Merkinch Local Nature Reserve (West end)

The western end of Merkinch sprawls across the Beauly Firth like something locals don't bang on about enough - it's genuinely the best bit for a proper walk without fighting crowds. You get salt marsh, scrubland, and views across the water that shift depending on the light and tide. Birdwatchers absolutely live for this place. Waders, wildfowl, the lot - bring binoculars and allow a couple of hours if you want to actually see anything rather than just rush through.

It's free to access, which is brilliant, and the walk from Inverness takes about twenty minutes. The terrain is easy enough for families with kids who don't need everything to be manicured, though wellies are essential after rain. History types might appreciate that you're walking through habitat that's been here for centuries, largely unchanged.

Stay at Coulmore Bay Holiday Park or Bunchrew Caravan Park and you're minutes away - Coulmore especially gets high marks from visitors. It links up nicely with a broader Inverness exploration without feeling like a tourist trap. The real value here is the space and silence. Come early morning if you want to see wildlife. Late afternoon light is cracking too, but by then the place fills up a bit. Winter's quieter and proper atmospheric, though you need to dress for it.

Worth the detour? If you like birds and open water, absolutely. If you're expecting manicured trails and visitor facilities, lower your expectations.