Lochan Mhic Earoich

The walk to Lochan Mhic Earoich takes you through proper Highland scenery, and that's half the appeal. This small loch sits tucked into the hills above Taynuilt, surrounded by native woodland and steep banks that give it an intimate feel despite being easy enough to reach. The water's dark and still on calm days, reflecting the ridgelines above - it's the sort of spot where you understand why people fall for this part of Argyll.

You'll want to allow a good hour for the walk from the roadside, maybe longer if you're stopping to take photos or just stand about enjoying the quiet. It's not demanding terrain, though the path can be boggy depending on the weather, so proper boots matter. The loch itself doesn't have facilities - no café, no toilets, no charge either. Just the water, the trees, and the occasional sound of wind through the heather.

This works brilliantly as part of a wider Loch Awe area holiday. Lochan Mhic Earoich is well-placed for walkers who want something genuine without the crowds that the main loch attracts. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might find it a bit long if they're not keen on the hike itself. Loch Awe Camping Pods sits just a couple of miles away, making it an obvious base if you're planning to explore the smaller lochs and glens around here. Go on a clear day if you can - the views back down towards Taynuilt are genuinely worth the effort.