Carsaig

Families and groups of six will find plenty of space and activities at Carsaig, a detached house standing on its own grounds beside Loch Venachar in Stirling. The three bedrooms and three bathrooms mean everyone has room to spread out. A private beach and jetty open directly onto the loch, where you can swim, paddleboard, or launch your own unpowered craft on calmer days. The hot tub overlooks the water, and there's a wood-burning stove for cooler evenings. Wi-Fi, bed linen, towels and electricity are all included. The property is non-smoking.

The setting puts you within walking distance of forest paths and woodland trails, including a Fairy Trail through the garden itself. More energetic days might involve climbing Ben Ledi, Ben Venue or Ben A'an, cycling the Dukes Pass, or exploring over 200 miles of gravel tracks across the area. Queen Elizabeth Forest Park, just nearby, has one of Britain's largest networks of off-road cycle routes. Callander, a Highland town with shops, cafés and restaurants, is five minutes' drive away and useful for supplies. Children will find activities like Go Ape treetop adventures at Aberfoyle and a waterpark at Loch Ard within reasonable distance. Several golf courses are nearby; Gleneagles is about 40 minutes' drive.