Loch Morlich

It's one of the most popular wild swimming spots in the Cairngorms, with a sandy beach and clear water. Being fed by mountain streams, it stays cold even in summer, typically 14 to 16 degrees C, and the watersports centre provides safety supervision through the summer months.

The loch is about 6 miles east of Aviemore, roughly 10 minutes by car on the B970 through Rothiemurchus. A regular bus runs between Aviemore and the loch in season, so you can reach it without a car.

The loch is surrounded by some of the finest ancient Caledonian pinewood in Scotland, home to red squirrels, crossbills, crested tits and ospreys that fish the water from spring through autumn. Red deer come down to the lochside in the evenings, and the surrounding Rothiemurchus Estate is one of the best places in Scotland to spot rare woodland birds.

It's one of the best family destinations in the Cairngorms. The sandy beach, paddling, kayak and paddleboard hire, woodland walks and the Rothiemurchus Visitor Centre all work well for children. Add the reindeer herd at the nearby Cairngorm Reindeer Centre and the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular, and there's easily a full family day here.