Waterton Loch

The loch sits tucked into Aberdeenshire's rolling farmland, a decent-sized stretch of water that catches you by surprise after the quiet roads around Garlogie. It's the sort of place locals know well but tourists often miss, which is precisely why it's worth the detour.

You can walk the perimeter - takes a solid hour or so depending on pace - and the paths are well-trodden enough that you won't lose your footing. The water itself is dark and reflective, proper atmospheric on an overcast day, less dramatic when the sun's out but still pleasant. Birdwatchers tend to linger here; I spotted grebes and the usual waterfowl without any faffing about.

For families, it's manageable rather than spectacular. Kids will enjoy the walk and a bit of stone-throwing at the water's edge, but don't expect drama or a viewing platform with interpretation boards. It's bare-bones countryside, which some find meditative and others find a touch dull. Walkers heading through the Highlands will find it a reasonable leg-stretch without being a destination in itself.

Admission appears to be free - there's no gatehouse or obvious entrance fee - and you can turn up whenever. Hillhead Caravan Park is only four or five miles off, making Waterton Loch an easy morning or afternoon excursion if you're based there. Spring and early autumn are best; midwinter can be grim, and high summer brings midges.