Amazing Scottish Lochs

Milarrochy Bay, Loch Lomond

A Guide to the Best Scottish Lochs in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty, home to over 20 incredible lochs, each with unique charm. There’s no need to venture beyond the park’s boundaries to experience the best Scotland’s lochs have to offer.

From tranquil spots ideal for paddling to historic sites brimming with tales of the past, the lochs in this national park provide a perfect blend of natural splendour, recreational opportunities, and historical intrigue. Below, I’ve listed some of my favourite lochs, showcasing what makes each one special and what I enjoy to do when there.

Steamship on Loch Katrine, Trossachs

Loch Katrine

Even though I live just a few miles from Loch Lomond, it’s Loch Katrine where I’ve spent the most time in recent years, partly for my work with the attraction on marketing. For over two centuries, visitors have been captivated by the tranquil beauty and storied past of Loch Katrine. Widely regarded as the ‘Birthplace of Scottish Tourism,’ its fame began with Sir Walter Scott’s 1810 poem, which, along with the works of other Victorian writers and artists, vividly depicted the loch’s dramatic landscapes. This sparked a tourism boom, with horse-drawn carriages lining up to reach Trossachs Pier, where eager travellers first embarked on rowing boat excursions before steamships began operating in the mid-1800s.

The steamship story (over 180 years of history) endures today with the historic Steamship Sir Walter Scott, still sailing, which it has done since 1900. Cruising on this steamship is one of the best ways to explore the loch, with ever-changing views of lush forests, dramatic mountains, and shimmering waters. No two days on Loch Katrine are the same, thanks to the shifting light and weather patterns. If you’re visiting, don’t miss the newly built scenic tower above Trossachs Pier, which offers stunning panoramic views of this iconic loch and the surrounding mountains.

Loch Ard in the Trossachs

Loch Ard, Loch Chon, and Loch Eck: Good for a Paddle

If you (like me) are a fan of paddling, then Loch Ard, Loch Chon, and Loch Eck should be on your list. These lochs, nestled among Scotland’s dramatic hills and forests, offer some of the most peaceful and picturesque paddling experiences. The perspective you get in the water and the tranquillity are so unique. Let’s find out more about them.

Loch Ard

Thanks to its generally calm waters, Loch Ard is a fantastic spot for beginners and experienced paddlers. Surrounded by rolling hills and forests, it provides an idyllic setting for a day on the water. One of my most memorable experiences at Loch Ard was photographing a wedding at Altskeith House, a stunning venue on the loch’s shores. As the sun set behind Ben Lomond, the reflections on the loch created a magical scene, making it a dream location for wedding photography.

Loch Ard, with sunset over Ben Lomond

Loch Chon

If you want a more secluded paddling experience, head to Loch Chon. Smaller and more remote than neighbouring Loch Ard, it offers a peaceful retreat into nature. The loch is surrounded by dense forest, and on a calm day, the still waters perfectly mirror the surrounding landscape. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone seeking solitude and tranquillity.

Loch Eck

Venturing further west into Argyll Forest Park, you’ll find Loch Eck. This long, narrow loch is known for its fjord-like appearance, with steep hills rising dramatically from the water’s edge. It’s a popular spot for paddling and hiking, with several trails offering panoramic views of the loch. Whether exploring the water by kayak or canoe or leisurely walking along the shore, Loch Eck never fails to impress.

Loch Eck

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Loch Goil

Loch Goil: A Hidden Gem with Fjord-Like Scenery

Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the national park, Loch Goil is a true hidden gem. The drive to the loch, along a winding road that snakes through the hills, adds to the sense of adventure. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking fjord-like scenery, with steep, forested hillsides plunging into the deep waters below.

A good way to explore Loch Goil is to hire a motorboat from Loch Goil Cruisers. It’s a fantastic way to observe nature, with opportunities to see seals, seabirds, and even porpoises. At the far end of the loch stands the historic Carrick Castle, a striking ruin that adds a touch of mystery to the landscape.

The Lake of Menteith

The Lake of Menteith: Scotland’s Only Lake

Unlike every other loch in Scotland, The Lake of Menteith is referred to as a lake, making it unique in name and character. It’s a favourite spot for anglers, with Menteith Fisheries offering some of the best trout fishing in the region. The lake’s calm waters and beautiful surroundings make it a peaceful destination for fishing and relaxation.

History buffs will enjoy a visit to Inchmahome Priory, a 13th-century monastery on an island in the lake. During her childhood, Mary, Queen of Scots, lived there. Famously, the lake froze solid in the 1970s, providing a rare opportunity for large-scale curling matches to be held on its surface.

Loch Lubnaig

Loch Lubnaig, Loch Voil, and Loch Doine: Scenic Cycling and Historical Connections

Loch Lubnaig is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to the bustling town of Callander. My favourite way to get there is along the section of NCN 7 cycle path that runs along its shores. This excellent cycling route connects Callander to Strathyre, offering cyclists stunning views of the loch and surrounding hills.

Further into Rob Roy Country, Loch Voil and Loch Doine are steeped in history. The area is closely associated with the famous outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor, who spent his later years here. The lochs are less developed than others in the park, providing a more rugged and remote experience.

Loch Tay

Loch Tay and Loch Earn: Adventure Awaits

Loch Tay stretches for 15 miles and starts near the village of Killin. It is surrounded by the impressive Ben Lawers mountain range, making it a favourite destination for hikers and mountaineers. The loch offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing.

Meanwhile, Loch Earn is another excellent spot for water sports. The pretty village of St Fillans, located at the eastern end of the loch, offers a peaceful base for exploring the surrounding area.

