The rugged landscapes of Scotland are teeming with enchanting lochs nestled in the emerald countryside. Here, we will discover three of Scotland’s most beautiful lochs. They’re the perfect setting for a range of activities, from walking to fishing. But the lochs of Scotland are not just bodies of water; they are repositories of Scottish history, legends, and unparalleled natural beauty. Poets, artists, filmmakers, and musicians have long been inspired by the magical vistas of this country, and it’s easy to see why.

Loch Lomond

The Trossachs National Park is home to the largest lake by surface area in Great Britain, Loch Lomond. Second in volume only to the world-famous Loch Ness, it has 22 islands that offer havens for wildlife such as red squirrels, deer, otters and many birds. Surrounded by lush green forests and mountains such as Ben Lomond, one of the easier Munros to climb in the country.

Being a freshwater lake, it’s safe for open-water swimming and is a popular place for canoeing and boating, too. However, it is as deep as 190 metres in parts (deep enough to cover the London Eye) and there have been reports of a strange, monstrous creature living in the loch – so be sure to follow safety guidelines if you fancy braving it!

The beauty of Loch Lomond is immortalised in the traditional Scottish song, ‘The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond’, and there is plenty of history and culture to be discovered in the area. With miles upon miles of walks to be enjoyed, quaint restaurants and lakeside cabins complete with hot tubs to stay in, Loch Lomond is the perfect place to go for a quintessentially Scottish getaway.

Loch Awe

Aptly named, Loch Awe is nothing short of mesmerizing. Stretching for 25 miles through idyllic Argyll in the Scottish Highlands, this loch is a popular destination for fishermen and holiday-makers alike. The glistening waters are known for being still and serene, reflecting the surrounding mountains, ruined lakeside castles, and rocky shores as clearly as a mirror.

There are several charming villages dotted around Loch Awe, rich with Mediaeval architecture and picturesque trails for walking or cycling. A myriad of castles line the loch, built in the 15th and 16th centuries – many of which have been somewhat restored and are open to the public. Each has its own amazing story to tell and offers a glimpse into the rich history of the area. 

Camping is a very popular way to enjoy Loch Awe and there are plenty of campsites in the area. However you choose to enjoy the scenery, be sure to travel responsibly to maintain the pristine landscapes.

Be sure to also explore the ‘Hollow Mountain’, where you can venture a kilometer underground, where sub-tropical plants thrive due to the warm, humid conditions. More amazingly still, there is a water-powered power station inside the mountain, with four generators built in the 1960s.

Loch Maree

Tucked away in the rugged terrain of the Northwest Highlands, Loch Maree is a wilderness adorned with ancient pine forests and biodiverse islands. With a classically Caledonian backdrop of majestic mountains, the waters of the loch are an essential part of the ecosystem of this region. It’s home to one of the largest breeding concentrations of black-throated diver birds and is a haven for many rare plants and animals across its 60 islands. Keep an eye out for sea eagles, golden eagles, and a huge array of dragonflies and butterflies.

There is an abundance of stories, legends, and historical mysteries surrounding Loch Maree. As you explore this stunning area, be sure to visit Isle Maree, where you can find a curious holy well that was used to ‘cure insanity’ hundreds of years ago. There’s also a ‘wishing tree’ where it’s said that any wish made whilst fixing a metal object into the bark will come true. Another famous story of the isle is that of ‘The Tragic Lovers’, a Romeo and Juliet-esque tale of heartbreak – you can find two Celtic slabs laid to mark the graves of the star-crossed lovers on the isle.

An unforgettable journey

With such character and charm, the lochs of Scotland make for an unforgettable destination. Holding tales of myth and history, the landscapes are fascinating places to dive deep into Scottish storytelling. The Scottish countryside is an area that you’ll want to explore for adventure and well-being. Whether you camp in the stunning countryside or cozy up in a lakeside log cabin, Scotland is a place you will want to return to again and again.