Lochan a' Chait

Dark waters mirror the surrounding hills at this small highland loch, tucked away in the forests above Aberfeldy. The walk to Lochan a' Chait (pronounced 'lochan a hat') follows a well-maintained forestry track through dense Sitka spruce and Scots pine, taking about 45 minutes each way from the nearest parking spot.

Families with older children will enjoy the gentle climb, though it's not pushchair-friendly and younger kids might find the return journey a bit of a slog. The real reward comes at the water's edge where you can sit on fallen logs and watch for red deer coming down to drink in the early morning or late afternoon.

Bring a thermos and some sandwiches - the loch makes a proper little picnic spot, especially on those rare Scottish days when the midges aren't out in force. Wild swimmers might be tempted, but the water stays bracingly cold even in summer and there's no official access for swimming.

This works brilliantly as a morning excursion if you're staying at one of the holiday parks around Tummel Valley or Faskally Woods. Both are within easy driving distance, and you'll be back in time for lunch and whatever afternoon activities your park offers. It's free, always open, and gives you a taste of proper Highland scenery without the crowds you'd find at more famous lochs.