Inspiring folklore and legends, the great lochs of the Scottish Highlands are shrouded in mystery and among some of the most breathtaking nature across the British Isles.
Loch is a Scottish Gaelic word for lake or fjord and can be used to describe vast bodies of water, namely lakes and sea inlets. Lochs that connect to the sea meanwhile are referred to as Sea Lochs, whilst small lakes are called Lochans.
Most people have heard of Loch Ness and its famous resident of course, but look a little deeper and there are many outstanding Lochs across the area which are paradises for walkers, kayakers and photographers alike.
Loch Ness
It’s impossible to talk about Lochs without mentioning Loch Ness. This is probably because of the legend of the evasive Loch Ness Monster: Nessie!
Loch Ness extends over 23 miles SouthWest of Inverness and takes its name from the River Ness which flows from the North side.
Loch Ness is the second largest lake in Scotland, but by volume of water, it’s the biggest and holds more water than all of the lakes in England and Wales combined.
There are several villages and walks around the loch but be sure to check out Urquhart Castle which is steeped in history and makes for an excellent viewpoint over Loch Ness.
Loch Lomond
Situated in the exceptionally beautiful Trossachs of Scotland, Loch Lomond lies on a geographical fault line which separates the lowlands from the Highlands. The Trossachs is Scotland’s first National Park. Established in 2002, it is a haven for nature lovers and hikers.
The loch is the largest by surface area in all of the UK, covering 71 km2 and 23 miles long.
What makes Loch Lomond special is its abundance of islands on the loch itself. With 23 to choose from, these small islands make for a great excuse to explore all year round.
Just 30 miles from Glasgow, Loch Lomond makes for a tremendous day trip from the central belt area.
Loch Shiel
Loch Shiel is a freshwater loch nestled in the West Highlands, 20 km from the adventure capital of Fort William.
The fourth longest loch in Scotland, Shiel is a haven for wildlife and is notably famed for its Golden Eagles, otters, and black-throated divers.
The loch is particularly popular for fishing and boats can be hired throughout the year for those in the pursuit of brown trout, sea trout and salmon.
Loch Awe
You absolutely will be in awe if you come to this loch.
Loch Awe is situated in stunning Argyll and it’s Scotland’s longest freshwater loch at 41km long. Loch Awe has islands, forestry, castle ruins and charming villages across its radius and it’s certainly worth it for those looking to get away from the more touristy areas of the Highlands, in search of solitude and true, wild nature.
At the head of the loch lies Kilchurn Castle. Built in the 15th century, Kilchurn is free to visit from April to September and makes for an excellent viewing platform across the loch and surrounding area.
Loch Maree
Head to Wester Ross and you’ll certainly want to visit Loch Maree and its scattered islands.
More than 40 wooded islands dot this loch and it’s one of the best areas across the country to spot birdlife due to the serenity and cleanliness of this loch.
Loch Maree is the largest in the North-West Highlands and is often regarded as one of the most beautiful.
The loch is a kayaking idyll and visitors may want to look into organised kayak trips to get a feel for this scenic delight.
What are some of your favourite Lochs and things to do when you’re there?
Let us know in the comments below!
