RSPB Nigg Bay

The flat expanse of Nigg Bay stretches out in front of you, and if you're lucky with timing, you'll spot wading birds picking through the mudflats like it's a massive, free all-you-can-eat buffet. This RSPB reserve sits just outside Inverness, making it proper convenient if you're based anywhere in the area. In winter you get pink-footed geese by the thousand. Summer brings different species altogether - terns, redshanks, the lot.

It's not flashy. There are no visitor centres here, no cafes, no gift shops trying to flog you plush puffins. You pull up, you walk to the viewpoint, you look. That's the appeal for serious birdwatchers - no crowds, no nonsense. Families with binoculars and patience will get more from it than young kids expecting entertainment. Allow 45 minutes to an hour depending on how much you want to stand around scanning the water.

The RSPB doesn't charge entry - it's free - but bring decent binoculars and a field guide because the light can be tricky, especially in winter when the sun barely gets going. If you're staying at Delny Glamping nearby, it's worth an afternoon visit before heading back to camp. Time your visit for slack tide when birds are most active feeding. Spring and autumn migrations are genuinely worth planning around if you're keen on birds.