Best photo locations off the beaten track

Scotland

Mingary Castle, Ardnamurchan, Scotland

Built in the early 14th century and a ruin for many years, this castle is now a luxury hotel. However, don’t let this put you off. Its coastal location with a mountainous backdrop is stunning and for wildlife lovers, otters can often be seen on the shoreline below the castle. Mingary is just a few miles from the spectacularly located Ardnamurchan Lighthouse, an ideal spot for wildlife watchers and photographers alike. Jeremy Walker, www.jeremywalker.co.uk

Ruabhal, Benbecula, Outer Hebrides

Guidebooks are seriously dismissive of Benbecula. The 2002 edition of The Rough Guide to Scottish Highlands and Islands describes it as ‘pancake flat’ before suggesting that you drive across it and head straight for North Uist. However, if you take the trouble to walk up Ruabhal (the highest point on the island at 124m) you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Benbecula’s waterlogged interior.

Eilean Bàn (White Island)

This six-acre island (situated between the Isle of Skye and mainland Scotland) is a haven for wildlife with otters, seals, cormorants, shags and herons regularly sighted from its shoreline. Eilean Bàn is the former home of author Gavin Maxwell and, as such, there is a museum dedicated to him close to the water’s edge. The island supports one of the struts of Skye Bridge and has its own lighthouse, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife, landscape and architecture images.

Isle of Muck, Small Isles

Despite boasting white sandy beaches, secluded bays and visits from eagles, whales, porpoises and puffins, this low-lying island on the west coast of Scotland is often overlooked by visitors to the Small Isles. Beinn Airein is the highest point on the island (452ft above sea level) and is an easy climb for a wonderful 360° panoramic view of the surrounding islands.

Callert Mausoleum, Loch Leven

Turning right off the main Glencoe to Fort William road at North Ballachulish, the B863 winds and snakes along the shores of Loch Leven. After a mile and a half or so,