Treasures of the Earth

Walk into Treasures of the Earth and you're confronted by a serious collection of minerals, gemstones and fossils. This is Fort William's mineral museum, and it's the kind of place that either completely absorbs you or leaves you cold after twenty minutes - depends entirely on whether you're into rocks or not, frankly.

The displays cover everything from local Scottish specimens to international finds. Amethyst clusters the size of your head, polished agate, fossils that actually make you think about deep time. If you've got children who've caught the geology bug, you'll be here longer than expected. Younger kids might find it interesting for a bit, then start asking when they can leave.

It's the sort of museum that works brilliantly as a rainy-day detour when you're based at one of the nearby holiday parks - Linnhe Lochside or Glen Nevis Caravan & Camping are both close enough for a quick trip. If you're planning a week around Ben Nevis, Glen Coe and the local walks, slot this in on an afternoon when the weather's poor. Don't make it your main event.

Check their website for current opening hours and admission prices before you go - these things change seasonally in the Highlands. Fort William itself has plenty of other attractions if you need backup plans, so you won't be stuck if this doesn't grab you.