High5: On the waterfront
Loch Ness, Drumnadrochit
Mention the word ‘loch’ and instantly images of Loch Ness spring to mind! Visitors flock to the shores of Loch Ness every year hoping to catch a glimpse of the elusive monster Nessie. But there is more to this famous body of water than a fabled beastie. Loch Ness contains more water than all the lakes of England and Wales combined, making it the largest by volume in the UK. As well as enjoying a cruise up and down the loch, you can also walk, run and cycle around it on the Loch Ness 360° trail. But if you want to just stop and admire the breathtaking views, that’s OK too!
Loch Maree, Wester Ross
Set up in 1951, Beinn Eighe and Loch Maree Islands is the UK’s oldest National Nature Reserve and offers a spectacular gateway to the rugged beauty of Wester Ross. The islands are scattered across Loch Maree. The area is famed for its remnants of ancient Caledonian pine forest. More fragments can be found on over 60 islands scattered across the loch. Scottish Natural Heritage manages the reserve.
Lochindorb, Grantown-on-Spey
Lochindorb is a freshwater loch near Grantown-on-Spey and is overlooked by the Cairngorm mountains. It is a popular spot for fly-fishing (with permission) and bird watching. On an island in the loch are the ruins of Lochindorb castle, believed to date back to the 13th century.
Loch Assynt, Sutherland
Loch Assynt is a freshwater loch near Lochinver with excellent fishing – both bank and boat fishing – for salmon and brown trout among others (check for permits). The loch is also famous for the ruins of Ardvreck Castle which commands a picturesque spot on the edge of the loch and can be quite easily reached from the A837 road.
Loch Insh, near Kincraig
Home to Loch Insh Outdoor Centre, you’ll discover 14 acres of stunning native woodlands situated on the shores of the loch in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. There are lots of activities on land and on the water whether you are active and outdoorsy or just want to relax and soak up the views. Sailing lessons, among other courses, are available.