5. Inchcailloch, Loch Lomond, Stirling

Loch Lomond stretches for 23 miles and contains 23 tiny islands, the vast majority scattered around its southern shores. And of all the 23, the most interesting is Inchcailloch, for it offers both a journey into the past and a beautiful sylvan refuge. Taking the ferry from Balmaha, you’ll discover a well-maintained nature trail comprising a central path with two loops off it. The upper loop climbs Inchcailloch’s hill, Tom na Nigheanan. From the summit, you can enjoy aweinspiring views over the islands of the loch and across to Bens Lomond and Vorlich (see above). The lower loop delves into the isle’s history. Next to the remains of St Kentigerna’s church and near an ancient ruined farmhouse, you’ll find the burial ground of the MacGregors. For centuries, Scotland’s most lawless clan (many of whom were murdered at Glencoe) ferried their departed here, and graves include that of Gregor MacGregor, Rob Roy’s uncle. The entire island is a designated nature reserve whose woods are dominated by oak trees inhabited by woodpeckers, tree creepers and wood warblers. Look out too for fallow deer, descendants of a herd brought to the area by Robert the Bruce. balmahaboatyard.co.uk/ ferrytoinchcailleoch.htm