Peter Irvine’s Scotland the best
Lochs we love
If you’re looking for a day trip with a difference, you can’t go far wrong exploring a beautiful loch Loch Maree Located on the A832 between Kinlochewe and Gairloch, Loch Maree is dotted with islands covered in Scots pine, with one even hiding some of the best examples of Viking graves. Easily viewed from the road which follows its length for nine miles, Beinn Eighe rises behind you and the omniscient presence of Slioch is opposite. Stop by the Aultroy Visitor Centre or follow the fine walks from the lochside car parks. Loch an Eilean This enchanted loch is in the heart of the Rothiemurchus Forest, and provides a beautiful three-mile walk along the banks. Allow at least an hour and a half to complete the walk and don’t forget your camera – filled with Scots pine, the landscape is picture perfect. Glen Finglas Reservoir Although the reservoir is man-made, it’s a real beauty, surrounded by soft green hills and the odd burn, and makes for a lovely afternoon walk. Approach from the visitor centre on the A821 before Brig o’ Turk then join the trails to walk about 5km to the head of the loch. Loch Ken Sitting between Castle Douglas and New Galloway, this long and thin loch shimmers in the sunshine. Lots of people visit to sail, surf and simply hang out, and the Galloway Activity Centre provides lots of activities – as well as a coffee shop. Keep an eye out for deer on the surrounding trails. Loch Muick With Lochnagar rising above the surface, this body of water near Ballater provides a three-hour walking route with open aspect views and the chance to spot grazing deer. Located at the head of the road off the B976, there is a car park and visitor centre less than a mile from the waterside. Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99