Top 20 Lakes in the Northwest Highlands

The Northwest Highlands are home to many stunning lochs. Loch Maree is often described as a hidden gem, known for its clear waters, numerous islands, and ancient pinewoods of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Another beautiful option is Loch Assynt, dramatically set beneath mountains like Canisp and Quinag, featuring the iconic Ardvreck Castle ruins. For breathtaking vistas, consider the Coigach Peninsula Scenic Road, which offers stunning views of Loch Lurgainn and Loch Bad a' Ghaill.

Yes, several lochs in the region boast rich history. Loch Shiel is historically important as the heartland of the 1745 Jacobite Rising, with the Glenfinnan Monument nearby. The Isle of Maree in Loch Maree contains the remains of an ancient 8th-century chapel. Additionally, Loch Assynt features the romantic 16th-century ruins of Ardvreck Castle, while Loch Ma Stac has ruins on the slopes of Meall a Chràthaich.

The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the Loch Shiel Lakeside Gravel Track or the scenic Coigach Peninsula Scenic Road. Hiking is popular, with trails like the one leading to Loch a' Choire Dubh to Suilven Summit, offering challenging climbs and rewarding views. Many lochs also provide opportunities for picnics and swimming. For more extensive cycling routes, explore the Cycling in the Northwest Highlands guide, or for mountain biking, check out MTB Trails in the Northwest Highlands.

Absolutely. Many lochs offer gentle trails and picnic spots suitable for families. The Loch Achaidh na h-Inich viewpoint, for instance, has a beautiful hiking trail through woodlands perfect for a family stroll and picnics by the water. The Loch Shiel Lakeside Gravel Track is also suitable for cycling with children, offering places to stop and swim.

For a challenging experience, the trail from Loch a' Choire Dubh to Suilven Summit is highly recommended, featuring a steep ascent to an iconic mountain. The area around Loch Hourn is known for its wild character, with an undulating path leading to Ladhar Bheinn, part of the challenging Cape Wrath Trail. You can find more demanding routes in the Mountain Hikes in the Northwest Highlands guide.

The Northwest Highlands boast diverse natural features. Loch Maree is famous for its over 60 islands, including a rare island-within-an-island. The loch is also a haven for wildlife like the black-throated diver bird and is bordered by the ancient pinewoods of Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve. Loch Allt an Daraich, a small mountain loch, offers a serene atmosphere within the Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve, providing a chance to cool off on warm days.

The best time to visit the lakes in the Northwest Highlands is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, days are longer, and the midges are less prevalent, especially in May and early June. This period is ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the scenic beauty.

Yes, several lochs are close to notable landmarks. The Glenfinnan Monument, commemorating the Jacobite Rising, stands proudly near Loch Shiel, which is also famous for the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Loch Assynt is overlooked by the dramatic ruins of Ardvreck Castle. For stunning panoramic views, the Loch Achaidh na h-Inich viewpoint offers beautiful perspectives across the lake and woodlands.

The terrain around the lakes in the Northwest Highlands is incredibly varied and dramatic. You'll find extensive freshwater lochs nestled among rugged mountains, ancient woodlands, and open moorland. Some areas feature challenging, rocky ascents, while others offer gentler, undulating paths or gravel tracks suitable for cycling. The region is characterized by its wild and remote beauty.

While many areas are remote, some locations offer facilities. Kinloch Hourn, at the end of the road to Loch Hourn, serves as a gateway to the wilds of Knoydart and has a cafe. Larger settlements like Ullapool or those on the Isle of Mull, such as Tobermory Harbour, provide more extensive amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation.

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views and the sense of peace and isolation offered by the lochs. Many enjoy the rewarding feeling of reaching summits after challenging hikes, with incredible vistas as their reward. The opportunity for picnics by the water, swimming in clear lochs, and exploring ancient historical sites also contribute to a memorable experience. The diverse landscapes, from ancient pinewoods to dramatic mountain backdrops, are frequently highlighted as major attractions.