Magic of Scottish Lochs: 10 Must-See Lochs That Aren’t Loch Ness
From world-renowned to off the beaten track, there’s a huge number of lochs in Scotland waiting to be explored. After all, nothing quite sums up the natural beauty of the rugged Scottish landscape like the presence of a loch stretching on for miles ahead, with a mysterious allure that is both captivating and relaxing to behold.
If you’re interested in exploring the best lochs that Scotland has to offer, this guide will help you plan your next trip, including popular activities to try your hand at, the historical significance and background of the lochs, and how to get there by car.
Many of the lochs on this list can be explored by driving so if you’re considering a road trip to Scotland, planning a loch trail is one of the most interesting ways to discover the stunning beauty of the Scottish Highlands for yourself, from any of Crerar Hotels’ seven locations.
1. Loch Lomond
Balloch
The largest loch in Scotland by surface area, Loch Lomond is a popular destination for its stunning scenery, which includes being part of The Trossachs National Park allowing visitors to experience a vast variety of ecosystems, from mountains and forests to wetlands and the loch itself.
Loch Lomond's history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of settlements, Roman influences, and legendary figures like Rob Roy MacGregor. Not to mention, the famous folk song "The Bonnie Banks o' Loch Lomond" has firmly cemented the loch’s enduring place in Scottish culture.
Things to do: Taking the boat cruise in Balloch across Loch Lomond is a must. Explore Balloch village, visit Balloch Castle, or go kayaking on the loch. For families, Loch Lomond Shores has a SEA LIFE aquarium and a Treetop Adventure course.
Getting there: By car, Loch Lomond is around 30 minutes from Glasgow, or a 40-minute drive from Stirling. Take the M8 motorway west out of Glasgow and follow the signs for Balloch and Loch Lomond, or take the A811 north out of Stirling.
Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa Hotel is a great local base in which to explore Scotland’s West Coast including Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park and Argyll & Bute. Via the A83 is the fastest route to Loch Lomond.
2. Loch Fyne
Argyll and Bute
From the largest loch to the longest Loch in Scotland, Loch Fyne stretches an incredible 40 miles (65 kilometers) inland from the Sound of Bute.
A photographer’s paradise, Loch Fyne features stunning unspoiled beauty and diverse wildlife, and there’s a number of historical sites nearby to explore too including Inveraray Castle, the seat of Clan Campbell.
Things to do: Enjoy sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing on the loch's sheltered waters. Hiking and cycling trails offer stunning viewpoints and opportunities to explore the region's natural beauty.
Getting there: The nearest major base to Loch Fyne is Lochgilphea or Inveraray. From Lochgilphea, you’ll want to take the A83 or from Inveraray head south-east on A819 and go via the A83, A815 and B8000. The Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa Hotel is an ideal base in Inveraray to start your adventure.
3. Loch Bà (Loch Buy)
Isle of Mull
The Isle of Mull boasts extraordinary natural beauty with rugged mountains framing the loch’s irregularly-shaped calm and still waters. It’s also a great gateway to start exploring other islands including the uninhabited Carsaig Island and the historical island of Eilean Tora.
The area around Loch Bà has a rich history. Kilninian, a small village on the loch's shore, boasts a 15th-century church and an ancient burial ground. Evidence of Iron Age settlements has also been found near the loch.
Things to do: Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are popular choices for exploring the loch's calm waters. Boat tours are available for wildlife watching, island hopping, and sightseeing. Fishing enthusiasts can also try their luck for sea trout, mackerel, and other marine life.
Getting there: The Isle of Mull offers several charming villages and towns as a base for exploring the loch including Craignure and the colourful Tobermory. The Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa, situated in Craignure, offers a luxurious retreat from which to explore Loch Bà and the surrounding areas, with only a 25 minute drive to the nearby Loch
4. Loch Awe
Argyll and Bute
Stretching for an impressive 25 miles (40 kilometers), Loch Awe is known as one of Scotland’s longest freshwater lochs and can be reached within a 45 minute drive of Inveraray, making it a popular choice for a day trip or weekend getaway alike.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for red deer, otters, and a variety of birds, while fishing is also a popular pastime in the area. The Ferox Brown Trout is a particularly prized catch for anglers.
Things to do: Explore the surrounding hills on scenic hiking and cycling trails or take a boat tour on the loch. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck for trout, pike, and salmon.
Getting there: There are a few places you can stop by if you’re looking to explore Loch Awe including the picturesque Oban, Dalmally or Inveraray.
Dalmally is a small village that sits right on the loch shore if you’re looking to stay close by, while Oban and Inverarary have more options for shops and restaurants. It takes only a 30 minute drive to the Loch via the A849 and B8035 from Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa Hotel for those looking to complete a loch trail of the area.
