Loch Derculich

The water at Loch Derculich sits perfectly still most days, reflecting the Perthshire hills like a mirror. It's a proper wee loch - nothing vast or showy, but that's rather the point. You come here for the quiet, for the chance to walk round the shore and actually hear yourself think without tour buses rumbling past.

It's the sort of place that rewards a slower pace. A couple of hours is plenty to do the circuit, though you could easily stretch it to half a day if you're in no rush. The walk itself is straightforward enough, nothing technical, so it suits families who don't fancy battling steep ground. Birdwatchers do well here - bring binoculars if that's your thing.

About three miles from Aberfeldy, it slots nicely into a Perthshire holiday where you're staying at one of the nearby parks - Aberfeldy Caravan Park is closest at 3.5 miles, or Grandtully Station Campsite if you prefer something smaller. You're well positioned for a full day out exploring the area without feeling trapped in a tourist trap.

There's no visitor centre, no cafe, no facilities to speak of. That's exactly why it works. Bring a flask, decent shoes for muddy bits, and expect the Scottish weather to do what it wants. Midges can be proper annoying in July and August, so time your visit for spring or autumn if you can. It won't make your holiday - but it's a peaceful morning well spent.