Scotland’s rugged landscape is the setting for many a folk tale, film and legend. Arguably, most enchanting are the mirror-like waters that flow between the craggy mountains; the country boasts more than 30,000 lochs, drawing visitors from all over the world.
If you’re planning a trip to admire the waterways of the wee bonnie land, make a beeline for one of these five.
What’s the Difference Between a Loch and a Lake?
Although ‘loch’ and ‘lake’ both refer to a large body of water, their main differences are linguistic and geographical. A traditional lake is typically freshwater and landlocked, while the term ‘loch’ originates from Gaelic and is predominantly used in Scotland and Ireland to describe saltwater inlets which connect to the sea.
Secret Escapes’ Top Five Best Lochs in Scotland
Loch Ness: Home to the Famous Legend
Perhaps the most famous of Scotland’s lochs and lakes, Loch Ness is the second largest of the lot, holding more water than all of England and Wales’ lakes put together. It is home to the infamous Scottish mythology legend of the Loch Ness Monster – a giant, long-necked sea creature that is said to inhabit the water. Why not try to spot Nessie herself on one of the many boat tours across the water?
Further inland, seek out the stunning 165-foot Falls of Foyers waterfall on the eastern shore or the 13th-century ruins of Urquhart Castle on the western shore.
Loch Lomond: Scotland’s Biggest Loch
An hour’s bus ride from Glasgow, Loch Lomond sits among the Trossachs National Park in southern Scotland. With the largest surface area of all Scotland’s lochs, there’s plenty to do on its banks, from watching gorgeous sunrises to frolicking on its beach-like shores. Budding hikers can tackle Ben Lomond, a mountain that offers walks for a range of abilities, while leisurely walkers can head for the small town of Luss on the west shore and its fascinating heritage trails.
Loch Trool: Wild Swimming Spot in Scotland
Nestled in Galloway Forest Park, Loch Trool is a hot spot for wild camping and wild swimming in Scotland. Almost unaffected by the light pollution of the big cities, it’s recognised as the darkest place in the UK at night, perfect for stargazing.
Carefully venture out to the designated sites – such as Caldrons Woodlands or Bruce’s Stone – or carve out your own nook by the waters to see how many twinkling constellations you can spot.
Loch Shiel: Hogwarts’ Black Lake
The fourth-longest loch in Scotland, Loch Shiel, is located around 20 kilometres west of Fort William. One of the most historic and unspoiled in the country, visitors flock to the Glenfinnan Monument, while animal lovers revel in the birdlife surrounding the shores and on the water itself, including golden and white-tailed eagles and red-throated divers, plus herds of red deer. Eagle-eyed film buffs will recognise the loch as Hogwarts Lake from the Harry Potter franchise.
Loch Linnhe: Home to Castle Stalker
Last, but certainly not least, is Loch Linnhe in western Scotland. There’s plenty of history surrounding the waters, including a 13th-century restored castle and dungeon, plus 14th-century Castle Stalker, which sits on its own islet upon the loch itself. Loch Linnhe sits in the shadow of the landmark mountain of Ben Nevis, so drink in the vista of its glistening waters from an enviable position – you’ll have earned it after the hike up.
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