Loch Lubnaig

The water here is properly cold, even on a warm day. Loch Lubnaig stretches out like a long glass table between steep hillsides, and you'll either love it immediately or wonder why you've driven this far. The main pull is the walk along the eastern shore - it's manageable for most fitness levels, takes about an hour each way, and gives you proper Highland views without needing mountaineering boots.

It's the kind of place that rewards actually getting out of the car. Park near Lochearnhead and walk the shoreline path; the water's so still on calm days it reflects the hills like a mirror. Walkers and photographers will find plenty to occupy them here. Families with younger kids might get restless after an hour, but teenagers keen on a straightforward hike will take to it fine.

There's no visitor centre or facilities worth mentioning - bring a flask and make it work. The walk is free, obviously. Best visited outside peak summer weekends when the car parks aren't rammed.

Stay at Balquhidder Braes or Callander Woods if you're basing yourself here for a few days. Both are within striking distance and make decent launchpads for exploring the wider Trossachs. Loch Lubnaig itself is less dramatic than Loch Katrine but considerably less crowded. That's not a bug, it's a feature.