10 Amazing Loch Lomond Facts

July 23, 2024

Welcome to Stuckgowan Estates, where luxury holidays meet the beauty of Loch Lomond. Nestled in the landscapes of southern Scotland, our properties, Stuckgowan and Stuckdarach, offer a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure around Loch Lomond. Loch Lomond is a freshwater loch that forms part of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Just an hour’s drive from Glasgow, Loch Lomond is surrounded by stunning scenery and history, making it a must-visit destination. Keep reading to discover 10 amazing Loch Lomond facts that will inspire you to explore this beautiful area.

Loch Lomond aerial view at sunrise on an Autumn day near Tarbet. — Beautiful Loch Lomond aerial views at sunrise on an Autumn day near Tarbet.

1. Why it’s called Loch Lomond

Originally named Loch Leamhain, which translates to ‘elm water’ after the River Leven, Loch Lomond’s modern name has an interesting origin. Many believe that the name ‘Lomond’ comes from the Scots Gaelic word “laom,” meaning beacon, referring to the nearby mountain Ben Lomond, also known as Beacon Mountain.

2. The song

Loch Lomond gained international fame through the song ‘The Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond’, first published in 1841. The lyrics, “O ye’ll tak’ the high road and I’ll tak’ the low road and I’ll be in Scotland a’fore ye”, are often perceived as romantic. However, they actually reference the Jacobite Rising of 1745, a historical event involving a revolt against the British monarchy.

3. The Loch Lomond Monster

While Loch Ness is famous for its mythical monster, Loch Lomond also has its own legendary creature. Numerous sightings of a Loch Lomond Monster, resembling a plesiosaur or large crocodile, have been reported over the years. The loch’s huge size and depth give an air of mystery to these tales, sparking curiosity and wonder among visitors.

4. Size and shape

Loch Lomond is a ribbon lake, given this name due to its long and narrow shape, stretching 36 kilometres in length and up to 8 kilometres in width. One of our favourite Loch Lomond facts is that Loch Lomond holds the title of the largest loch by surface area in Great Britain and the second largest by volume, following Loch Ness. Together with Lochs Awe, Morar and Shiel, Loch Lomond contains roughly one-third of all the lake water in Scotland. Its impressive depth of 190 meters could easily cover iconic structures such as the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Blackpool Tower or two Big Bens!

Aerial view of Balmaha Scottish village at Loch Lomond. — Aerial view of Balmaha a Scottish village on the banks of Loch Lomond.

5. The big screen

The 1953 US film ‘The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms‘ mentions the Loch Lomond Monster, connecting the loch to the world of mythical creatures. This reference highlights the loch’s popularity and its role in popular culture.

6. Loch Lomond islands

Loch Lomond is home to 22 islands and 27 islets, many with names beginning with “Inch,” meaning island. These islands each have unique stories, for example, Inchmurrin is the largest freshwater loch island in Great Britain and Inchcailloch, both accessible to visitors, offering beautiful views. Inchconnachan is known for its resident wallaby population, adding an unexpected twist to the loch’s wildlife.

Panoramic sight from Conic Hill, Balmaha, village on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond in the council area of Stirling, Scotland. — The view from Conic Hill, Balmaha, a village on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond.

7. The Ice Age

At just 27 feet (8 meters) above sea level, Loch Lomond became a freshwater loch at the end of the last Ice Age. This took place around 10,000 years ago. Before this it was a sea loch, similar to Loch Long today, highlighting the loch’s history.

8. Fish species

Loch Lomond is teeming with life, hosting 15 native fish species, more than any other loch in Scotland. Among these is the powan, a rare species found in only a few UK lochs and tarns, showcasing the loch’s biodiversity.

fishing woman, Loch Venachar, Trossachs, Scotland. — Loch Lomond is the largest expanse of fresh water in the UK and has the largest variety of fish in the National Park.

9. Stuckgowan Estates

The Stuckgowan Estate at Loch Lomond spans 34 acres of traditional Scottish hillside and is notable for its diverse ecosystem. This includes one of Scotland’s tallest trees. A giant redwood Sequoia standing over 50 meters tall and estimated to be around 170 years old. The estate’s land is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its variety of plants, fungi and wildlife, including various bird species and red deer.

10. Mountains and Munros

Surrounded by mountains and munros, Loch Lomond’s landscape is dominated by Ben Lomond, standing at 974 meters. One of Scotland’s most popular climbs, Ben Lomond attracts over 30,000 hikers each year, offering panoramic views at the summit.

View of Loch Lomond from the top of Ben Lomond on a sunny day. — View of Loch Lomond from the top of Ben Lomond on a cloudy day.

There you have it, 10 amazing Loch Lomond facts. Ready to explore the wonders of Loch Lomond? Book your stay at Stuckgowan Estates luxurious Loch Lomond properties, Stuckgowan (sleeps 19) and Stuckdarach (sleeps 12). With easy access throughout the year, including winter, we can organise airport transfers and provide personal hosts to support your holiday. Conor and Sammie, our dedicated team members living on the estate, are ready to greet and assist you. Discover the beauty and history of Loch Lomond with a stay at Stuckgowan Estates.