This post was most recently updated on July 9th, 2019
Scotland is home to many lochs – around 31,000 in total! This means there is no shortage of options when it comes to visiting lochs, as these beautiful bodies of water are found in abundance throughout the country.
With so many to choose from, deciding on a loch to visit in Scotland is quite the challenge! If you are considering visiting a loch in Scotland, be sure to check out any of the following:
Loch Ness
It’s an obvious choice but Loch Ness is still worth a visit. The legendary Loch Ness Monster certainly adds to the mystique of the loch, and while catching a glimpse of Nessie may be unlikely, it is still worth a visit!
There are various tourist attractions at Loch Ness where you can learn more about the legend of the Loch Ness Monster, while the surrounding landscape is also worth exploring.
Loch Lomond
Arguably the second most famous loch in Scotland, Loch Lomond offers a serene experience for any visitors. Located near the charming town of Balloch, Loch Lomond offers a range of activities on the loch, including fishing, sailing, and canoeing, making it ideal for anyone that loves outdoor action.
There are various shops, pubs, and cafes located near the loch or you can also go out and explore the lush woodland trails beyond the loch.
Loch Tay
A hidden gem, Loch Tay is a great place to visit for few days, being renowned for its shoreside accommodations. Home to some of the best dog-friendly cottages in Perthshire, Loch Tay is certainly worth visiting for anyone looking to bring their pet dog on holiday with them.
There are also glamping, loges, and cabins throughout the area should you prefer it, most of which are dog-friendly and ideal for families. Loch Tay has plenty of activities to suit every visitor, including boat trips, fishing, archery, sailing, and disc golf, while dog-owners can take their four-legged friends on long walks along the shoreline and nearby country hills.
Loch Awe
Anglers looking to cast a line in one of Scotland’s lochs have plenty of great options, but Loch Awe is certainly one of the best. Renowned for its brown trout, anyone looking to reel in a monstrous catch should consider visiting Loch Awe.
Beyond fishing, Loch Awe has several beaches worth exploring, while the nearby wooded slopes and mountains provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. Kilchurn Castle is located on Loch Awe, with the iconic ruins being one of the most famous images of Scotland’s lochs.
Angela Penfold
The Best Lochs to Visit in Scotland’ is guest-written by Angela Penfold of Highland Perthshire Holiday Homes. Thank you, Angela, for sharing your tips on Scotland’s lochs!
Scotland is a stunning country with incredible beauty and ruggedness. If you’d like to learn about the Isle of Skye (and see gorgeous drone footage), please see my post: Scotland: Simply Stunning (You Have to See It!)
And finally, if you really enjoyed this post, I’d love it if you’d pin it so others can benefit, too!
I was amazed at how many lochs we drove past during our time in the Highlands! Each one was absolutely stunning, surrounded by green meadows and resting under an expensive blue sky!