13 Beautiful lochs in Scotland

Loch Alsh can be found on the west coast of Scotland and sits between the mainland and the Isle of Skye. To the west of the loch, you’ll find the Kyle of Lochalsh and the Skye Bridge that connects the island to the mainland. At the east side, Loch Alsh borders Loch Duich, and here you’ll find one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks – Eilean Donan Castle. A land that is home to a rich history, clans, castles, wildlife, and dramatic scenery, you’ve got a whole new world to explore on your doorstep. Venture along the trails and routes nearby, keep an eye out for stags and squirrels, or hop further afield to Scotland’s mesmerising islands.

Things to do nearby: Eilean Donan Castle, Lochalsh Woodland Garden, Castle Moil, Plockton

On the west coast, you'll find many spectacular fjord-like sea lochs cutting deep into the Scottish mainland, the longest of which is Loch Fyne. Running 40 miles from the Kyles of Bute to Achadunan, the loch is well-known for its bountiful larder. Head to Fyne Ales Farm Brewery, Loch Fyne Oysters, Loch Fyne Whiskies, or Inver Restaurant to sample some delectable fresh local produce.

You find plenty of lush greenery, woodlands and trails surrounding the loch, perfect for a day out on the bikes or a more relaxed stroll around the area. Although lochs are normally made up of rainwater, Loch Fyne is fed into by the sea, meaning you may be able to spot a range of sea mammal along the way, including dolphins, porpoises, minke whales and seals.

Things to do nearby: Inveraray Castle, Inveraray Jail, Auchindrain Township, Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Situated in the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park near Dunoon, Loch Eck is narrow and stretches for 7 miles from Benmore in the south to Glenshellish in the north. Travel along the A815, which runs on the western shores of the loch, where you can admire mesmerising views across the water as well as picturesque spots to stop off for a picnic or bite to eat. The loch is popular with walkers, cyclists, and kayakers, with the Loch Eck loop and Clach Bhein peak nearby.

Did you know that Scotland’s rarest freshwater fish, the powan, can be found in Loch Eck? This species is protected and can only be found in lochs Eck and Lomond.

Things to do nearby: Benmore Botanic Gardens, Glenbranter Forest

Located on the eastern side of the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, Loch Earn stretches for 6.5 miles from east to west and is the source of the River Earn, which eventually flows to join up with Scotland’s longest river, the River Tay. On the east side of the loch, you can find the town of St Fillans, and the town of Lochearnhead on the west side. Explore the area on foot with the St Fillans Viewpoint Circular route nearby, or venture along the Ogle Trail from Lochearnhead. Try your hand at watersports on the loch with Loch Earn Watersports Centre or Loch Earn Wakeschool, or if you’re looking for more of a challenge, nearby Ben Vorlich is a great Munro to tick off your list.

Things to do nearby: Ben Vorlich, CAG Adventures, Auchingarroch Wildlife Park

The Highland Perthshire setting for Loch Tay, Scotland's sixth largest, is simply stunning. There's a long history of settlement around the loch dating back to the Iron Age, when residents lived in man-made "crannogs". More than 20 crannog sites have been identified, and you can visit a reconstruction of one at the newly reopened Scottish Crannog Centre. It was constructed with the help of research conducted during an underwater excavation of one such prehistoric dwellings at Fearnan. Visit the villages of Kenmore and Killin situated at either end of the loch, explore the Falls of Acharn, climb Munros Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas for mesmerising views over the loch and surrounding Perthshire, or why not try your hand at fishing?

Things to do nearby: Loch Tay Safaris, Falls of Acharn, Charlotte Flower Chocolates

This well-known loch contains more freshwater than all the lakes of England and Wales put together, and forms part of the Caledonian Canal. At over 23 miles long and 226 metres deep, Loch Ness is a bit of a monster - the biggest loch in Scotland. Talking of monsters, has anyone seen Nessie? Learn about the loch and its infamous beastie at the Loch Ness Centre, where you can journey through 500 million years of history, and visit mighty Urquhart Castle to take a step back in time and learn more about the area. Head out on foot or by bike on the many trails and paths that surround the loch, with great viewpoints to stop off at along the away to soak in this iconic landscape.

