Forest bathing at Rothiemurchus (Loch an Eilein)

Rothiemurchus is a private Highland estate near Aviemore made up of native pinewood and moorland, with around 10,000 hectares of ancient forest. Loch an Eilein sits in the middle, encircled by mature Scots pine, with a ruined castle on a tiny island and Creag Dhubh rising behind. It is one of the classic places in Scotland to walk among old pines.

From the car park at the north end, where there is a small visitor centre selling light refreshments and public toilets close by, a level path of about three miles circles the loch through the trees. The parking charge goes towards the estate's conservation work. The path passes through a gap in a wall and a gate, and the trees often hide the water, so there are plenty of sheltered spots to stop. The castle view is at its best after snow.