Loch nam Meur

A small Highland loch that rewards a bit of effort to reach, Loch nam Meur sits quietly in the landscape near Beauly, far enough off the main drag that you won't stumble upon it by accident. The water is dark and still on most days, fringed by rough moorland and the kind of views that make you remember why you came to the Highlands in the first place. There's no visitor centre, no café, no infrastructure whatsoever - which is precisely the point.

This is for people who actually like walking, not those looking for a photo opportunity after a five-minute stroll. The terrain is boggy and uneven, so proper boots are non-negotiable. Allow a good couple of hours to get there and back from Beauly, depending on your fitness level and how long you want to sit by the water. Go early in the day if you value peace - you might have the place entirely to yourself.

Historically, this corner of the Highlands saw Jacobite activity and old clan movements, though the loch itself is quiet now, almost forgotten. It's the sort of place that appeals to serious walkers, photographers after moody light, and anyone after genuine solitude rather than curated Highland experiences. Families with young children will find it a slog; older kids who can handle rough ground might enjoy it.

If you're based at Cannich Woodland Camping nearby, it's absolutely worth the detour. Same applies if you're staying at Loch Ness Glamping - treat it as a proper outing rather than a casual side visit.