Loch Achray and Loch Venachar: Picture-Perfect Trossachs Lochs

Back in the heart of the Trossachs, Loch Achray is one of the prettiest lochs in the region. From the summit of Ben A’an, you can enjoy panoramic views of both Loch Achray and Loch Katrine. Loch Venachar is another beautiful spot, perfect for picnicking, walking, and simply soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Ben A’an and Loch Achray

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Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond: The Iconic Heart of the National Park

Finally, we come to the loch that gives the park its name—Loch Lomond. Renowned worldwide for its beauty and immortalised in the famous song The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond, this loch offers an extraordinary range of experiences. Stretching over 22 miles and dotted with more than 30 islands, Loch Lomond is the largest inland stretch of water in Britain by surface area.

I feel so lucky to live in the National Park, and while I love all the lochs featured here (especially Loch Katrine), it’s Loch Lomond that has my heart; it’s got so many special places, and I have had some wonderful moments by it and on it.

Balmaha, Loch Lomond

Villages of Loch Lomond: Balmaha and Luss

Loch Lomond’s charm is enhanced by its picturesque lochside villages. One of the most popular is Balmaha, a delightful village on the eastern shore. It serves as a gateway to the loch and offers plenty of opportunities for walking, picnicking, and boat trips. From here, visitors can take a short hike up Conic Hill for sweeping views of the loch and its islands.

Further north along the western shore is Luss, a beautifully preserved conservation village known for its quaint cottages, flower-filled gardens, and sandy beach. It is a fantastic starting point for boat tours and water activities, making it one of the busiest spots on Loch Lomond, particularly in summer. Luss is also steeped in history, with the 19th-century Luss Parish Church and its ancient graveyard drawing visitors interested in the area’s past.

Deciding whether to visit Balmaha - or Luss - see them both, join one of the frequent cruises and enjoy them both in a day.

Luss, Loch Lomond

Historic Paddle Steamer: The Maid of the Loch

No visit to Loch Lomond is complete without learning about The Maid of the Loch, the last paddle steamer built in Britain. Launched in 1953, this historic vessel provided pleasure cruises on the loch for many years before going out of service and suffering from years of neglect. Currently undergoing restoration at Balloch Pier, the Maid of the Loch symbolises Loch Lomond’s rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the paddle steamer and learn about its history, with plans to get it sailing once again.

Exploring the Islands of Loch Lomond

One of the unique features of Loch Lomond is its collection of islands. The southern section of the loch, in particular, is home to a cluster of islands perfect for exploration. Among them is Inchcailloch, a beautiful island nature reserve accessible by boat from Balmaha. A walk around Inchcailloch offers stunning views of the loch and provides insight into its history, with ruins of an ancient church and burial ground dating back to the 13th century.

In addition to Inchcailloch, several other islands are worth visiting, each with its own character and stories. Some islands are privately owned, while others are uninhabited, offering quiet retreats for wildlife. Exploring these islands by kayak or taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to appreciate the loch’s beauty and tranquillity.

Inchcailloch Island, Loch Lomond

Birdwatching at RSPB Reserves

Loch Lomond is also a haven for birdwatchers, with two RSPB reserves offering fantastic opportunities to spot various species. The RSPB Loch Lomond reserve at Gartocharn is a wonderful place for a leisurely walk along nature trails, now with access to the shore by boardwalks. It’s home to many wildlife, including ospreys, redstarts, and even otters.

On the northern shore, the RSPB reserve at Inversnaid offers a more rugged experience, with trails winding through ancient woodlands. The reserve is known for its population of rare birds, such as black grouse and peregrine falcons, as well as its stunning waterfalls and views over the loch.

Iconic Views: Ben Lomond and Duncryne Hill

Climbing Ben Lomond is a must for those seeking breathtaking views. As Scotland’s most southerly Munro, Ben Lomond rises to 974 metres and offers panoramic views over the loch and the surrounding landscape. The climb is relatively straightforward, making it a popular choice for both experienced hikers and beginners. On a clear day, the summit rewards climbers with some of the best vistas in Scotland, stretching as far as the Arrochar Alps and the Isle of Arran.

If you prefer a shorter hike with equally impressive views, head to Duncryne Hill, affectionately known as ‘The Dumpling’. This small but prominent hill near Gartocharn offers a quick ascent and a spectacular view of Loch Lomond’s southern section, with its islands scattered across the water. It’s a favourite spot for photographers, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the loch is bathed in golden light.

View of Loch Lomond from the Dumpling

Activities and Water Adventures

Loch Lomond offers countless opportunities for water-based activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Several operators around the loch provide equipment rentals and guided tours, making it easy for visitors to get out on the water. For something unique, you can even take a scenic flight over the loch with the Loch Lomond Seaplane, offering a bird’s-eye view of this iconic landscape.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider a leisurely boat cruise or a ride on one of the waterbuses that connect various villages and attractions around the loch. These cruises provide a unique perspective of Loch Lomond’s beauty, with commentary on its history and wildlife.

Cruise Loch Lomond

Road Trips and Scenic Drives

Driving along the loch’s western shore on the A82 offers one of Scotland’s most scenic road trips. This route winds from Balloch to Tarbet, passing through charming villages, forests, and viewpoints. For a detailed guide to this journey, check out my Loch Lomond road trip, which highlights the best stops, including picnic spots and walking trails.

With so many incredible lochs to explore, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, adventurers, and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you want to paddle across calm waters, hike up a mountain for breathtaking views, or immerse yourself in centuries of history, this region has it all. So, where will your next adventure begin?

Balmaha, Loch Lomond

Thanks for reading

Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.

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