St. John’s Pool Nature Reserve

The walk down to St. John's Pool from Thurso takes you through moorland that shifts colour with the seasons - purple heather in late summer, burnt orange in autumn. The pool itself sits in a granite gorge where the River Thurso narrows dramatically, and the water runs cold and clear enough that you can see the rocky bottom.

This is a proper swimmer's spot if you're brave enough. Locals use it year-round, though most visitors come between June and September when the water's least likely to induce immediate hypothermia. There's a natural diving platform - a low rock ledge - though jumping in requires commitment and decent weather. In winter, the gorge fills with mist off the water and feels genuinely wild.

For walkers, it's the destination rather than a lengthy hike. Allow an hour from Thurso town centre to get down and back, with another hour to swim and sit around if you're inclined. The approach path is uneven in places - proper boots help - but nothing technical.

If you're camping at Little Croft Highlands nearby, it's worth the short drive and walk for a morning dip before breakfast. Families with older kids will manage fine; younger ones might find the scramble down tedious. Photography types should come when the light hits the gorge - early morning or late afternoon work best.

Free to visit, no facilities at the pool itself, so bring what you need. Bring a towel you don't mind getting soaked.