The Scottish landscape draws a great number of visitors each year (over three million international travellers visit the country each year) and with a great many doing so for the stunning array of lochs. For some, these serene waters are sights of majesty, while others journey through the highlands to explore them, bringing their kayaks and paddleboards along, or simply wanting to swim and bathe in the pristine environment.
If you’re interested in visiting the highlands to find and explore some of the most beautiful waters the UK has to offer, then here are seven of the best lochs for watersport enthusiasts.
Loch Lubnaig
Nestled between the Scottish mountains, Ben Ledi and Ben Vane, Loch Lubnaig is a small, freshwater loch that is hailed by many as the finest wild swimming destination in the country. Its popularity can partly be attributed to the ease of accessibility by both car and bicycle but those who have visited will know that it is the backdrop of trees and mountains, as well as the clear waters, that make it so special.
Loch Ard
If you want to swim and paddle in what feels like a fairytale location, then Loch Ard is your destination. This beguiling water is undeniably picturesque and is found in Trossachs National Park. The water is surrounded by a number of forest trails, with a number being dedicated sculpture trails for families to enjoy.
Loch Coruisk
At the foot of the Black Cuillin can be found Loch Coruisk. This magical loch even has its own mythical creatures, known as kelpie, rivalling the popularity of Nessie. For watersports enthusiasts, however, the waterscape’s tranquillity makes for a beautiful paddleboarding destination, with nearby fairy pools being popular spots for wild swimming too.
Loch Ness
Home to the original Scottish monster, Loch Ness is a large and beautiful body of water that, alongside being a popular tourist spot, is celebrated among watersport communities. Each year, the area holds its well-celebrated Monster Swim, seeing a great many individuals plunge into the chilly waters to race.
Loch Lomond
If it’s a wild swimming race you’re after, however, then Loch Lomond is the obvious destination. Home to the world-famous Great Scottish Swim, this iconic waterscape offers 24 miles of clearwater to explore, stretching through some of the most idyllic Scottish environments in the country’s south.
Loch A’an
Hidden in the Cairngorms, Loch A’an, also known as Loch Avon, is a popular destination for kayakers and paddleboarders, with the water being not only set against a majestic backdrop but also leading to the River Avon, offering the opportunity for longer and more exciting adventures.
Loch Etchachan
While this small loch is unlikely to persuade watersports enthusiasts with equipment to carry their load to its remote location, Loch Etchachan draws many wild swimmers to its water. This is because it is Scotland’s highest loch. Its remoteness makes it difficult to access but many see the journey as a pilgrimage, taking to swim in the water as a reward for the challenging trek through the Cairngorms.