Things to do nearby: South Loch Ness Trail, Great Glen Way, Great Glen Canoe Trail, Dores Beach, Loch Ness Alpacas, Suidhe Viewpoint

Follow the Road to the Isles (Rathad nan Eilean) either by road, or rail aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, to find the deepest loch in the whole of Scotland and the UK. At 310 metres deep and nearly 12 miles long, it's mesmerising, and if you're very quiet you might spot Morag - Scotland's other, and lesser known, loch-dwelling monster. If you leave the train at Morar, it's possible to walk a rewarding 9-mile route along the loch to Tarbet on Loch Nevis and take a ferry (book in advance) back to Mallaig.

Things to do nearby: Mallaig, The Crab and Creel, boat trip to the Small Isles, Traigh Golf Course

A loch that needs little introduction, Loch Lomond is the largest loch by surface area in Scotland and the UK's largest body of freshwater. It's easily accessible from Glasgow and is the jewel in the crown of Scotland's first national park. A climb to the top of Conic Hill along the West Highland Way or to the summit of Ben Lomond, reveals a remarkable vista of lochs, mountains, islands, and the Highland Boundary Fault. Take a loch cruise, choose from an array of watersports, enjoy a round of golf, or simply relax and absorb the views.

Things to do nearby: Balloch, SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium, Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Balloch Castle Country Park, Loch Lomond Wakeboard

Not far from its popular neighbour, Loch Morlich, Loch Insh is a haven for watersports enthusiasts, beginner or pro. Surrounded by dense Caledonian pine forests, try out kayaking, open canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, windsurfing, fishing, rowing and more on the water. Or if you’d rather keep your feet dry, there’s plenty to do on land too, from archery, bike hire, tubing and more. Stay a bit longer and enjoy a range of courses too or make use of the ticket and membership options if you want to come back for more fun!

Things to do nearby: Highland Wildlife Park, Loch an Eilein, Rothiemurchus Estate, Alvie & Dalraddy Estates, Alvie Stables

Almost resembling the lungs of Orkney's Mainland, these two beautiful lochs are only separated at their narrowest point by a slender causeway. The views to the horizon seem never-ending and the surrounding area contains the richest Neolithic archaeology in Europe. With plenty of remarkable historic sites, excavations, attractions and more nearby, it’s a wonderful place to visit and then explore on foot to really soak in the atmosphere of the islands. If you’re a keen fisherman, these lochs are a popular spot, as well as being home to a range of birdlife too, including wildfowl.

Things to do nearby: local walks, UNESCO Heart of Neolithic Orkney, Ring of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness

Duddingston Loch is situated in the shadow of one of Edinburgh’s most popular spots – Arthur’s Seat. The only natural freshwater loch in the capital city, Duddingston Loch is home to a range of birdlife, including wildfowl, and is surrounded by woodland, grassland, and shrubbery. The grassy banks of the loch are a popular relaxing spot for locals, especially in the sunnier weather, with splendid views over the city and beyond. Unwind and enjoy a peaceful afternoon lochside after a busy day exploring the sights, sounds, and attractions that Edinburgh has on offer.

Things to do nearby: Dr Neil’s Garden, Duddingston Golf Club, Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat, Royal Mile

In the south-west, Loch Ken is set within a wonderfully scenic and quiet part of southern Scotland and is a great base for an extended holiday. The loch is a haven for an amazing array of watersports - from sailing and stand up paddleboarding to windsurfing, water slides and a wobbly waterpark!

Things to do nearby: Galloway Activity Centre, Loch Ken Marina, Castle Douglas, Threave Garden & Nature Reserve, Red Kite Centre

Scotland is unquestionably a land of lochs. Well almost! The Lake of Menteith is in fact our only "natural" lake and is sometimes known as Loch Inchmahome. For all you pub-quizzers, other lakes include the Lake of the Hirsel, Pressmennan Lake, Lake Louise and Manxman's Lake, but these are man-made. You'll find Inchmahome Priory on the lake's largest island, where Mary Queen of Scots once sought refuge. The loch is sometimes used for curling tournaments as it is shallow and freezes over readily.

Things to do nearby: Go Ape Aberfoyle, Loch Ard, Loch Venachar, Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve, Queen Elizabeth Forest Park