centre situation. What you get is a decent circular walk around the water's edge, the kind of thing that takes a couple of hours depending on your pace and how often you stop to check your map. The moorland backdrop keeps things from feeling dull, and on a rare clear day the views open up properly. Serious walkers might combine it with nearby routes in the area; casual visitors might find an hour enough.

It's free to visit and you can turn up whenever. Families with young kids might get restless - there's no playgrounds or cafes - but teenagers who actually like being outdoors will be fine. The real appeal is the peace. No crowds, no gift shops, just water and heather.

If you're staying at Lochgilphead Caravan Park or The Pod Over By, both within a short drive, Kilduskland makes an easy half-day outing. Pair it with a walk around Lochgilphead itself or venture further into Argyll's forest parks for something with more teeth.