Luxury self-catering accommodation in Loch Rannoch

Just about in the centre of Scotland as a pin might stick, Loch Rannoch is in the heart of woody Perthshire so it's a great stopping-off-point for road trippers; having said that, one of the main roads through stops at Rannoch Moor and goes no further, so check maps before planning a route! The main town, Kinloch Rannoch, sits on the easternmost point of the loch and is where most shops are located: there's a tea room and a smokery selling local speciality meats, plus a little station for those arriving by train. Walkers come here to enjoy the peace and solace of the misty moorland and rugged terrain.

Pitlochry is a bigger town and slightly further off yet still an easy drive, with a good array of eateries and views to match. For those content to settle by the loch there are all the usual watersports and is a must-see for nature-lovers. Going down to a depth of 140 metres, cold currents make it a little chilly for dippers but angling is the sport: the loch is home to brown trout and a small run of salmon, pike and perch and there are plenty of sandy beaches on which to set up a picnic and throw out a line. Bikers love the 22 miles of scenic cycling on peaceful roads, pulling up now and then to take in the views and silence.