Loch Shiel
Lochaber
Looking down from the Glenfinnan Monument, you can experience the most famous view of the Scottish lochs. Not only are the views spectacular but it's a dream come true for Harry Potter fans when the Jacobite Express (AKA the Hogwarts Express) steam train crosses the Glenfinnan viaduct. Visitors to the loch can also climb the Glenfinnan Monument – where Charles Edward Stuart – Bonnie Prince Charlie – began the last Jacobite uprising. Loch Shiel is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles and otters.
Loch Lomond
West Dunbartonshire
The largest loch by surface area, Loch Lomond is a favourite with tourists, and understandably so. The loch is almost 23 miles long and houses over 30 islands including Inchmurrin, the largest island in a body of freshwater in the British Isles. In the surrounding woodlands, keep an eye out for golden eagles, red deer and mountain hares. The loch itself is home to a variety of fish including perches and flounders. Take in the Trossachs National Park and its hills, forests and villages before heading along to Firkins point. Away from the crowds, you can take in the whole expanse of the loch from above.
Loch Tummel
Pitlochry
The area known as Strathtummel is part of Perthshire’s so-called Big Tree Country, bursting with vibrant colours, a great choice of activities to do and places to relax. The Queen's View is one of the most famous viewpoints in Scotland, where you can take in the panoramic view of Loch Tummel. The visitor centre at Queen's View is a focal point for the Tay Forest Park with a tearoom and forest shop. Follow one of the many trails to experience the magnificent views of the loch and the surrounding countryside and take in the historical and wildlife interests along the way.
Loch Morar
North West Highlands
Reaching a depth of over 300 metres, Loch Morar is the deepest body of freshwater in Britain, and third in Europe, offering some excellent fishing along its 12-mile length. The area around the loch is perfect for those who love walks, and those who don’t, with stunning views reaching all the way to Ben Nevis in the east. Another loch which is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, red deer and sea eagles.
Loch Maree
Wester Ross
Loch Maree is among the top five largest freshwater lochs in Scotland, and the largest north of Loch Ness. The loch contains five large wooded islands and over 60 smaller islands, many of which have their own lochans within. The largest island in the loch contains a loch that has its own island – something that happens nowhere else in Britain. The loch is also incredibly important for wildlife as one of the largest breeding places of the black-throated diver. The Loch Maree islands are home to some of the best native Caledonian pinewood and are known for their dragonflies.
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