5. Loch Scridain
Isle of Mull
It’s likely you may have never heard of Loch Scridain but it’s a real hidden gem for those looking to fully explore the Isle of Mull.
Rugged mountains rise from the loch's edge and it’s a popular location for boating and sailing if your idea of a perfect weekend away is discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches.
There are plenty of interesting spots to explore too, if you’re looking to combine activities including stopping by a local whisky distillery or a visit to Duart Castle.
Things to do: Loch Scridain is ideal for water-based activities including sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Glimpse into the island’s history with Duart Castle or take a ferry across to Iona.
Getting there: Tobermory is a great option for those looking to explore the charms of Loch Scridain or opt to stay in Craignure, which is the main ferry port on the island. Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa to Loch Scridain takes about 30 minutes to drive
6. Loch Katrine
Perthshire
Within the Trossachs National Park lies the stunning Loch Katrine, which not only showcases the captivating natural landscape of Scotland but features a fascinating and rich history.
Sir Walter Scott's epic poem "The Lady of the Lake" is set against the backdrop of the loch, making it a popular destination for fans of romantic literature. Evidence of ancient settlements has also been found around its shores, and some historical figures like Rob Roy MacGregor are associated with the region.
Things to do: Explore the surrounding hills and forests by trail or by cycling routes. Ben A'an, a nearby peak, is a popular choice for a challenging hike with rewarding views. You can also take a scenic cruise on the loch for truly panoramic views.
Getting there: Aberfoyle and Callander are two popular destinations for exploring Loch Katrine. You can discover the loch by foot, bike, or by joining boat tours departing from Aberfoyle or undertake the ultimate loch trail by using Inveraray and Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa Hotel as your base to reach multiple locations on Scotland’s west coast.
7. Loch Etive
Argyll and Bute
Nestled on the picturesque west coast of Scotland, Loch Etive boasts a dramatic landscape, with hidden waterfalls cascading down cliff sides - once you get the right viewpoint.
A boat tour is an ideal way to explore Loch Etive in order to get a glimpse of the majestic Connel Falls. Along the way, you may even be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of local wildlife including seals or porpoises.
Things to do: Loch Etive offers water sports such as kayaking and canoeing and there are a number of trails for hiking and walking offering breathtaking panoramas.
Getting there: Oban is the most convenient gateway to Loch Etive. The quickest and most flexible way to travel is by car via the A85. From the Oban Bay Hotel it takes around 40 minutes to reach your destination.
8. Loch Leven
Glencoe
Within the dramatic scenery of the Scottish Highlands lies Loch Leven, located right next to Glencoe Inn making it easy to enjoy views right from your hotel room.
Several trails around Glencoe lead to viewpoints overlooking Loch Leven and the surrounding mountains, offering stunning vistas.
Things to do: Loch Leven is an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the wider Glencoe area. Sit back, relax and take in the impressive scenery.
Getting there: Loch Leven is situated right next to the Glencoe Inn, offering stunning views for guests and highlighting the natural beauty surrounding the area.
9. Loch na Keal
Isle of Mull
The largest loch on Mull, Loch na Keal is known for its dramatic scenery and historical significance, with the ruins of Dun Ara Castle overlooking the loch.
Loch na Keal also teems with wildlife such as otters, and you might even spot majestic white-tailed and golden eagles if you’re lucky.
Things to do: Explore hidden coves and learn about the loch's history on a guided boat tour. There’s also a number of trails in the area for hiking, walking and cycling to take in the stunning Scottish scenery.
Getting there: Craignure is an ideal base for exploring Loch na Keal, with a drive from the Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa to Loch na Keal less than 30 minutes away.
10. Loch Tay
Perthshire
A large and scenic loch, Loch Tay is known for its dramatic scenery, water sports activities, and charming villages along its shores.
Surrounded by rolling hills and towering mountains, including the Ben Lawers range, the reflection of the surrounding beauty on the loch's surface creates a picture-perfect landscape.
Things to do: Sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding are popular activities. There are also numerous trails and picturesque villages dotted around Loch Tay offering stunning views of the loch and the surrounding mountains
Getting there: Pitlochry and Aberfeldy are perfect bases from which to discover the beauty of Loch Tay. It takes under an hour to arrive at the loch from Fonab Castle in Pitlochry
Crerar Hotels: Your Gateway to Scotland
Our Hotels and Inns in Scotland are conveniently located throughout the most scenic areas and are ideally situated for your adventures.
No matter which gorgeous hotel you choose to experience, there is something magical for you to do nearby before unwinding in a comforting, luxury hotel that will cater to your every need.
