Peter Irvine’s Scotland the best
Lochs we love
There’s no better day out than a peaceful stroll around a pretty loch. Here are four beauties Loch Maree
A832 between Kinlochewe and Gairloch. Dotted with islands covered in Scots pine, one hiding some of the best examples of Viking graves and, apparently, a money tree in their midst. 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. Aultroy Visitor Centre Kinlochewe), fine walks from lochside car parks, among the largest original Scots pine woodlands in the West Highlands.
Loch an Eilean Glen Finglas Reservoir
A fine Trossachs loch to walk to. Although it’s man-made, it’s a real beauty, surrounded by soft green hills and the odd burn bubbling in. Approach from car park of the rotunda visitor centre on the A821 before Brig o’ Turk (two and three-mile circular walks), or from Brig o’ Turk itself (0.6 miles), then join trails. It’s about three miles to the head of the loch and 14 miles on the Mell Trail round the hill or seven miles to Balquhidder: a walk across the heart of Scotland. Ranger board gives details.
Loch Ken
Between Castle Douglas & New Galloway·(lochken.co.uk), Loch Ken is long and thin. On spring days it shimmers and lots of people boat and surf and hang out; this is a loch of life. Marina, holiday park and Galloway Activity Centre all thrive on its banks. Then there’s New Galloway. Many trails (and deer) around. And the glorious kites!